Leasing New Premises

 

 

Locating new premises with the correct location, facilities and services can take up valuable management time. The time frame can be lengthened dramatically by the negotiation and legal phases of the transaction. These will deal with the rent that is paid and the terms of the lease taken. Once these stages are under way then consideration can be given to alterations and fit out by the tenant. A Licence from the Landlord will usually be require which will include a specification of the works to be carried out. Only once these stages have been completed can the tenant start any works or installation of services needed before actual occupation.

 

The Government is pressing the industry to stop the use of upward only rent review clauses and has threatened that in absence of industry adherence may out law them. Tenants should be aware of the impact of such clauses and the changes which might result.

 

Ensuring that the rent and lease terms are acceptable and represent value for money for the occupier are at least as important as securing the necessary quantity and location of  business space. The condition of the accommodation needs to be carefully recorded to ensure that the occupier does not incur unnecessary dilapidation liabilities at the end of the lease. (See separate page on this subject)

 

If an occupier is taking an assignment  it is important to try to ensure that any liabilities such as repairs incurred by the previous occupier are not carried forward to the party taking over the premises. If they cannot be avoided then they should be costed at that time to quantify the future liability. 

 

We undertake search and identify projects for clients and negotiate the terms of the lease with the landlords or their agents. We then liaise with solicitors to ensure that the lease reflect the terms of the agreement leased. Ensuring that this stage of the transaction takes place quickly is a matter that requires good communication with the clients solicitors to ensure that the project remains on schedule and allows the tenants service providers to prepare the space for occupation.