What does "default" mean in a lease context?

In the context of a lease, "default" refers to the failure of one party, typically the tenant, to comply with the terms and conditions outlined in the lease agreement. This can include failing to pay rent on time, not maintaining the property, or breaching other contractual obligations. When a default occurs, the landlord has the right to take specific actions, which may include initiating eviction proceedings or seeking damages for the breach.

The other options relate to different aspects of leasing. The transfer of lease rights to another party, known as an assignment or sublease, involves different legal implications and does not indicate a failure to comply. Automatically renewing a lease pertains to the continuation of the lease term under pre-agreed conditions and does not represent non-compliance. Lastly, providing additional security deposits is related to financial assurances but is not linked to the concept of default. Recognizing these distinctions is crucial for understanding lease agreements and the legal rights of both landlords and tenants.