Looking to buy a property in order to establish or expand your business is a very important decision. Asking the landlord the right questions about the property and the lease is crucial, and in order to achieve the best negotiation possible, you need to consult a commercial lease solicitor.
Deciding in advance if you wish to pursue a long or short lease is crucial, because this decision can affect the terms of your contract considerably. If you are unsure about the steps you need to take, Saracens Solicitors commercial lease solicitor in London is happy to help.
Understanding the terms and conditions of a commercial lease
When you find a property that seems ideal for your business, the first thing you want to do is start negotiations with the landlord. Your commercial lease solicitor in London will guide you through the process of these negotiations in order to achieve a favourable outcome. Always check if a property is compatible with your business needs and ask about storage space and other things that may be important for your business.
More importantly, ensure that you understand thoroughly the terms and conditions of your lease termination. Will you be able to terminate your lease earlier if your business expands or if you go out of business? Are there going to be severe financial repercussions if you do so? Will your landowner agree to attach a break clause to the contract? Most landowners want to ensure that their property will remain leased consistently, therefore they will not be easily persuaded to include a favourable break clause in the contract. However, your commercial lease solicitor in London will do their best to achieve the most beneficial solutions for you.
Another important thing to ask before committing to a commercial lease is whether you will be paying the bills and other utilities and whether you will be granted permission to renovate. Depending on your business profile and goals, renovation may be necessary.
Last but not least, do not overlook the small print in the contract – before you sign, let your commercial lease solicitor in London review it carefully in order to ensure there are no hidden downsides.
