You’re having trouble with your landlord

The problem

Repairs that never happen, surprise bills, slow answers on consent, or a notice you don’t understand. Left alone, small problems become big ones: a business that can’t run properly, a sale that stalls, or a dispute that costs more than the original issue.

What I do about it

I read the lease to see who’s responsible for what, put the issue in writing clearly and calmly, and deal with the landlord or their property manager for you. Most problems get solved with the right request to the right person, with the lease clause attached.

What your landlord wants

A landlord wants rent paid, the building looked after and few surprises. Many problems come from a busy property manager rather than a bad landlord. Given a clear request that follows the lease, most will act.

Where everybody wins

Get the problem fixed and keep the relationship working, because you’ll probably be dealing with this landlord for years.

Common problems I hear about

• Repairs that don’t get done, or a fight over whose job a repair is.
• Additional rent bills that jump without explanation.
• Slow or refused consent to assign, sublet, renovate or put up signage.
• A demolition or redevelopment clause, or talk of the building being sold.
• A renewal offer that feels like a push to leave.

How I help

First, we read the lease together. A lot of disputes turn on one clause. Then we look at what’s on your side: how long you have left, what the space is worth to the landlord, whether you’d actually move, and what the market looks like.

Sometimes the best fix is a negotiated change to the lease. Sometimes it’s planning an exit on your terms.

I’m not a lawyer and won’t pretend to be one. If there’s a default notice, a lawsuit or anything with a deadline from the landlord’s lawyer, call a commercial lease lawyer first. I’m happy to help you find one and to work with them on the business side.

If the building is sold

A sale doesn’t usually end your lease. The new owner generally takes over the landlord’s side, including your rights. It’s still a good moment to check your lease for demolition or relocation clauses and to find out what the new owner plans.

Who owns your building explains why the type of owner matters.

Questions people ask

What can I do if my commercial landlord won’t do repairs?

Start with the lease, which sets out who repairs what. Put your request in writing and keep records. If it’s serious or urgent, talk to a commercial lease lawyer before withholding rent or taking other steps, because commercial tenants in BC have fewer statutory protections than residential tenants.