If you are a new business owner who is taking the important step of leasing your first commercial space, you should be aware that commercial leases are subject to some unique considerations that would not necessarily apply to residential leases, such as apartment leases. In many jurisdictions, commercial tenants are not guaranteed the same rights as residential tenants. In the commercial leasing environment, both tenant and landlord are persons or entities engaged in business pursuits; as such, a commercial lease is generally viewed as an equal bargaining transaction between the two business interests. For example, in New York, the respective rights and duties of the landlord and tenant are almost entirely defined by the terms of the lease itself, with very little statutory or regulatory protection for the parties. In plainer terms, the courts will not be sympathetic to issues arising out of your failure to thoroughly read and understand the terms of your commercial lease.
For this reason, it is crucial to have an NYC commercial real estate attorney experienced with commercial leasing review your lease prior to you signing it. At Avenue Law Firm, our attorneys can assist in verifying that all crucial aspects of the lease are thoroughly examined, potential risks are identified, and any necessary negotiations or amendments are made to protect your interests. Contact us today at (212) 729-4090 to schedule a consultation.
While this list is by no means all-inclusive, here are some important things to consider when negotiating a commercial lease:
RENT PROVISION IN A COMMERCIAL LEASE
This is not as straightforward as a rent clause in a residential lease. In addition to monthly rent, your landlord may ask you to pay real estate taxes and maintenance costs. Make sure you understand if operational costs such as electricity, trash removal, water, property taxes, etc. will be handled by you or by the landlord. Almost every office and retail lease provides for some form of escalation of the rent. Most of the time rent increases by a certain percentage each year. Sometimes rent escalations are tied to Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Requirements for Leasing a Commercial Space
In New York’s competitive real estate market, it’s essential to approach the leasing process with a well-informed strategy and a clear understanding of your business’s needs. Here are the refined steps to guide you through the intricacies of leasing commercial property in the city that never sleeps:
- Define Business Needs and Budget: Clearly articulating your business requirements and financial constraints is the cornerstone of a successful property search. Size, location, and specific amenities should be carefully weighed against your strategic business objectives and financial capabilities.
- Research and Understand the Market: Staying abreast of market trends is crucial, as they can directly affect lease conditions and your business’s long-term viability in a specific area. Your ideal location will balance visibility, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Engaging a knowledgeable commercial real estate lawyer can make all the difference. They act as navigators through the complex terrain of New York’s commercial real estate landscape.
- Visit Potential Spaces: Experiencing the space firsthand is irreplaceable. This is where you visualize your business coming to life. It’s important to assess not only how the space meets current needs but also how it can adapt to future growth. Think of each visit as a chance to mentally place your brand within the four walls, ensuring it’s the stage where your business will thrive.
- Review Lease Terms Carefully: The lease agreement defines your rights and responsibilities for the duration of your tenancy. Scrutinize everything from the fine print to the broad clauses, and don’t hesitate to seek clarifications or amendments. Your attorney can assist you in verifying that everything is in order and can help you avoid any potential legal issues.
- Perform Due Diligence: Look under the hood before you commit. This is your due diligence to safeguard your investment. Verify the condition of the property, compliance with relevant laws and regulations, and the landlord’s credibility. Working with a skilled attorney can provide great insight into the property.
- Negotiate the Lease: The art of negotiation can make a significant impact on your bottom line. It’s not just about the monthly rent—it’s about the total cost of occupancy. This includes potential benefits such as tenant improvements or leasehold incentives. A well-negotiated lease can provide financial flexibility, allowing you to invest more in your business’s growth.
- Finalize the Agreement: Approaching the lease finalization as the culmination of a strategic process ensures that you’ve covered all bases. It’s the moment to ensure that every negotiated term has been captured accurately and reflects the understanding between you and the landlord.
By meticulously following these requirements, you can confidently navigate the complexities of commercial leasing in New York City. This journey, when done correctly, not only secures a physical space for your venture but also lays a foundation for operational success and a stable business environment. Consult a skilled commercial real estate attorney from Avenue Law Firm for quality legal assistance tailored to your circumstances.
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR IMPROVEMENTS, ALTERATIONS, AND REPAIRS?
In residential leases, the landlord is usually responsible for all repairs and maintenance of the property. However, commercial properties are commonly rented “as is”. Unless specifically stated in the commercial lease, the landlord does not have an obligation to maintain or repair your premises, or to maintain the common areas. It is paramount that you understand your obligations and have a financial plan for dealing with potential emergency maintenance that you may be held responsible for.
CAN I SUBLEASE MY COMMERCIAL SPACE?
Unforeseen circumstances can pop up for the best of us. If you no longer need the entire commercial space for yourself, will you be able to sublet all or a portion of it? The right to sublease is governed by your commercial lease. Make a note of whether or not subleasing is permitted. Even if it is, most commercial leases require you to get your landlord’s consent prior to subleasing the space. It is not uncommon for landlords in New York to charge tenants for such consent or to request a portion of the rent that you will receive from your tenant. Therefore, it is very important to carefully review the portion of your commercial lease agreement that deals with your rights to sublease the rented space and to discuss the process and all the fees with your landlord prior to signing the commercial lease.
