BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M
Conditional limitation clauses are provisions in commercial leases that impose certain conditions on the tenant’s use of the leased premises. These clauses typically restrict or limit the tenant’s ability to use the space for specific purposes unless certain conditions are met. In New York City (NYC), these clauses are subject to legal regulations, and drafting them correctly is important to ensure their enforceability. Here’s a guide to conditional limitation clauses in NYC commercial leases:
- Purpose of Conditional Limitation Clauses:
Conditional limitation clauses are used to regulate and control how the tenant uses the leased space. They may be designed to protect the landlord’s interests, maintain the building’s character, or comply with zoning and legal requirements.
- Specific Conditions:
Conditional limitation clauses should clearly outline the conditions that must be met for the tenant to engage in a certain activity or use the space for a particular purpose. These conditions might involve obtaining approvals, licenses, permits, or meeting specific operational standards.
- Compliance with Laws:
The clauses should explicitly state that the tenant must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and zoning ordinances related to the specified use.
- Landlord Approval:
The clauses may require the tenant to obtain the landlord’s prior written approval before engaging in the restricted activity. This ensures that the landlord has a say in how the space is used.
- Clarity and Specificity:
The language used in the clause should be clear, specific, and unambiguous. Ambiguities could lead to disputes later on.
- Consult Legal Professionals:
Given the complexity of NYC’s zoning laws and regulations, it’s advisable to consult with legal professionals who specialize in NYC real estate law when drafting conditional limitation clauses.
- Zoning and Land Use Compliance:
NYC has strict zoning regulations that dictate how properties can be used. Conditional limitation clauses should be crafted to ensure that the tenant’s proposed use is in compliance with these regulations.
- Negotiation:
During lease negotiations, both parties should discuss and negotiate the terms of conditional limitation clauses. Landlords and tenants should work together to ensure the clauses are fair and reasonable.
- Fairness and Balance:
Conditional limitation clauses should strike a balance between protecting the landlord’s interests and allowing the tenant to conduct their business effectively.
- Enforcement and Remedies:
The lease should outline the consequences of violating the conditional limitation clauses, including potential remedies for the landlord in case of non-compliance.
- Periodic Review:
Both parties should consider whether the conditions specified in the clause need to be reviewed periodically due to changes in laws, regulations, or the building’s environment.
Drafting and incorporating conditional limitation clauses in NYC commercial leases requires careful consideration of legal requirements, potential disputes, and the specific needs of the property and tenant. Collaborating with legal professionals can help ensure that these clauses are well-drafted, legally sound, and serve the interests of all parties involved.
Citations, References and Potentially Useful Resources for Further Information:
U.S. Constitution
New York State Constitution
Federal Securities Regulation
New York State Martin Act
New York Condominium Act
New York State Security Regulations
New York Business Corporation Law
New York Limited Liability Company Law
New York Uniform Partnership Act
Federal Internal Revenue Code
New York State Tax Laws, Rules & Regulations
New York City Tax Laws, Rules & Regulations
Winston Churchill Owners, Inc. v. Regents Real Estate Associates
Board of Managers of the Park Regis Condominium v. Park Regis Owners Corp.
Park Sutton Condominium v. 447 E. 57th St. LLC
28 E. 10th Street Corp. v. Veras
Riverside Syndicate, Inc. v. Munroe
Essex House Condominium v. Marks
The Parc Vendome Condominium v. Atkinson
54-56 Meserole Street Owners Corp. v. Rossi
The Beekman Regent Condominium v. Bottiglieri
Chelsea 19th LLC v. West 19th Street Realty LLC
ACRIS
New York Department of Finance
New York City Department of Buildings
New York City Bar Association
New York State Bar Association
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