What landlords and tenants need to know about the kick-out clause

On Behalf of | May 22, 2025 | Property Law

Commercial leases are complex agreements that require careful consideration of various terms and conditions. One such term is the kick-out clause, which can have various consequences for landlords and tenants. What does this clause mean for those looking to navigate the complexities of commercial leases in Texas?

Understanding the kick-out clause in commercial leases

The kick-out clause is also known as the termination or performance clause. It is a provision in commercial leases that enables landlords to regain control of their property under specific circumstances.

The clause typically includes conditions such as minimum sales or revenue requirements that the tenant must meet to avoid lease termination. As a result, landlords and tenants must carefully review and negotiate the terms of the kick-out clause to ensure their interests are protected.

Considerations for landlords

Landlords have significant interests at stake when it comes to the kick-out clause. Among their considerations are:

  • Landlords can use the kick-out clause to terminate a lease if the tenant is not meeting specific performance metrics.
  • They can also use the clause to regain control of the property and re-lease it to a more profitable tenant.
  • The clause can also help landlords minimize financial losses and protect their investment in the property.

The kick-out clause can provide a safeguard against unprofitable or underperforming tenants. Thus, landlords must consider the terms of the clause to ensure it is enforceable and compliant with Texas law.

Implications for tenants

Tenants must also consider the kick-out clause when negotiating a commercial lease. Common implications include:

  • Tenants may be required to meet performance metrics, such as sales targets or customer traffic numbers, to avoid lease termination.
  • They may also have a requirement to provide regular financial reports to landlords to demonstrate compliance with the kick-out clause.
  • Their failure to meet the conditions of the clause can result in lease termination and potential financial losses.

The kick-out clause can have significant implications for their business and financial stability. Therefore, tenants can mitigate the risks associated with the kick-out clause by reviewing the lease agreement and negotiating favorable terms.

Navigating the complexities of commercial leases

The kick-out clause is a critical component of commercial leases in Texas, and it can have far-reaching impacts. As such, seeking legal guidance may help landlords and tenants better protect their rights while managing the intricacies of commercial leases.

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