Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

I did not sign my lease. Can I be penalized for ''breaking'' it?

I signed a one year lease in St. Petersburg, FL. and lived in my apartment for the full term. Near the end of the one year term, my landlord asked me if I was going to renew my lease and I faxed them a letter of intent to renew. The landlord then taped the lease documents on my front door for me to sign and return. At some point, the lease got tucked away in a drawer and still has not been signed. I would like to leave earlier than the lease stipulates and I'm wondering if it's possible since I did not sign the lease but did sign a letter of intent to renew.


Asked on 1/20/03, 3:36 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Alexander M. Rosenfeld Rosenfeld & Stein, P.A.

Re: I did not sign my lease. Can I be penalized for ''breaking'' it?

I echo the advice given by Mr. Gilbert.

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Answered on 1/20/03, 7:19 pm
Peter Gonzalez Sanchez-Medina, Gonzalez, Quesada, Lage, Crespo, Gomez & MachadoLLP

Re: I did not sign my lease. Can I be penalized for ''breaking'' it?

You are not legally bound by the second lease if you did not sign it. You are essentially on a month-to-month tenancy and may leave by giving the landlord written notice of your intention to vacate the premises. Should you have any further questions regarding this matter, please call or write my office.

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Answered on 1/20/03, 3:39 pm
Randall Gilbert Gilbert & Caddy P.A.

Re: I did not sign my lease. Can I be penalized for ''breaking'' it?

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney�s individualized advice for you. By reading the �Response� to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

RESPONSE:

I recommend, and caution you, to see a local attorney and show them exactly what you did sign before you leave. The letter of intent may just be enough to bind you to the second lease agreement.

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Answered on 1/20/03, 4:07 pm


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