What is rent abatement?

Rent abatement is a legal term that refers to the partial or full forgiveness of rent payments for a specified period of time. This can occur when a tenant experiences a significant problem or issue with the property that makes it uninhabitable or creates a substantial inconvenience.

Examples of situations that could result in rent abatement include:

• Major structural issues with the property such as a leaking roof or faulty plumbing
• Health and safety hazards such as mold growth or pest infestations
• Noise disturbances or other disruptions caused by neighboring tenants or construction activities
• Inaccessible amenities or facilities that were promised in the lease agreement

In these cases, tenants may be entitled to a reduction in rent or a complete waiver of rent payments until the issue is resolved. Rent abatement is typically granted by a court or through a formal agreement between the landlord and tenant.

It is important for tenants to document any problems or issues with the property and to notify their landlord in writing in order to pursue rent abatement. Failure to do so could result in the tenant being held responsible for full rent payments despite the issues with the property.