What can I do if my landlord reneges on a lease offer?
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What can I do if my landlord reneges on a lease offer?
Landlord offered to renew our lease with a rental increase. Through real estate agent, we were provided with new lease, signed it, and emailed to agent. Then 5 days later the landlord emails us and tells us his situation has changed and has to sell the house. Agent says he didn’t “receive” the email but we have proof of sending in Gmail outbox and have made good faith decisions based on landlords renewal offer (purchase of mower, scheduling vacations when this lease expires) do we have any claim to sue for damages/ can we simply remain in the property and continue to pay?
Asked on June 5, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Connecticut
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
E-mailing the lease was not the best method with out acknowledgment of its receipt and now you know why. Mailing it wth certificate of mailing or by certified mail would have been better. Did the landlord sign it as well? It seems with what information I have here that you have an offer and acceptance and that the terms are agreed upon, etc., and that the agent of the landlord negotiated and facilitated the deal. The lease is a contract and it appears her that you have one that is binding. I would take what you have to a lawyer in the area and see where you wish to go from here. You could stay past the new lease's expiration but if the lease falls then you are considered a month to month tenant. Your landlord would then have to give you 30 days notice to leave and then evict you if you did not. It may be better to try and negotiate a new deal with the landlord. Good luck.
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