Landlord v. Tenant: Lease Forfeiture for Alleged Waste and Alterations

A property owner, having leased premises to a commercial tenant, sought termination of the lease based on the tenant's alleged failure to maintain the property, specifically citing unauthorized alterations and waste. The lower courts denied the request, finding that the actions taken did not substantially alter the nature of the tenancy or constitute actionable waste, and that the evidence did not support a breach sufficient to justify forfeiture of the leasehold. The highest court upheld this decision, reasoning that factual findings regarding the materiality of the tenant's modifications and compliance with lease terms were matters within the trial court's discretion and were not demonstrated to be legally flawed.