Commercial Leases

Commercial leases are among the most important—and often most complex—agreements in business. Whether you are a landlord granting a lease or a tenant taking occupation, the terms of the lease will influence your operational flexibility, financial exposure and long-term obligations.

We advise on all aspects of commercial lease transactions, including:

• Heads of Terms
  
  

• Rent review mechanisms (upwards-only, index-linked, open market)
  
  

• Repair and service charge obligations
  
  

• Break clauses, term lengths and renewal rights
  
  

• Dilapidations and end-of-term liabilities
  
  

• Permitted use, alterations and planning considerations
  
  

• Alienation provisions (assignment and subletting)
  
  

Our role is to ensure the lease is fair, commercially viable and protective of your interests, whether you are a landlord seeking security or a tenant needing flexibility to operate your business effectively. We also assist with ongoing landlord–tenant issues such as disputes, unpaid rent, disrepair claims and lease interpretation queries.

Acquisitions and Disposals

Buying or selling a commercial property involves significant financial investment and often tight deadlines. Our legal team conducts rigorous due diligence to identify risks early and ensures you make informed decisions.

We handle:

• Comprehensive title review and Land Registry checks
  
  

• Planning and use class considerations under the Town and Country Planning Act
  
  

• Environmental matters, including contaminated land risks
  
  

• Commercial property searches and CPSE enquiries
  
  

• Lender requirements and financial due diligence
  
  

• Negotiation of sale or purchase contract terms
  
  

• Transfer documentation and completion formalities
  
  

We provide clear, commercial guidance throughout, helping you navigate complexities and keep the transaction progressing smoothly.

Development & Investment Matters

For developers and investors, we advise on:

• Site assembly and multi-party negotiations
  
  

• Joint venture arrangements
  
  

• Overage agreements and development uplift
  
  

• Option agreements and conditional contracts
  
  

• Pre-lets and development leases
  
  

Our team works closely with surveyors, planning consultants and financial advisors to ensure all aspects are aligned and legally sound.