sublease: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

In a sublease, the original tenant grants a lease for a shorter period than their own remaining term and remains liable to the landlord. In an assignment, the original tenant transfers their entire remaining interest and usually is released from liability if the landlord consents.

It depends on the original lease terms. Most leases require the landlord's consent for a sublease, which often cannot be 'unreasonably withheld' under tenant protection laws, but the landlord can usually set reasonable conditions.

Typically, the subtenant pays rent to the original tenant (the sublessor). The sublessor then remains responsible for paying the full rent to the landlord. However, payment structures can be negotiated and specified in the sublease agreement.

It can be beneficial for a tenant needing temporary flexibility, but it adds complexity. The sublessor acts as a landlord to the sublessee while still being a tenant themselves, carrying dual responsibilities and risks. Proper legal documentation and landlord consent are crucial.

A secondary lease granted by a tenant (the sublessor) to another party (the sublessee) for all or part of the leased property, while the original tenant remains responsible to the landlord under the primary lease.

Sublease is usually formal/legal/business in register.

Sublease: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsʌbˈliːs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsʌbliːs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.