Before you sign: a more considered approach to commercial leasing.

A lease is more than a rental figure. It is a framework for an ongoing relationship and a place where your business needs to work in practice.

Look beyond the headline rent

Make a list of every expected cost and who will bear it. Include fit-out, utilities, maintenance, service charges and any proposed deposits or guarantees. Ask for unclear items to be explained in writing.

Connect the space to the business

Consider whether the proposed use, access arrangements and planned alterations suit your operations. Identify any approvals or dependencies that need to be checked by an appropriate adviser.

Think about change

Businesses evolve. Discuss the treatment of assignment, subletting, renewal, early departure and the return of the premises. Do not assume that a future change will be permitted.

Bring the whole picture to your adviser

Share the draft lease, commercial correspondence and a clear description of your plans. This is a discussion checklist, not a statement of applicable leasing law or a substitute for transaction-specific advice.