The Real Estate Group Blog Understanding Tenant Bankruptcy

Relationships between landlords and tenants occasionally take unexpected turns. Tenants who were perfectly qualified when they were approved to rent can lose a job, get divorced, have illnesses, or any number of other situations which can impact their ability to fulfill their financial obligations. In these cases, they may turn to bankruptcy as a way to stave off creditors and reorganize or eliminate debts. The legal process of bankruptcy, while primarily concerned with the individual's financial status, can also have implications for the rental housing they occupy. What is Tenant Bankruptcy? Tenant bankruptcy refers to a scenario where a tenant facing significant financial challenges, files for bankruptcy protection. This filing is conducted under specific chapters of the bankruptcy code (most commonly Chapter 7 or Chapter 13) with the aim of restructuring or discharging debts. While this offers relief to the tenant, it inevitably impacts various aspects of their rental agreement and the landlord-tenant dynamic. Immediate Effects on the Landlord Upon filing for bankruptcy, an "automatic stay" is put into effect. This provision halts any ongoing legal actions against the tenant, including eviction proceedings or collection efforts by the landlord. This stay remains in place until the bankruptcy court grants relief or dismisses the case. Landlords are legally bound to comply with this stay, refraining from attempting to collect unpaid rent or evict the tenant during this period. It is important to note the distinction between "pre-petition" and "post-petition" debt. Pre-petition debts are those which are incurred prior to the filing of bankruptcy, while post-petition debts are those incurred afterward. Post-petition debts are not included in the stay, therefore a landlord whose tenant has included him or her in a bankruptcy action is not necessarily without recourse if the tenant continues to occupy the property beyond the date they file for bankruptcy protection. Impact on Lease Agreements The fate of the lease agreement depends on the type of bankruptcy filed. Under Chapter 7 bankruptcy, tenants often choose to surrender their lease, allowing them to discharge their rental obligations and vacate the property. Conversely, under Chapter 13 bankruptcy, tenants might aim to restructure their debts, including rental payments, to retain the property while catching up on arrears through a court-approved payment plan. The Landlord's Rights Landlords maintain certain rights even during a tenant's bankruptcy proceedings. While they cannot pursue collection or eviction actions during the automatic stay, they can file a motion with the bankruptcy court for relief from the stay. This motion, if approved, allows the landlord to resume eviction proceedings or pursue unpaid rent. Property Recovery and the Bankruptcy Estate If a tenant chooses to surrender the property or if the lease is terminated as a result of the bankruptcy, the landlord gains the right to reclaim the property. However, any outstanding debts owed by the tenant may be considered part of the bankruptcy estate, potentially impacting the amount the landlord can recover. Navigating the Process For landlords dealing with a tenant in bankruptcy, seeking legal counsel is crucial. Understanding the intricacies of bankruptcy law and how it affects their rights and obligations is essential to navigate the process effectively. Conclusion Tenant bankruptcy introduces complexities into the landlord-tenant relationship, impacting lease agreements, rent collection, and eviction proceedings. While the automatic stay offers protection to the tenant, it also provides an opportunity for landlords to seek relief and navigate the legal process to protect their interests. As with any legal matter, both landlords and tenants should seek professional guidance to comprehend their rights and responsibilities in the event of a tenant filing for bankruptcy. Effective communication, understanding legal implications, and seeking appropriate counsel are pivotal in managing these situations. Experienced property managers like those at The Real Estate Group understand what to do to protect the landlord's interests when tenants file bankruptcy. We have lawyers who specialize in all aspects of landlord and tenant law, including bankruptcy. Call us today to see why so many investment property owners think TREG is the RIGHT CHOICE for management of their income producing properties.