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How to Resolve Lease Disputes in Commercial Real Estate
How to Resolve Lease Disputes in Commercial Real Estate

How to Resolve Lease Disputes in Commercial Real Estate

From King Street storefronts to office spaces on Daniel Island, commercial leases are at the heart of Charleston’s growing businesses. But when something goes wrong—a missed rent payment, a dispute over repairs, or a sudden lease termination—the fallout can affect your bottom line fast.

Whether you own a retail property in Mount Pleasant or lease warehouse space near North Charleston, lease disputes can quickly become complex and costly. That’s where Buxton & Collie, LLC comes in. As experienced Charleston real estate lawyers, we help landlords and tenants protect their rights and resolve disagreements without unnecessary delays.

Common Lease Disputes in the Charleston Market

Lease disputes come in all forms, especially in a dynamic market like Charleston. We frequently see conflicts involving

  • Rent increases or nonpayment in fast-changing areas like Avondale and West Ashley
  • Maintenance or repair obligations in shared-use buildings downtown
  • Lease terminations triggered by redevelopment in neighborhoods like Upper Peninsula or East Central
  • Disagreements over exclusive-use clauses in commercial hubs like Towne Centre or Folly Road corridors
  • Property use and zoning compliance near historic districts and waterfront areas

The first step in addressing any dispute is reviewing the lease itself. These documents often contain detailed terms that govern everything from utilities to signage—and many Charleston-area leases include special provisions for flood risks, historic preservation, or coastal setbacks.

Preventing Lease Disputes Starts With a Well-Crafted Lease

The best way to avoid a lease dispute is to get it right from the beginning. At Buxton & Collie, we help clients craft clear, customized leases for spaces in places like the Cigar Factory downtown, I’On in Mount Pleasant, the Pacific Box & Crate campus, and mixed-use developments along Morrison Drive.

From defining repair obligations to planning for flood risk or zoning limits, we build in the details that prevent confusion down the line. Whether you’re leasing retail near Upper King, office space in the Historic District, or a restaurant pad in Avondale, our goal is the same: anticipate issues, protect your investment, and keep business running smoothly.

Why You Should Contact a Real Estate Lawyer Early

It’s tempting to wait and “see how things play out,” but lease disputes rarely fix themselves. Reaching out to a Charleston real estate attorney early can help you:

  • Understand your legal rights and obligations under South Carolina law
  • Avoid missteps that could limit your options later
  • Begin building a strategy—whether you’re hoping to negotiate, enforce, or exit the lease

Our team works with both landlords and tenants across Charleston County, including businesses in North Charleston, Johns Island, and Daniel Island.

Negotiation Before Litigation

Most lease disputes don’t need to end up in court. In fact, many of our clients resolve their issues through strategic negotiation or mediation—saving time, money, and relationships. At Buxton & Collie, we help clients:

  • Open productive dialogue with the other party
  • Explore creative solutions that avoid litigation
  • Draft or revise lease terms to prevent future conflict

If you’re renting space in a popular mixed-use area like Shem Creek or the Neck District, preserving business relationships while protecting your investment is key. We know how to keep the conversation moving forward.

Buxton & Collie: A Charleston Firm for Charleston Businesses

We’re not just legal advisors—we’re part of the community. Our clients include property owners leasing space in downtown Charleston, restaurateurs in Park Circle, and developers managing projects from James Island to Cainhoy.

With decades of combined experience, we bring insight, strategy, and a steady hand to lease disputes—no matter how complex.

Ready to Resolve Your Lease Dispute?

Whether you’re facing challenges as a landlord in Mount Pleasant or as a tenant in a mixed-use space off East Bay Street, Buxton & Collie is here to help you move forward.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a Charleston real estate lawyer who understands the local market and knows how to protect your interests.