Commercial Leases
Expert advice for landlords and tenants
We advise both landlords and tenants on every aspect of commercial leasing. Whether you are protecting a valuable property investment or securing the right premises for your business, we provide clear, straightforward guidance to protect your interests.
Our Commercial Lease Services
We provide a comprehensive service covering all aspects of commercial leases, including:
- Drafting and negotiating new leases
- Agreements for lease (including conditional agreements)
- Licences – for alterations, underletting and assignment
- Advising on landlord title issues before granting or taking a lease
- Lease renewals and extensions
- Deeds of variation and surrenders of leases
- Assignments, sub-letting and lease transfers
- Advising on the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 (security of tenure and renewal rights)
- EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) compliance and advice
- Post-completion Land Registry applications
- Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) in England and Land Transaction Tax (LTT) in Wales – advice, calculations and returns
Why Choose Us for Your Commercial Lease?
- Specialist expertise – we act for both landlords and tenants, giving us insight into the priorities and pressures on each side.
- Clear, practical advice – no jargon, just straightforward guidance you can act on with confidence.
- Comprehensive service – from drafting leases and licences to SDLT/LTT advice, EPC compliance, 1954 Act issues and Land Registry applications.
- Personal attention – as a boutique firm, your matter is handled by an experienced solicitor who knows your case inside out.
- Trusted by high-net-worth clients – we are discreet, thorough and focused on protecting your assets and investments.
- Chester-based, nationally active – we act for clients across England and Wales, combining local knowledge with wide-reaching expertise.
FAQs
Yes – both. We understand the priorities on each side and guide you through the process whether you are granting or taking a lease.
Commercial leases are often long, complex documents. A poorly drafted clause could restrict how you use the property, create unexpected costs or limit your future options. We protect your position and ensure the terms are commercially workable.
- Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) applies to commercial leases in England.
- Land Transaction Tax (LTT) applies in Wales.
Tax may be payable depending on the rent, term length and any premium. We calculate the amount due and complete the HMRC or Welsh Revenue Authority return for you.
Yes. The Act gives many business tenants security of tenure – the right to renew their lease at the end of the term – unless it is specifically excluded. We advise both landlords and tenants on the implications, renewal negotiations and the correct procedures to follow.
An EPC is legally required for most commercial properties when a lease is granted or renewed. Since 2023, landlords cannot grant a new lease of a property with an EPC rating below “E” (and future rules are likely to become stricter). We guide landlords on compliance and tenants on the implications of leasing a lower-rated property.
These cover whether you can assign (transfer), sublet or change the permitted use of the property. They often come with conditions, such as needing landlord’s consent or meeting financial requirements. We ensure the terms are reasonable and workable for your business or investment strategy.
We draft watertight leases, licences and agreements, ensure title issues are resolved, and deal with Land Registry requirements so your investment is fully protected.
Absolutely. We review repair obligations, EPC implications, licences for alterations, and break clauses so you know exactly what you are committing to.
No. While we are based in Chester, we represent landlords and tenants across England and Wales who value specialist, personal advice.
Protect Your Interests in Every Lease
Whether you’re a landlord safeguarding a valuable property or a tenant securing the right premises, our specialist solicitors provide clear, practical advice on all aspects of commercial leasing. From drafting and negotiating leases to handling renewals, assignments, and compliance, we ensure your interests are fully protected.
? Call us on 01244 356789
? Email us at info@cullimoredutton.co.uk
? Or complete the contact form on this page, and a member of our team will be in touch promptly.
Get expert guidance on your commercial lease today and act with confidence.