How Does Rent Abatement Work?

Have you ever been in a situation where you can't pay your rent? Maybe you've lost your job, are still recovering from the impact of COVID, or dealing with an unexpected financial emergency. Whatever the reason, if you can't pay your rent, you may be able to get some relief through a process called rent abatement.

In this guide, we’ll explain the process of rent abatement in commercial real estate and multi-family residential real estate.

What Is Rent Abatement?

Rent abatement is a legal process that allows tenants to stop paying rent, or to pay reduced rent, for a period of time. In most cases, rent abatement is only available if the tenant is experiencing financial hardship, or if there are problems with the rental unit that make it uninhabitable.

If you're facing eviction because you can't pay your rent, you might be able to use rent abatement to stay in your home. However, it's important to understand that rent abatement is not a long-term solution. Once the period of abatement is over, you will still be responsible for paying all of the back rent that you owe, plus any current and future rent payments.

If you're considering using rent abatement, it's important to talk to a lawyer or housing counselor first. They can help you understand the process and make sure that you meet all of the eligibility requirements.

How Rent Abatement Works

Rent abatement can be conducted in two ways. The first is through government intervention, as is often the case with natural disasters or other major events that make it difficult or impossible for renters to continue paying their rent. In these cases, the government may step in and provide financial assistance to help cover the cost of rent.

The second way rent abatement can occur is through negotiation between the landlord and tenant with respect to their leasing agreement. In some cases, a tenant may be able to convince their landlord to lower their rent for a period of time, either due to financial hardship or other extenuating circumstances. This is typically done on a case-by-case basis, and is not always successful.

Rentals In DE, MD, PA, FL, NJ, and NY

By now, you should have developed a fair idea about what rent abatement is and how it works. If you are in the market for a new rental and would like to know more about rent abatement, please contact the team at Milbrook Properties today. We have many real estate vacancies in the New York, New Jersey, Florida, and Mid-Atlantic markets.