Why Your Landlord Reviews Your Financials—and Why It Matters

How Lease Language Quietly Strips Commercial Tenants of Control.

Monique called me confused.

“My landlord just asked for my financials—tax returns, P&L, everything. Is this normal? I’ve been here for years.”

“Check your lease,” I said. “It’s most likely in there as something you’ll need to provide.”

She found the language. Right there in black and white: Landlord’s right to request financial statements annually.

“I don’t remember this,” she said.

Most tenants don’t. Until the request arrives.