I was 17 when I signed my lease, 2 weeks before my 18th birthday. Now I want to move out, just wondering if the lease is even legal to begin with.
2007-12-31 07:20:30 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Business & Finance ➔ Renting & Real Estate
Not if you're in the United States. A minor cannot commit to a contract. But I would consult a lawyer just to figure out details and whatnot.
However, I don't see why the owner would let you sign his contract unless you lied about your age, or he trusted you and did you a huge favor which you owe back to him by finishing off your lease. So is it legal for you to leave - yes, is it ethical or responsible - no.
EDIT - "Bostonia" makes a good point. Although it is not legal for a minor to enter a contract, this could be seen as a necessity, in which case minors CAN enter a contract. It's why places like restaurants and other places can enter into a contract with minors to make them pay for food. So, you may be out of luck. But like I said before, the responsible thing would be to finish off your contract so that you don't anger anyone, or spend more money on lawyers, and so that you have a reference for future rentals.
2007-12-31 07:28:10 · answer #1 · answered by sunny-d alright! 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Although you generally need to be 18 to enter into a binding contract, there are exceptions for necessities of life. Shelter is a necessity without question so it's VERY likely that the courts would hold you to the terms of the contract.
If this was a contract for a vacation rental it would be different but if it's your primary residence you will very probably be held to the terms of what you signed.
Another thing to consider is how long it has been since you turned 18. If you are trying to void a contract very shortly after reaching the age of majority you may have some luck, but if it has been several months since your birthday the courts could hold that you have affirmed the original agreement by failing to void it shortly after reaching majority.
Consult with a local attorney to see where you stand, but don't be surprised if he tells you the same thing that I have.
2007-12-31 07:41:02 · answer #2 · answered by Bostonian In MO 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋
I wonder if by staying in the apartment past your 18th birthday, you affirmed the contract....
2007-12-31 07:38:07 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
you have to be 18 to sign a legal contract. Did your landlord know how young you were? If you told him your correct age than he has no recourse and you can disregard the lease and move. You are lucky he didnt find out before you decided to move or he could have evicted you.
2007-12-31 07:28:50 · answer #4 · answered by Diane M 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not likely, but it may depend on your state. You could be in trouble for falsely representing yourself as old enough to sign a lease, though. You never know what a landlord will pull.
It would be better to attempt to end your rental amicably, though.
2007-12-31 07:28:41 · answer #5 · answered by Phoenix: Princess of Cupcakes 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Nope. You were not of legal age and can legally change your mind.
2007-12-31 07:24:47 · answer #6 · answered by Tim 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