Guide
Leave your business premises
How to end a commercial lease, including break clauses, dilapidations, and ongoing rates liability.
Retail & Consumer Goods
UK-wide
When you need to leave your business premises, understanding your obligations helps you exit smoothly and minimise costs.
Using a break clause
If your lease has a break clause, you may be able to leave early.
Dilapidations
Your landlord may claim for repairs you should have done during your tenancy.
Business rates when leaving
You may still be liable for business rates after you vacate.
Getting your deposit back
Understanding the conditions for deposit return.
Exit checklist
Before you leave:
- Give correct notice in the required form
- Check break clause conditions carefully
- Arrange a schedule of condition (to limit dilapidations exposure)
- Remove all your fixtures and fittings (unless lease says otherwise)
- Reinstate any alterations if required by lease
- Clear all rent and service charges
- Notify your local council about empty property rates
- Cancel or transfer utilities
- Redirect mail