Commercial Lease Claim

[AnotherDay]

Hi,

New to the forum and could do with a little help please.

I left a commercial unit due to failed business. Notified the landlords but they would not end the lease until recently and I had a letter before action from their solicitors with a claim of a little over £4000.

I signed the lease, personal name and so I know I owe the money.

I have emailed the solicitors and explained, that now unemployed, looking for work but the £4000 is out of reach. With support from family though I was able to offer a full and final settlement offer of £1500 or a weekly payment of £10. They said no but did come back with a £400 reduction and offer to pay the balance over 12 months. This is not doable for me with no work.

I would like to deal with this without going to court and in a way that is good for both sides. I have no CCJ's etc and would like to, if possible avoid this. But if they push I will have no option but to let the matter go to court and then pay whatever I can.

I think I may be able to increase my offer with help of family but not sure if it is likely to be accepted.

Do such actions really prefare to go to court for CCJ even though the prospect of payment would be small payments?

Thanks

[atticus]

The question for your landlord, with legal advice, will be whether they think they can get a better outcome that justifies the additional expense. They may at this stage be trying to push you for more.

[AnotherDay]

I was wondering. In terms of the other side not wanting to negotiate a settlement and insisting that court action should be used, Could I ask for mediation before court?

Thanks again.

[atticus]

You can always ask. They may agree, or they may not.