A property manager overseeing a shopping mall in Montréal is approached by a small independent boutique interested in leasing space adjacent to a major department store. The boutique owner asks if the department store, a 'Maison du Monde' (a well-known national retailer), is planning to renew its lease, which expires in 18 months. What document can the property manager request from Maison du Monde to confirm their lease status for the prospective tenant?

Question: A property manager overseeing a shopping mall in Montréal is approached by a small independent boutique interested in leasing space adjacent to a major department store. The boutique owner asks if the department store, a 'Maison du Monde' (a well-known national retailer), is planning to renew its lease, which expires in 18 months. What document can the property manager request from Maison du Monde to confirm their lease status for the prospective tenant?

Answer options:

• A lease renewal agreement directly from Maison du Monde's corporate office. ✅ An estoppel certificate signed by Maison du Monde, confirming key lease terms including expiry and any renewal options exercised.
• A sworn affidavit from the landlord stating the current lease status of Maison du Monde.
• A copy of Maison du Monde's original lease agreement to verify the expiry date.

Correct answer: An estoppel certificate signed by Maison du Monde, confirming key lease terms including expiry and any renewal options exercised.

Explanation: An estoppel certificate is a legally binding document signed by a tenant that verifies the current status of the lease and confirms specific facts, such as the lease commencement and expiry dates, rent amounts, outstanding balances, and whether any defaults exist.