Ending fixed-term tenancy, is tenant liable for rent?

Our Experts Answer:

Technically, a tenant breaking a fixed term tenancy is responsible for rent up to the time a replacement tenant starts paying rent.  At that point his fixed term liability ends.

However, it appears you took an opportunity, after the tenant had moved out, to improve the property.  You say it was with the tenant’s agreement and you agreed to repay the rent for that period.  The problem is that nothing was done to market the property during that “down time”, and you finished up with the advantage of a more marketable property.

Whether the tenant is liable for the 4 weeks’ rent will depend on the specific facts of your case and whether the tenant agreed to (a) no marketing while the upgrade was in progress and (b) continuing liability after the work was completed.

If the facts indicate that the tenant surrendered possession to you, you may find that he is not liable for the 4 weeks’ rent.  You can’t have your cake and eat it!

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