From hidden CAM charges to eviction disputes, our Los Angeles lease attorneys protect landlords and tenants from costly surprises.
One-sided terms, hidden fees, and pressure to sign fast in markets like DTLA, Hollywood, and Santa Monica leave both landlords and tenants exposed.
One wrong clause can sink you. From uncapped rent hikes and costly repair obligations to personal guarantees and triple net charges, it’s easy to sign into a financial trap without realizing it.
When disputes hit, the fallout is brutal. Businesses get forced to shut down. Landlords lose months of rent and face expensive litigation. Tenants get stuck paying penalties they can’t afford.
Even experienced business owners miss critical details that later cost them thousands. Lease conflicts spiral fast into eviction proceedings, lawsuits, and prolonged vacancies.
That’s why we step in – to stop problems before they start, and resolve disputes quickly and cost-effectively when they do.
Forget boilerplate forms – we draft airtight leases with clear language on rent, repairs, and exits so problems don’t come back to bite you.
We uncover traps like uncapped rent hikes, CAM charges, and one-sided repairs – then negotiate fair terms that protect your business.
Whether it’s over payments, repairs, or lease terms, we resolve disputes quickly – through negotiation if possible, litigation if necessary.
Our process escalates from demand letters to court action, keeping your cash flow secure and setting the right precedent for other tenants.
We handle every step of eviction so delays, errors, or loopholes don’t cost you more. We also defend tenants against wrongful eviction.
We negotiate exits and enforce default remedies so you can leave a bad lease without devastating costs or ongoing liability.
We audit every expense line, challenge inflated bills, and force compliance so you only pay your fair share.
We draft protective agreements that give tenants flexibility while preserving landlords’ control – preventing future disputes.
We guide you through deadlines, valuations, and negotiations so you don’t lose out on securing valuable property.
We resolve problems with agencies early, protecting your lease and keeping your business running without disruption.
We fight improper claims, enforce California law, and get your deposit back where it belongs.
As your needs evolve, we restructure lease terms so they support growth instead of holding you back.
When you hire Borna Houman Law, you work directly with me – not junior associates or case managers. Every lease, dispute, and negotiation gets my full attention.
I built this firm to be the opposite of the big, high-volume shops that treat clients like files. My approach is simple:
From reviewing a lease clause that could cost you thousands, to evicting a tenant who refuses to pay, my job is to shield you from the hidden traps of California commercial real estate law – and give you the confidence to move forward knowing you’re protected.
The three primary types of commercial leases are gross leases, net leases, and percentage leases. In a gross lease, the tenant pays a fixed rent while the landlord covers property expenses like taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Net leases require tenants to pay base rent plus some or all property expenses, with triple net leases placing most expense responsibilities on the tenant.
Commercial tenants in California typically have only three days to respond to a notice to pay rent or quit. This is significantly shorter than residential eviction timeframes and requires immediate action to protect your rights. The specific timeframe may vary depending on the type of notice and the nature of the alleged lease violation.
Rent increases during a lease term are only allowed if specifically permitted by the lease agreement. Many commercial leases include rent escalation clauses tied to Consumer Price Index changes or predetermined percentage increases. Without such provisions in the lease, landlords generally cannot increase rent until the lease term expires.
Breaking a commercial lease early typically results in liability for remaining rent payments unless the lease includes early termination provisions. Tenants may negotiate buyout agreements with landlords or attempt to assign or sublease the space with landlord approval. The specific consequences depend on the lease terms and the circumstances surrounding the early termination.
Repair and maintenance responsibilities depend entirely on the specific terms of the lease agreement. In gross leases, landlords typically handle most maintenance, while net leases often place these responsibilities on tenants. The lease should clearly specify which party is responsible for different types of repairs and maintenance issues.
CAM charges are fees that tenants pay for their proportionate share of common area expenses in multi-tenant properties. These charges typically cover maintenance, cleaning, landscaping, and utilities for shared spaces like hallways, parking lots, and lobbies. Tenants have the right to audit CAM charges to ensure accuracy and compliance with lease terms.
Subleasing or assignment rights depend on the specific provisions in your lease agreement. Many commercial leases require landlord approval for any assignment or subletting arrangements. Even when allowed, these transactions must comply with lease terms and may require formal assignment agreements.
Actual eviction occurs when a landlord physically removes a tenant from the premises through legal proceedings. Constructive eviction happens when a landlord’s actions or failures make the property unusable, effectively forcing the tenant to leave. Both types of eviction must follow proper legal procedures and provide appropriate notice to the tenant.
Commercial lease disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. Many leases include dispute resolution clauses that specify the required process for handling conflicts. Early intervention through skilled legal representation often leads to more cost-effective resolutions than lengthy court proceedings.
Key provisions to review include rent structure and escalation clauses, maintenance and repair responsibilities, use restrictions, and termination conditions. Pay special attention to personal guarantee requirements, assignment restrictions, and expense allocation provisions. Understanding these terms before signing can prevent costly disputes and unexpected financial obligations.
Commercial leases carry risks that can cost landlords and tenants thousands if not caught early. Our attorneys draft and review agreements that safeguard your interests and prevent costly disputes.
Call (213) 329-6176 or fill out the form now to schedule your free consultation.
The sooner we get involved, the safer your lease, your business, and your future.
