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What steps do I need to take before signing a commercial lease agreement in Texas?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

Before signing a commercial lease agreement in Texas, there are several steps you should take to ensure that you fully understand the terms of the lease and protect your business interests. Here are some key steps to consider:

  1. Review the lease agreement carefully. Take the time to read the lease agreement thoroughly, paying close attention to any provisions that may impact your business. Make note of any questions or concerns you have about the terms of the lease, and discuss these with your landlord or a legal advisor.

  2. Negotiate any changes to the lease terms. If there are certain provisions in the lease agreement that you are uncomfortable with, negotiate with your landlord to make changes to these terms. For example, you may want to negotiate the length of the lease or the amount of the security deposit required.

  3. Consider hiring a legal advisor. If you are unfamiliar with commercial lease agreements or have questions about the legal implications of specific provisions, it may be wise to seek the guidance of a legal advisor. An attorney can help you review the lease agreement, negotiate changes, and ensure that your business interests are protected.

  4. Conduct due diligence on the property. Before signing a lease agreement, it's important to conduct proper due diligence on the property. This may include obtaining a title search to ensure that the property is owned by the landlord and that there are no liens or other claims against it, as well as conducting a physical inspection of the property to ensure that it meets your business needs.

  5. Obtain insurance coverage. It's important to obtain the proper insurance coverage before signing a commercial lease agreement. This may include general liability insurance, property insurance, and any other coverage required by the landlord.

  6. Be aware of any limitations or exceptions to your rights. It's important to understand any limitations or exceptions to your rights as a tenant under the lease agreement. For example, the lease may restrict certain types of business activities or limit your ability to make alterations to the property.

By taking these steps before signing a commercial lease agreement in Texas, you can help ensure that your business interests are protected and that you are fully aware of the terms of the lease. If you have any questions or concerns about the legal implications of a specific lease provision, it's always best to seek the guidance of a licensed attorney.