Retail and Commercial Leases

Retail and commercial leases are legal agreements between a landlord and a tenant for renting a property used for business purposes.

• Retail Lease: This is a lease for premises used specifically for retail businesses, such as shops, cafes, or salons. It often includes terms that protect smaller businesses, like limitations on rent increases or specific rules about the landlord’s responsibilities. Over the past few years many businesses that were otherwise thought to be non-retail have now been brought under the Retail Leases umbrella.  This is particularly important when considering the increases in State Land Tax, as retail tenants are not required to reimburse landlords for land tax.  Landlords of incorrectly categorised retail leases, may find that land tax paid by the tenants must be refunded many years later
• Commercial Lease: This covers a broader range of business uses, such as offices, warehouses, or industrial spaces. The terms can be more flexible and are often negotiated based on the type of business and the property.

Both types of leases outline the rights and responsibilities of both parties, including rent, duration, maintenance, and use of the property. Getting legal advice is important to ensure the lease terms are compliant with legislation, enforceable, fair and meet your business needs.

With our extensive experience in commercial and retail leasing, we can help guide you through this complex area before signing a lease. We can assist with:

• Drafting and reviewing leases
• Subletting premises
• Resolving tenant disputes
• Advising on tenant and landlord rights

Contact us to learn more about retail and commercial leases or to book an appointment today.