Jasper, FL asked in Landlord - Tenant for Florida

Q: My business was affected by Covid 19 so I moved out of my office on 6/30. Landlord says I still owe rent until he can

find another tennant. I have not been paying and am concerned. What are my options?

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2 Lawyer Answers
Barry W. Kaufman
Barry W. Kaufman
Answered
  • Jacksonville, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: Covid doesn't give you an excuse for not paying. Suppose you lost business for any other reason - you'd be in the exact same position. You owe rent until your lease is expired or (if you have vacated the space and returned possession to the landlord) he finds a new tenant.

If you signed a personal guaranty on the Lease, you can be held personally liable.

Bruce Alexander Minnick agrees with this answer

Bruce Alexander Minnick
Bruce Alexander Minnick
Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Tallahassee, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: Whatever temporary rent payment protection that was contained in the CARES Act (which has expired) did not affect commercial rents. Only residential rents.

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