Commercial Lease Review
That commercial lease may cost far more than the rent you see. Professional legal review protects your business before you sign.
The Hidden Costs
Business owners focus on base rent, but true lease costs include:
Additional Rent – Taxes, insurance, maintenance, operating costs
Maintenance Obligations – You may be responsible for repairs
Renewal Clauses – What happens when lease ends?
Assignment Restrictions – Can you sell the business or transfer lease?
Personal Guarantees – You may personally guarantee the lease
Hidden Fees – CAM, parking, utilities
Termination Penalties – Costs if you need to leave early
Why Legal Review Matters
Identifies potential risks before you sign
Clarifies all financial obligations
Protects your personal assets
Negotiates better terms
Ensures you understand every clause
Prevents costly surprises
The 5-Point Lease Review Checklist
Base Rent Is Only Part of Total Cost – What other costs will you pay?
Additional Rent & Operating Costs – Are you responsible for taxes, insurance, maintenance?
Lease Terms May Limit Flexibility – Can you expand, reduce space, or relocate?
Personal Guarantees Put Assets at Risk – Does the lease require your personal guarantee?
Legal Review Prevents Costly Surprises – Is everything clear and protective of your interests?
The Lease Review Process
- Initial consultation about your business needs
- Detailed lease analysis
- Risk assessment and identification
- Negotiation guidance and recommendations
- Review of landlord’s responses
- Final preparation for signing
Key Negotiation Points
Most lease terms are negotiable. Don’t sign without asking for changes on:
Personal guarantees – Limit or eliminate
Operating costs – Cap increases
Renewal terms – Secure favorable renewal options
Assignment rights – Protect your exit strategy
Protection Strategy
Negotiate personal guarantees to be limited or removed
Clarify all financial obligations upfront
Ensure you understand expansion and exit options
Protect against unexpected cost increases
Ensure fair renewal terms
The best time to negotiate is before you sign.
Ready to protect your business?
Call: 905-519-8989
Available evenings and weekends.