Landlord says I will be responsible for legal fees.

Question

My lease is coming up for renewel and the landlord sent me the renewel paper to be signed and returned. Within this document it states the changes to the renewed lease are as follows..... "lessee will be responsible for legal fees". Is this something I should be concerned about? I have no choice but to agree or move right? The apartment was bought by new owners 3 months ago so i am afraid they can try to sue because the place is already in need of repairs and possible they could try to take tenants to court at our cost. I live in Philadelphia, PA.............Thanks!

Answer 1

That is a standard clause in most leases. It just covers the LL in case they have to take you to court, usually only for evictions. Our states "legal fees will be paid by the prevailing party" and gives a maximum. Personally I wouldnt worry about it if you pay your rent and are a good tenant.  

Answer 2

It is a standard clause and it is NOT enforceable.   The judge still decides and they very rarely side for the plaintiff unless the defendant was very vicious and was obviously in the wrong.

For instance, if they evicted you for non-payment you would have to pay the court fees.   If you were evicted because you kept the apartment dirty you would not, because you honestly may have thought is was OK to be a  slob.    I am not saying you are, just an example.