Opinion ID: 1766361
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 9

Heading: the leasehold improvements

Text: Appellant claims the leasehold improvements were not covered because the improvements were the property of the landlord under the lease. The leasehold improvements were carpeting, walls, wallpaper, drapes and cabinets installed in respondent's office. Respondent borrowed the money to pay for these items from the United Missouri Bank. Under paragraph seven of respondent's lease with One Pershing Square, the following language appears: Tenant may not make or allow to make any alterations, additions or improvements to or of the Premises or any part thereof without the written consent of the landlord. Any alterations, additions or improvements to or of said premises, including, without limitation, any nonmovable partitions, and all carpeting or other floor covering, shall become part of the realty and belong to landlord upon their installation. Movable fixtures shall remain the property of the tenant. Respondent testified the leasehold improvements were attached to the space and physically not movable. As non-movable additions to the leasehold, the improvements became the property of the landlord under the express provisions of respondent's lease. Respondent may not assert a claim of conversion for property he does not own. Hampton v. Stephens, 691 S.W. 2d 287, 289 (Mo.App.1985). The jury should not have considered damages for conversion of the improvements.