How much notice is reasonable

[Nycrenter2013]

There isn't any reference to show clause or reasonable notice to renew. We've retread the lease with a fine tooth comb. Nothing.

[crescent22]

How long did it take 2 years ago to get the lease approved by the condo board? If it took some time, you can use it to string him along- say you will accept and then withdraw it later and don't pay August or Sep rent.

[livingsinglenyc]

Originally Posted by crescent22

How long did it take 2 years ago to get the lease approved by the condo board? If it took some time, you can use it to string him along- say you will accept and then withdraw it later and don't pay August or Sep rent.

That is probably the reason why the landlord wants to know if you are renewing. It typically is a process to get someone approved so they want enough time to find a new tenant, get them approved, and get them to move in when you move out.

[aweitzm1]

I am currently looking for apts and the research I have come across indicate that renting from a co-op takes longer to rent because Board approval is necessary. That might be why he is starting to show the apt.

The management company of my current lease requires 60 days notice to be given if you do not plan on renewing the lease.

[crescent22]

OP said it's a condo, and if it is a condo where units are commonly rented out, the process is a sail through - approval is more like notification- all the condo has is right-of-first-refusal, which never happens.

[Kefir King]

NYCrenter,

Go over your lease agreement with the condo owner with a magnifying glass. Is there ANY mention of renewal, notice, right to show apartment, etc.?
You and he are bound by what is in that contract and by nothing else.

Remember, this works both ways...if there is no mention of his "right to show" then it does not exist.


Of course I think such a long time frame is unreasonable but on the other hand I think the words "unreasonable" and "landlord" are synonyms. This could all get ugly.

Now for brass tacks...do you want to stay? My guess is that you are not sure.

Our lease is up at the end of September. Our landlord started asking us to
commit to renewing (another 2 yr lease with a 6% increase) two months ago. Now
he states that if we don't let him know by next week

Now what exactly does he mean by "commit" and "let him know." If it is anything other than signing a new lease say "Yes, we will stay." You have committed to nothing.

In his defense, he is petrified of spending a single month without a rent check.


For others, the lesson is "Get it all in writing."