Commercial Eviction in Costa Rica

Disclaimer: This guide provides general legal information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Landlord-tenant laws change frequently. Always consult with a qualified attorney in Costa Rica for advice specific to your situation. Last verified: March 2026.

Summary Judicial Procedures

To recover a corporate establishment, landlords generally rely on the same figure stipulated for residential: a Summary Eviction Process (Proceso Sumario de Desahucio) processed before local civil courts handling collection and the rule of law.

Grounds for Contractual Breach

The causes for eviction rest on equivalent grounds, particularly emphasizing material non-payment, as well as operational risks or closures:

• Lack of Operating and Health Permits: If the business tenant fails to obtain permits and government entities order the property closed or fine the landlord's premise.
• Exceeding formal timeframes or conducting unauthorized remodeling detrimental to the property.
• Improper subletting to a third party when there is no written authorization.

In robust commercial contracts, especially for anchor tenants or Class A offices, there is often the backing of letters of credit or solidary guarantor obligations covering default.