# Forfeiture of Tenancy

*Land Code Ch. 12, §§ 42–44*

## Definition

Forfeiture means the landlord can terminate the lease with immediate effect for serious contract breaches. It's the strongest action a landlord can take.

Grounds include: unpaid rent (more than one week after due date), unauthorized subletting, neglect of the apartment, use for criminal activity, or disturbances that continue after warning. The tenant has a "remedy period" — a chance to pay or fix the problem before forfeiture takes effect.

## Key points

- Immediate termination for serious contract breaches
- Grounds: unpaid rent, unauthorized subletting, neglect, crime, disturbances
- Tenant has a remedy period to fix the problem
- For rent arrears: pay within 3 weeks of warning
- Social services must be notified of forfeiture risk

## Practical tip

If you've received a forfeiture notice: act immediately. Pay any rent arrears or fix the problem within the remedy period. Contact social services if you need help.

## Legal basis

Land Code Ch. 12, §§ 42–44