The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 protects most business tenants in relation to renewing a commercial lease. A business tenant cannot simply be thrown out on the street and has rights to renew a lease at its end in certain circumstances. Our commercial lease renewal solicitors can help guide you through the commercial lease process.
Landlord’s Notice
The renewal process begins with the landlord’s notice, which must state whether they will oppose the lease renewal. If the landlord objects, the notice must include a valid reason as specified by the Act. Personal dislike of the tenant is not a legitimate reason for opposing the renewal.
Notice to Quit and Notice of Requirement of a New Lease
At the end of a business lease, a tenant can either issue a notice to quit or request a new lease. If the tenant requests a new lease, the landlord must then decide whether to oppose it, but can only do so based on statutory grounds.
While these are the primary methods of lease termination, courts have also recognised that if a tenant vacates the premises, returns the keys, and stops paying rent, this is generally considered a valid termination of the lease.
Lease Renewal
Once both parties agree to renew the lease, the focus shifts to negotiating the new terms, usually handled by surveyors and valuers. It is now rare for lease renewal terms to be settled in court.
Get in touch…
Whilst we provide most of our services on a ‘fixed-fee’ basis, we always offer a free meeting to discuss your specific needs and circumstances at the beginning of any matter.
We are happy to discuss your requirements with you and to advise in general terms on all aspects of the transaction and the estimated legal cost. Please either contact us by telephone or email us at:
If you would like to know more about any of the services we offer, please contact us on 0203 489 7010.
