Nico owned a strip mall development along a busy suburban city avenue. One of his tenants operated a small shop selling new and used sewing machines. Over a period of six months, it was apparent to Nico that his tenant was in trouble. Originally, the rent was paid in full and on time. Then the tenant paid in full but late; then it was on time but short; then finally short and late, then for two months nothing at all was paid. Realizing that this would only go from bad to worse, Nico called a locksmith who drilled out and replaced the door lock. Nico moved the inventory of twenty sewing machines into the back storage room, clearing away the stock from the shelves visible from the front window. He placed a "For rent" sign in the window, set the alarm, and left. When he returned the next morning, he found the door lock smashed, the alarm disarmed, and the inventory gone.

Discuss the rights, responsibilities, and defences the parties may raise in this situation.