Renting business premises is a significant commitment. Commercial leases are very different from residential tenancies and you'll have more responsibilities as a tenant.
- Lease length
- Commercial leases often run 5-25 years.
- Business rates
- You'll usually be responsible for paying business rates.
- Repairs
- Many commercial leases require tenants to maintain the property.
- Break clauses
- Negotiate a break clause to exit the lease early if needed.
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Get legal advice
Have a solicitor review the lease before signing.
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Check permitted use
Ensure the property can be used for your type of business.
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Negotiate terms
Discuss rent-free periods, break clauses, and repair responsibilities.
Business rates and reliefs
Business rates (non-domestic rates) are taxes on commercial properties. The amount depends on your property's rateable value and where in the UK you operate. Each nation has different relief schemes for small businesses.
Legal basis
Primary legislation and key regulations
Browse UK legislation (opens in a new tab) legislation.gov.ukOfficial guidance
Amended guidance on the late night levy (opens in a new tab)
Publication · Home Office
Business trading rules (Scotland) (opens in a new tab)
www.mygov.scot
Sunday trading rules (opens in a new tab)
GOV.UK
Northern Ireland small business rates (opens in a new tab)
GOV.UK
Apply for Small Business Bonus Scheme (Scotland) (opens in a new tab)
www.mygov.scot
Apply for business rate relief (opens in a new tab)
GOV.UK
Business rates relief in Wales (opens in a new tab)
www.gov.wales