Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Maryland

Am I bound to lease contract penalties after getting laid off?

I am currently in the 9th month of a 14 month apartment lease. I recently got laid off from my job. I share my apartment with a roommate who also got laid off from the same company.

The contract that I signed said that there was a lease breaking penalty that I would have to pay if I left before the 14 months were up. My question is: if I got laid off from my job, and I do not wish to look for a job in this area, am I still bound to pay the lease breaking penalty? If I move to another state because I don't want to work here, what can they do to me?

Also, if my roommate wishes to continue occupying the apartment, how will my leaving affect his contract (e.g. will he be responsible for paying my portion if I leave?)

Thank you very much!


Asked on 10/11/00, 4:10 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Re: Am I bound to lease contract penalties after getting laid off?

Unfortunately, unless there is an "escape clause" in your lease, the termination of your employment does not allow you to break your lease. If you leave owing rent, they will just go after your roommate, since each of you is responsible for the entire rent.

If your roommate decides to leave as well and the landlord thinks he/it can re-rent the property for more money, they might be willing to renegotiate the break penalty. Of course if your roommate wants to stay he can either get a new roommate or pay the entire rent.

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Answered on 11/06/00, 3:55 pm


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