What approach is typically less favored by landlords in lease negotiations?

In lease negotiations, the approach that is typically less favored by landlords is the expense stop lease. An expense stop lease sets a limit on the amount of operating expenses that the landlord will cover. Once expenses exceed this predetermined stop, the tenant is responsible for the excess costs.

Landlords may prefer other lease types, such as gross leases or triple net leases, which allow them to either cover all expenses or transfer the significant majority of costs to tenants. In a gross lease, the landlord pays for all operating expenses, providing stability and predictability in cash flows. In a triple net lease, the tenant assumes responsibility for property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs, minimizing the landlord’s financial risk.

The expense stop structure might be seen as less favorable for landlords because it introduces uncertainty regarding operating costs and requires them to manage expense increases effectively. In contrast, other lease structures tend to create clearer obligations and reduced financial exposure for landlords.