Commercial Leases Solicitors in Bristol

We specialise in the legal and practical work around lease negotiations and drafting, and in the interpretation and application of terms where there’s disagreement or where a lease needs to be brought to an end.

We act on both sides of the fence: for landlords who want the best commercial returns and the retention of certain controls; and tenants who are looking for both flexibility and security, as well as rental terms that make sound business sense.

Our team has many years of experience advising clients of all sizes across the UK, including start-up companies in need of their first premises, established businesses outgrowing their space or expanding into new locations, and landlords of single or multiple properties. We provide our expertise and commitment to putting the leases that bolster their business in place.

Speak to one of our commercial lease solicitors now by calling 0117 909 4000 or contact your local Henriques Griffiths office in Bristol or Winterbourne.

How our commercial lease solicitors in Bristol can help you

Our commercial property solicitors are highly experienced in supporting all types of businesses and organisations with every aspect of commercial leases, including:

• Commercial lease agreements
• Commercial lease renewals
• Ending commercial leases
• Commercial lease disputes

For more information about our commercial lease services in Bristol, see our commercial property and commercial property acquisitions and disposals pages.

Commercial Lease Agreements

Leasing commercial property is often the biggest investment a business will make, but it can also be the most onerous. Commercial property leases can contain extensive liabilities and covenants that you must comply with and so it essential you understand what you are taking on before signing any leases.  

Getting the right lease agreement in place is, therefore, vital for both landlords and tenants, helping to ensure you can both see a good return on your investment and enjoy a positive landlord-tenant relationship. We can help you to draft, review and negotiate commercial lease agreements, as well as considering viable alternatives, ensuring the terms of the agreement work for you.

Commercial Lease Renewals

When the time comes to renew a lease, it is important for both landlord and tenant to be aware of their rights and to have expert advice and representation during any renewal negotiations.

Business tenants often have the automatic right to renew their tenancy under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 , however landlords can choose to exclude this right in the original lease agreement. It is therefore essential to know whether this applies to your lease and for landlords to consider whether they want to exclude this right when creating lease agreements.

We are highly experienced in lease renewal negotiations, so whether you are a tenant or landlord, we can help to secure the future of your business as smoothly and swiftly as possible.

Ending Commercial Leases

If the time comes where you need to end a business tenancy, we can help you explore your options for doing so in a way that complies with the terms of your lease.

It is common for leases to include break clauses, allowing you to end the tenancy early under certain conditions, and where your lease agreement contains such a provision, we can help to ensure you interpret and meet the conditions correctly.

If you are a landlord who needs to evict a tenant, e.g. for non-payment of rent, we can advise you on the best way to do this while staying within the law, allowing you to regain vacant possession of your property as soon as possible and with minimal hassle.

Commercial Lease Disputes

Whether you own or lease your commercial property, disputes may always arise, whether regarding rent reviews, renewals, repairs, or other matters.

Disputes over commercial leases can be complicated, disruptive, and costly to your business. Our commercial property disputes solicitors have vast experience advising our business clients on such matters. We work with both landlords and tenants to find positive resolutions to commercial lease disputes, using non-confrontational means wherever possible.

Our goal is to help you get the right outcome for your business as quickly and cost-effectively as possible while helping you to preserve a positive landlord-tenant relationship wherever possible.

Commercial Leases FAQs

What is a Commercial Lease?

A commercial lease is a legally binding agreement between a business tenant and a landlord that allows the tenant to occupy and use the property for commercial business purposes. It details the terms of occupation, including rent payable, the length of the lease, and responsibilities for repairs and maintenance. Unlike residential agreements, commercial leases typically involve negotiation as the lease details are usually more specific and detailed.

What is the difference between a lease and a licence to occupy?

A lease gives the tenant exclusive possession of a property for an agreed-upon period, meaning the landlord cannot enter without permission. It also affords the tenant certain legal protections, making the agreement a more viable foundation for business success.

A licence to occupy, however, is less resolute and will usually allow the landlord to retain more control over the property. Licences are usually used for short-term arrangements and do not offer the same legal security as a lease. Whether you chose a lease or a license to occupy typically depends on the level of security that you need.

Do I need a solicitor to review my commercial lease?

Yes, you are strongly advised to have a solicitor review your commercial lease before signing it. A commercial lease is a complex legal document with significant long-term implications for your business. A solicitor can offer insight into the potential future ramifications and ensure that you understand the small print. They can negotiate fairer terms for you and ensure you’re not signing up for unexpected restrictions or expenses.

What are the key clauses that could impact my business operations?

There are several clauses that can have a substantial impact on how your business can operate within or using the property, including:

• Rent reviews: How and when rent increases are applied and the basis for calculating any increase
• Break clauses: Whether you can exit the lease early if needed and the conditions you need to meet within a timeframe
• Repair obligations: Whether you’re responsible for maintenance or extensive repairs
• Service charges: Additional costs you may be required to pay to your landlord for the upkeep and repair of the property or any building it’s a part of
• Use restrictions: Any limitations on how, and for what, the property can be used

It’s key that you understand these clauses to limit unexpected costs or restrictions that might impact your businesses’ ability to thrive and operate.

How much does a commercial lease cost?

The answer will depend significantly on the complexity of your commercial lease. Several factors can impact the cost, including the property location, size, and length of the lease, meaning that in addition to rent, you may also need to budget for service charges, insurance, and legal fees. Our solicitors can help you to review the lease and the legal factors to ensure that you understand the full financial commitment you’re facing, as well as preventing hidden fees or costs.

Why choose Henriques Griffiths’ commercial lease solicitors?

Henriques Griffiths’ commercial property team has decades of experience helping clients with all aspects of commercial leases, meaning we know exactly what it takes to create and manage a successful relationship between business landlords and tenants.

Having dealt with most of the issues that can affect leases and the landlord-client relationship over the years, we can offer a proactive approach that minimises potential problems. Where issues do arise, our focus on non-confrontational dispute resolution means we can find the right solution for you faster and more cost-effectively, helping to protect your business and reputation.

Henriques Griffiths is Lexcel accredited by the Law Society for our excellent practice management and client care and we are members of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS). We are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) providing assurance that we continually meet the highest legal and professional standards.

Contact our commercial lease solicitors in Bristol today

Speak to one of our commercial lease solicitors now by contacting your local Henriques Griffiths office in Bristol or Winterbourne.

Alternatively, use our simple enquiry form to ask a question or request a call back.