Lease Agreements & Negotiations

Commercial lease agreements needn’t be stressful or complicated with the right legal advice.

At Wallace Robinson & Morgan, we provide expert legal services for both landlords and tenants involved in negotiating commercial lease agreements. Whether you are looking to secure new premises for your business, negotiate lease terms, or resolve lease disputes, our experienced team ensures that your interests are fully protected throughout the leasing process.

Our Lease Agreement Services Include:

Negotiating Lease Terms
We assist both landlords and tenants in negotiating key lease terms to achieve the most advantageous outcome. This includes rent reviews, renewal options, break clauses, and tenant improvement provisions. Our team uses their extensive experience to negotiate terms that are fair, commercially reasonable, and aligned with your business objectives.

Lease Drafting and Review
Our solicitors assist landlords and tenants in the preparation and review of commercial lease agreements. We ensure that the lease terms are clear, fair, and reflect the needs of both parties. Whether you are entering a new lease or reviewing an existing one, we carefully examine every clause to avoid any potential issues down the line.

Rent Reviews and Renewals
We provide expert advice on how to structure rent reviews and ensure they are compliant with the terms of the lease. Our solicitors also assist with lease renewals, advising on your rights and obligations, and helping you negotiate the best possible terms. Alongside our Litigation department, we can also assist with dispute resolution should any disagreements arise during this process.

Service Charges and Maintenance Obligations
A key consideration in commercial leases is the allocation of service charges and maintenance responsibilities. We advise both landlords and tenants on their respective obligations under the lease, helping to avoid potential disputes regarding repairs, maintenance, and service charges. Our team ensures that the terms around these obligations are clear and manageable.

Break Clauses and Termination
Break clauses provide tenants with flexibility and allow landlords to regain possession of their property, but are notorious for being exercised incorrectly. We offer detailed advice on break clauses – both for tenants seeking to exercise their right to terminate early, and for landlords looking to regain possession. We can help to ensure that these clauses are properly drafted and executed to avoid any future disputes. Learn more about how to protect yourself as a landlord here.

Subletting and Assigning Leases
If you wish to sublet or assign your lease, our solicitors can guide you through the legal process. We ensure that any subletting or assignment provisions are clearly outlined in the lease agreement and that the appropriate permissions are obtained from the landlord. If you are a landlord whose tenant wishes to assign or sublet, we can also act in drawing up the necessary licences to protect you.

Legal Compliance and Risk Management
Commercial leases must comply with various legal requirements, including health and safety regulations, planning laws, and environmental standards. We ensure that your lease agreement is fully compliant with current legislation and advise on risk management strategies to protect both landlords and tenants from future liabilities.

How can our solicitors help?

Our team at Wallace Robinson & Morgan are committed to making the leasing process as smooth and straightforward as possible for both landlords and tenants. Whether you’re negotiating a new lease, reviewing terms, or resolving a dispute, we provide clear, pragmatic advice and support that ensures your commercial property arrangements are legally sound and aligned with your business needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore common questions about lease assignments. Our FAQs provide clear guidance to simplify the transfer process.

I’m taking on my first commercial lease – what should I be aware of?

Taking on a commercial lease is a big commitment. We’ll help you understand the key terms, including how long you’re committing for, whether you can exit early, your repair responsibilities, and what you’ll be paying in rent and service charges. We’ll make sure the lease is clear, fair, and suits your business needs.

Can you help negotiate lease terms before signing Heads of Terms?

Yes – we can provide practical, commercially-focused advice during lease negotiations to help you secure favourable terms. We’ll guide you on key clauses such as rent-free periods, service charges, repair obligations, and exit options, ensuring clarity and protection from the outset. Making sure the terms are agreed and documented in advance of drafting documents helps to ensure time and cost in preparing and agreeing the lease are kept to a minimum.

Do you act for both landlords and tenants?

We regularly act for both landlords and tenants across a range of sectors, which gives us insight into what is fair and commercially standard. Whether you're leasing out a retail unit, office space, or industrial premises, we tailor our advice to reflect your goals and risk profile.

What happens if a dispute arises during the lease term?

We’re experienced in resolving lease-related disputes, including breaches of covenant, rent arrears, dilapidation claims, and contested lease renewals under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954. We aim to resolve issues cost-effectively and will always consider negotiation or mediation before resorting to litigation.

What costs should I expect as a tenant under a commercial lease?

In addition to rent, you may need to pay a service charge, insurance contributions, and legal costs. Some landlords also ask for a rent deposit. We’ll provide a clear breakdown of all expected costs upfront so there are no surprises.

What happens if I need to leave the premises before the lease ends?

Some leases include a “break clause” allowing you to end the lease early under certain conditions. If not, you may need to assign the lease or sublet the space – subject to landlord consent. We’ll advise you on your options and help you plan ahead for flexibility.