I am asking this question on my friend's behalf who does not have internet access. Whenever I get new info I will update the questions.

In Feb. of 2006 my friend signed a year lease to end in feb of 2007. Last month the owners sold the aprtment building. The NEW owners have sent all tenents a letter stating: you have until July 31 to move out. You are expected to pay each months rent and will receive your deposit one week after you have vacated.

What we want to know is: aren't the new owners breaking her lease? Shouldn't they simply return the tenent's deposits and allow them to live rent free until July 31? We are going to check the lease to see if it states that if the building is sold then the lease will be transferred. If it does, then we know the answer. If not, what rights does she have?

I cannot find the particular KY law that applies, but typically the new owners are responsible to adhere to the leases.

Yes, you are wise to check the language of the lease, but this particular issue may not be addressed there.

If I were you I would "play dumb" and tell the new owner that you understand that they are responsible for adhering to the lease, and see how they respond. If they do not respond in your favor, I would root through the KY Landlord-Tenant Laws further (verbatum laws here (http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/KRS/383-00/CHAPTER.HTM); help guide here (http://www.tenant.net/Other_Areas/Kentucky/ltguide.html))

I might also give your state Attorney General a call to ask them about this. Be sure, though, to tell them it's a general question as they will not give you legal advice on a personal level.

Basically a new owner is normally obligated to follow the terms of any previous lease. If they did not ask and the old owner did not tell them, they may need to be informed in writing that you have a lease on your apartment till a certain date. And that you expect them to honor the legally binding document. If they wish to have you move out sooner, they may make an offer to buy out the remainding part of the lease.

And actually you should get all of the tennants if more than one in building, and get an attorney together.