Skip to content
Ask a question
All posts

What legal steps should I take before signing a commercial lease agreement?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

Before signing a commercial lease agreement, there are several legal steps that you should take to protect yourself and ensure that you understand the terms of the lease. These steps include:

  1. Review the lease agreement thoroughly: It is essential that you read the lease agreement in its entirety and understand all of its terms and provisions. Pay particular attention to the rent, the length of the lease, renewal options, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, and any restrictions on the use of the property.

  2. Seek legal advice: As a commercial lease agreement is a legal document, it is recommended that you seek legal advice from a licensed attorney. They can help you understand the lease terms and provisions, and identify any potential issues that may arise.

  3. Conduct a property inspection: Before signing the lease agreement, it is recommended that you inspect the property to ensure it meets your business needs. If there are any issues, discuss them with the landlord before agreeing to any repairs or modifications.

  4. Negotiate lease terms: If there are certain terms in the lease agreement that you are uncomfortable with, it is recommended that you negotiate with the landlord. This may include negotiating rent, lease duration, maintenance responsibilities, or any restrictions on the use of the property.

  5. Obtain insurance coverage: As a tenant, it is recommended that you obtain insurance coverage to protect your business against any potential damages or losses that may occur during the lease term.

  6. Sign the lease: Once you have reviewed the lease agreement, obtained legal advice, conducted a property inspection, negotiated any lease terms, and obtained insurance coverage, you may sign the lease agreement.

It is important to note that every lease agreement is unique, and there may be specific legal requirements or exceptions that apply to your situation. As such, it is recommended that you seek legal advice from a licensed attorney to ensure that you understand your rights and obligations under the lease agreement.