Legal Definitions - Permissive waste

Permissive waste

Permissive waste is a legal term used in property law to describe the damage caused to a property due to the tenant's negligence. It occurs when a tenant fails to take care of the property, leading to its deterioration. Examples of permissive waste include not performing maintenance, failing to make necessary repairs, or not paying taxes on the property.

Suppose a tenant rents a house and fails to fix a leaky roof. Over time, the water damage causes the ceiling to collapse, leading to significant damage to the property. This is an example of permissive waste. Another example is when a tenant fails to mow the lawn, leading to overgrowth and damage to the property's landscaping.

These examples illustrate how a tenant's neglect can lead to the deterioration of a property, causing harm to the landlord's investment. It is the tenant's responsibility to take care of the property and ensure that it remains in good condition.