What does "tenant at sufferance" mean?

A "tenant at sufferance" refers to a situation where a tenant remains in possession of a property after their lease has expired without the landlord's permission. This is significant because the tenant does not have a valid lease agreement but is still occupying the premises, usually with the landlord's knowledge. This figure lies in a somewhat precarious legal position, as they are technically not considered legal tenants since the lease has ended.

The term highlights the landlord's inability or reluctance to remove the tenant from the property, despite the tenant's unauthorized occupancy. The landlord may choose to either accept payment for continued occupancy or initiate eviction proceedings to regain full control of the property. Understanding this definition is crucial for property managers and landlords who must navigate the complexities of tenant rights and property law.