Need to Break Lease Prior to Occupying

[gtetlow]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? PA
I'm a doctor and signed a lease but now want to get out of it (I found a better location and arrangement). I signed in February, paid my last month's rent and security deposit, and the lease is to begin on 7/1/14. What are the legal ramifications of breaking my lease and can I get my money back? I have considered double checking to make sure the location allows medical use, because this is the first time it would be a medical office. If paperwork needs to be filed, and I know none has been, then perhaps I could use this info to break my lease?

 

[justalayman]

Unless there is something within the lease that allows you to terminate it prior to the date of occupation, you are stuck with the lease.

What are the legal ramifications of breaking my lease and can I get my money back?

the possible ramifications are being liable for the entire lease. That would be reduced if the landlord is able to find a replacement tenant.

I have considered double checking to make sure the location allows medical use, because this is the first time it would be a medical office.

unless you made the contract contingent upon that issue, it doesn't matter if medical use is allowed there or not. It was up to you to determine if the tenement was able to be used for medical purposes.

 

[Gail in Georgia]

The legal ramification for breaking your lease is that you get sued for doing so. The idea that you get your money back for breaking a lease because you found a "better deal" is a misnomer.

Your best bet is to notify management you will attempt to find a suitable replacement for yourself to take over the lease by July 1st.

Gail