Real CAM & NNN Overcharge Examples Tenants Encounter
Many tenants don’t realize there’s a problem until CAM or NNN charges jump unexpectedly. The examples below reflect common situations tenants report — situations that often feel confusing, frustrating, or simply unfair.
Example 1: “My CAM Went Up, But Nothing Changed”
A retail tenant reviewed their annual reconciliation and saw CAM charges increase more than 15% year over year. Landscaping, snow removal, and cleaning services appeared unchanged, yet costs rose significantly.
The issue wasn’t obvious at first. Only after reviewing the details did the tenant notice a growing administrative fee layered on top of standard expenses — something their lease limited, but never enforced.
Example 2: Sudden NNN Tax Spikes After Reassessment
An office tenant received a large, unexpected tax bill as part of their NNN charges following a property reassessment. The increase added thousands of dollars annually with little advance warning.
While property taxes are often a legitimate NNN expense, many tenants don’t realize reassessments can dramatically increase obligations — especially when leases lack caps or base-year protections.
Example 3: Insurance Costs Passed Through Without Explanation
A tenant noticed insurance costs increasing sharply year over year, even though no claims were made related to their space. The lease allowed insurance pass-throughs, but didn’t clearly explain how premiums were allocated.
In some cases, tenants end up subsidizing risks unrelated to their operations — something that often goes unnoticed without a careful review.
Example 4: Capital Improvements Treated as Operating Expenses
One tenant discovered they were paying for major property upgrades through CAM charges — costs that should have been amortized or excluded entirely under the lease.
Because reconciliation statements often combine many expense categories, these charges can blend in unless tenants know exactly what to look for.
When These Charges Cross the Line
Not every increase is improper. However, problems arise when charges exceed lease definitions, ignore negotiated caps, include landlord overhead, or shift long-term ownership costs onto tenants.
If CAM or NNN charges feel inconsistent, unusually high, or difficult to reconcile with the lease language, it’s often a sign they deserve closer scrutiny.
Think your situation sounds familiar?
Upload your lease to identify CAM and NNN risks, flag potential overcharges, and understand what your lease actually allows.
Upload Your Lease & Check Now (Free Preview)