Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Pennsylvania
Change of ownership question
The landlord I signed a 1-yr lease with in May, 2005 is selling the property to another guy. The new guy mentioned that I would have to sign a new lease with him and that he was planning on raising the rent, and making me pay for water, sewage, and garbage (which the previous landlord paid) and I would be signing a 1-yr. lease with him.
I have NO interest in staying in this place for another year, I was looking forward to moving out in 6 months.
Can he do this? I thought that when the ownership of the property changed hands, the lease had to be honored. Wouldn't the new owner be breaking the lease agreement?
And also, what happens to my security deposit? Does the previous owner pay it to me now, or does it transfer to the new owner and he pays it to me when I move out?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Change of ownership question
As to your new landlord's request, simply put, he can't do it...if he would act in this manner he would be in breach of the lease agreement and you could file suit against him.
It is my recommendation that you immediately retain an attorney to discuss your alternatives to this matter. You can reach my office either by the web at www.AlleghenyAttorneys.com or by phone at 412.373.3130. I give free initial 1/2 hour consultations and also offer flat rates....I look forward to resolving this matter for you.
Sincerely,
Marc V. Taiani, Esquire
AAAL - Allegheny Attorneys At Law
www.Alleghenyattorneys.com
412.373.3130 or 412.731.0865