SERVICES
Commercial leasing
Signing a commercial lease is one of the most significant commitments a business makes.
It’s not just about securing a space, it’s about agreeing to a set of legal and financial obligations that can shape how your business operates for years.
Most leases are presented as “standard.” But in reality, they are often heavily landlord-focused, with terms that are not always obvious at first glance.
Taking the time to properly understand your lease before signing can make a meaningful difference to your risk, flexibility and long-term position.
What this really involves
Reviewing a lease isn’t just about reading the document. It’s about understanding how the terms will actually play out in your day-to-day business.
That might include:
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Identifying key financial obligations beyond base rent (outgoings, increases, hidden costs)
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Understanding your rights and where they are limited
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Assessing restrictions on use, fit-out, assignment or exit
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Reviewing the term, options and long-term commitment you are making
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Advising on heads of agreement before they become binding expectations
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Supporting assignments or transfers if your business is changing
A lease can look straightforward on the surface, but the detail is where the real impact sits.
Why this matters
I often speak with clients after they have already signed, when something isn’t working.
They want to exit early.
They’re facing unexpected costs.
They have issues with their tenant or their landlord.
Or the lease is restricting how they can operate or grow.
At that point, options can be limited.
Common issues I see include:
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obligations that go further than expected
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limited ability to assign or exit the lease
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rent reviews or outgoings that weren’t fully understood
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restrictions that impact how the business can evolve
None of these are unusual, they’re simply the result of terms that were not fully unpacked at the start.
A well-advised lease does not remove all risk, but it ensures you understand what you are agreeing to and, where possible, improves your position before you are locked in.
How I work with landlords
This isn’t about producing a “standard lease.” It’s about putting the right structure and protections in place so your asset and your income are properly safeguarded.
First — I understand your property and objectives
The type of tenant you want, the level of flexibility you need, and how hands-on you intend to be.
Then — I draft or review the lease strategically
Ensuring the terms properly protect you — from rent and outgoings through to default, damage and end-of-lease obligations.
Next — we position you for negotiation
So you can negotiate from a place of clarity, without unintentionally weakening your position.
Finally — I support you through to execution and beyond
Including variations, renewals, disputes or enforcement if issues arise.
How I work with tenants
This isn’t about marking up a document with legal comments. It’s about giving you a clear, practical understanding of what you are signing and where you have room to move.
First — I review the lease in detail
Looking beyond the obvious terms to identify where risk and cost sit.
Then — I explain it clearly
What matters, what to watch for, and how it affects your business in real terms.
Next — we look at negotiation opportunities
Where terms can be improved, clarified or softened before you commit.
Finally — I support you through to signing
So you move forward knowing exactly where you stand.
The result
You are not going into a long-term commitment blind.
You have:
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a clear understanding of your obligations and risks
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visibility over the true cost of the lease
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improved terms where negotiation is possible
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confidence in the decision you’re making
And importantly, fewer surprises once you’re operating from the premises.
FAQs
Do I really need a lawyer for a lease? You’re not required to have a lawyer review a lease but it’s one of the most important documents you will sign for your business. Leases are often long, complex, and heavily weighted in favour of the landlord. Key terms around rent increases, outgoings, make good obligations, assignment, and termination can have a significant financial and operational impact if not properly understood. We regularly see clients who have signed leases without advice and later find themselves locked into terms that are difficult or costly to change. A review upfront allows you to understand what you’re agreeing to, identify any risks, and, where appropriate, negotiate more favourable terms. Most clients seek advice before signing when there is still an opportunity to make changes, rather than after the lease is locked in.
Can lease terms be negotiated? In many cases, yes, particularly before the lease is signed. While some terms may be presented as “standard”, there is often room to negotiate depending on the property, the landlord, and the strength of your position as a tenant. Common areas of negotiation include: • rent and rent review mechanisms • incentives (such as rent-free periods or fit-out contributions) • lease term and renewal options • make good obligations • assignment and exit flexibility The key is identifying what matters most to your business and approaching negotiations in a commercially practical way. We assist by reviewing the lease, highlighting where negotiation is possible, and helping you approach those discussions with clarity and confidence. Many clients engage us at this stage to ensure they are not leaving important terms on the table before committing.