| Guvnor

The owner will offer you a lease or a licence to occupy. Only a tenancy can give you a right to stay on and renew when the term ends, and a short fixed term usually carries no such right. A solicitor can confirm which you hold before you sign.

When the right to renew does not apply

These limits come from the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Fixed term outside Part II: 6 months or less, with no renewal or extension beyond 6 months
Occupation bringing in Part II: More than 12 months, including a predecessor's occupation in the business
Notice to contract out: Before the tenant moves in or becomes bound, whichever is earlier
Simple declaration: Allowed with at least 14 days' notice
Statutory declaration: Required for notice shorter than 14 days

Agreed in writing with the owner

Start and end dates Who pays business rates, and whether your fee includes them Who is responsible for fire safety in your space and in shared areas What insurance the owner expects you to hold What signs you may put up How either side can end the agreement early

Agree terms for the space