This list is not exhaustive, but should give you an idea of some of the general terms you need to be thinking of when you negotiate a commercial lease:

Length of term – how long is the term of the lease? If the term exceeds 7 years, you will need to register the lease with HM Land Registry Rent – how much is the rent? Is VAT payable on the rent? Are rent payments due monthly or quarterly? Is there a rent free period? When and how will the rent be reviewed and changed Is there a break clause to allow early termination of the lease? Is a service charge payable? If so, how is this apportioned and how is this calculated? How often should you pay it, and what does it cover? Insurance rent; the landlord has a legal obligation to pay insurance for the external of the premises, the tenant usually pays insurance rent to reimburse the landlord. How much insurance rent are you being asked to contribute?

What is the landlord’s permitted use? This is especially important as it must be consistent with your intended business activities, and must also be compliant with the property’s class usage How much deposit are you required to pay? Are business rates, taxes and utilities payable by the commercial tenant? Who is responsible for maintaining the property, including its fixtures, fittings and equipment? Who will pay for the landlord’s legal costs? How often are you required to redecorate the premises? Are there any other requirements, for example, do you need to apply for any permissions or licences?