Why Every Business Should Have a Lawyer Review Their Commercial Lease

As a business owner, you have every right to sign a commercial lease without first speaking with legal counsel. Of course, that doesn’t make it a good idea. These leases are often the largest expense a business will absorb, and a bad rental situation could potentially cost you your business.

What’s more, these leases are usually far more negotiable than standard residential leases. You have the opportunity to secure favorable terms and the kind of support that will make your business thrive, – but only if you know what to ask for. Below are some of the reasons why you should let an attorney review your lease before you sign it.

Identifying Hidden Expenses

Base rent might be the largest cost associated with renting a commercial space, but it is rarely the only one. Commercial leases often include additional charges such as common area maintenance fees or utilities that can cause your costs to skyrocket. These add-ons can increase over time and may not be capped unless you negotiate limits into how much you can be required to spend each month.

Clarifying Maintenance Responsibilities

Many disputes arise because the lease does not clearly define who is responsible for maintaining or repairing parts of the property. Without clear language spelling out who is responsible, you could find your business paying for those repairs. An attorney can give you a clear picture of your obligations under the lease.

Negotiating Favorable Terms

Commercial leases are not “take it or leave it” documents. Nearly every provision is negotiable, but only when you request specific concessions or terms. Your lease attorney can negotiate key terms such as rent escalation clauses, renewal options, or signage rights that were not originally in the deal.

Preventing Future Disputes

Ambiguous wording or conflicting language in a lease can wreak havoc on your business, and these conflicts might not occur for months or years after the document is signed. Having an attorney review your lease gives you a better chance at stopping these problems before they start.

Protecting Long-Term Business Flexibility

Your business may grow, downsize, or change directions, and it is important that you have a commercial lease that allows for that. An experienced attorney can examine whether the lease permits options like subleasing or relocation when the space no longer works for your organization.

Ensuring Legal Compliance

Commercial leases must comply with state and local laws, zoning requirements, disability access regulations, and safety codes. An attorney can identify potential compliance issues that may create risk or delay operations. Legal review ensures your business is not violating any rules the moment it opens the doors.

Talk to Bradshaw Legal Today

At Bradshaw Legal, we are focused on negotiating and reviewing commercial leases. You deserve an attorney that has the experience needed to ensure your agreement not only meets your needs but will hold up in court. Contact us today to learn how we can help.