DO I HAVE AN OPTION TO RENEW MY COMMERCIAL LEASE?
It’s always good to plan ahead. Let’s say that you signed a five-year commercial lease and your business is booming at the end of this term. Many businesses depend on their location and moving may result in your business losing clients. Would you really want to be forced to pack up and move to a new location, possibly disturbing business and confusing your clients? A good commercial lease attorney will always advise you to negotiate an option to renew the lease.
Rent Concession Definition
Rent concessions serve as modifications landlords make to lease agreements with the intention of attracting new tenants or keeping existing ones. Lease agreements are commonly documented in writing, specifying terms such as lease duration, mandatory security deposit, monthly rent, and any proposed incentives. A rent concession typically entails a modification or compromise in these terms – it could involve offering an item of value to the tenant or providing a temporary incentive service.
Rental concessions generally fall under two categories: those providing tangible items as a part of the lease agreement, and those offering temporary financial relief. A common type of concession is the landlord covering the tenant’s first month’s rent and any associated lease signing fees.
Here are other frequent examples:
- Discounted Rent: Landlords may propose a decrease in the rental fee for the lease term, often dependent on the tenant fulfilling the lease agreement’s terms.
- Elimination or Reduction of Security Deposit: In some cases, landlords might completely waive or reduce the security deposit, especially if the tenant relocates by a specific date.
- Relocation Expenses: Landlords may agree to bear a tenant’s moving costs, either by employing a moving company or reimbursing the tenant for their chosen relocation service.
- Upgrades: Landlords could offer to carry out improvements to the rental unit as a concession to persuade tenants to sign the lease. This scenario benefits both the tenant, who enjoys an improved living space, and the landlord, who enhances their property’s value.
- Waiver of Broker’s Fee: To draw in more tenants, landlords might agree to forgo the broker’s fee tied to renting the property. This can result in considerable savings for tenants who would otherwise need to pay a broker’s commission.
- Complimentary Amenities: If the rental property is situated in a building that has paid communal facilities or amenities, such as a pool, tennis court, laundry facilities, gym, parking space, or storage unit, landlords might offer these for free as a concession to tenants.
It is important for both the landlord and tenant to carefully review and negotiate the terms of the rent concession to ensure their rights and obligations are properly addressed. Consulting with an experienced NYC real estate attorney can greatly benefit the lease negotiation process. Schedule a consultation with Avenue Law Firm today.
| Rental Concession Examples | Description |
|---|---|
| Discounted Rent | Landlords may propose a decrease in the rental fee for the lease term, often dependent on the tenant fulfilling the lease agreement’s terms. |
| Elimination/Reduction of Security Deposit | In some cases, landlords might completely waive or reduce the security deposit, especially if the tenant relocates by a specific date. |
| Relocation Expenses | Landlords may agree to bear a tenant’s moving costs, either by employing a moving company or reimbursing the tenant for their chosen relocation service. |
| Upgrades | Landlords could offer to carry out improvements to the rental unit as a concession to persuade tenants to sign the lease. This benefits both the tenant and the landlord. |
| Waiver of Broker’s Fee | Landlords might agree to forgo the broker’s fee tied to renting the property, attracting more tenants and resulting in savings for tenants who would otherwise pay a broker’s commission. |
| Complimentary Amenities | Landlords might offer complimentary use of paid communal facilities or amenities, such as a pool, tennis court, laundry facilities, gym, parking space, or storage unit, to tenants as a concession. |
BREACH OF CONTRACT
What will happen if one party doesn’t comply with the terms of the commercial lease? Is there a procedure or timeframe for written demands before litigation? What about mediation or arbitration? If it does come down to litigation, who is responsible for attorney’s fees, etc.? Make sure that the terms are clear and fair before signing.
WILL THIS COMMERCIAL LEASE WORK FOR ME?
You may have found a perfect space, but will the lease work for you? Many commercial leases have restrictions and it’s important to consult with a real estate attorney to make sure that you will be able to run your business without breaking any of those restrictions. Will you have 24/7 access to the space? Can you place a sign? Can you renovate the space? Will your use comply with the certificate of occupancy? Are there any noise restrictions? Typically, commercial leases contain provisions that state you can’t disturb or interfere with the business operations of other tenants. For most tenants, this is not an issue. But for some, such as pre-K, recording studios, and large healthcare facilities, such provisions can be deal breakers.
Signing a commercial lease is a big step and one that you may have to live with for years or even a decade. It is a good idea to consult with an experienced real estate attorney before signing anything. Your attorney will have your best interests in mind and will often be able to work with the landlord or the landlord’s attorney to come up with terms more favorable to you and your business. Contact a reputable real estate attorney from Avenue Law Firm today by calling (212) 729-4090.
Written by Peter Zinkovetsky, Esq
