Commercial premises law

Whether your business owns or rents premises, your legal liabilities can be substantial. Commercial property law is complex, but you can avoid common pitfalls.

Choosing premises for your business doesn't just mean finding the right space in the right location - you also need to think about lease terms.

Getting out of a lease if your property requirements change while you are leasing commercial premises can leave you in a difficult situation.

The rent review provisions of a typical lease can present a major headache if you suddenly find yourself faced with a substantial rent increase.

A planned maintenance program for managing your premises can help minimise damage and the costs of repairs for your business premises.

If you are building or altering commercial premises, or changing the way you use them, you may need planning permission or building consent - or both.

Buying premises may be one of the largest investments you make in your business. Understand the process and have all the legal bases covered.

It's essential to get adequate insurance cover for your business, so that if disaster strikes your business can recover.

If you need to get out of your lease there may be several options available, including terminating the lease, re-assigning the lease and sub-letting.

Depending on the size of your business and what you do, there are some insurances that will be compulsory and others that are highly advisable. 

Leasing premises is often the most appealing option for businesses. The right lease gives you a secure base without the costs of buying a freehold.

Claiming on your insurance for a breakage or theft can be stressful - but if you follow these steps you can maximise your chances of success.

Moving into licensed property is easier, quicker and cheaper than taking on a lease or buying a freehold property. Our overview of premises licences.

Rent reviews and business rates revaluations can cost you money. How to judge whether an increase is reasonable, and how to challenge an increase.

Rent reviews are a mechanism for adjusting a tenant’s rent to the current market level. You negotiate a rent review with your landlord.

Most businesses rent their premises, either through a lease or a licence, as it's flexible and ties up minimal capital. Our guide to what to consider.