No home-based business
Blanket home business bans are common but may be unenforceable for quiet activities (remote work, online sales). Ask for clarification.
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What it actually means
Landlords worry about client traffic, noise, and zoning violations. But remote work and e-commerce often don't cause those issues.
If you're a freelancer working from a laptop, this clause probably won't be enforced against you — but technically you're in violation.
What it looks like in a lease
"Tenant shall not conduct any business or commercial activity from the Premises."
What to watch for
- Whether remote work is excepted
- Whether it conflicts with zoning
How to negotiate it
'Can we add: quiet home-based work without client visits is permitted?'
When it crosses into a red flag
- Applies to remote employment
Frequently asked questions
Can I work from home?
Almost always yes — but check with your landlord if you're worried about a strict lease.
Related clauses
General information, not legal advice. Clauses are interpreted differently across states and courts. For a binding interpretation of your specific lease, consult a licensed attorney in your state.
