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Negotiating an industrial lease: tips for small business owners

On Behalf of | Apr 12, 2023 | Business & Commercial Law

As a small business owner, you have put in a lot of work to establish and grow your business. You want to ensure that you have a suitable location to operate from and get the best deal possible. However, negotiating an industrial lease can be a complex and overwhelming process, especially if you are unfamiliar with legal jargon and market trends. The tips below can help you navigate the negotiation process and secure a favorable lease.

Do your research

Before entering any negotiation, it is essential to do your research. This includes understanding the current market rates for industrial properties in your area and any applicable laws and regulations. This knowledge will help you negotiate from a position of strength and ensure you get a fair deal.

Understand the lease terms

Industrial leases can contain many complex terms and provisions that may be unfamiliar to small business owners. Before signing any lease agreement, it is crucial to fully understand the terms and how they may impact your business. Doing research can help you with this, but if you find some legal jargon challenging to comprehend, you may also consider seeking an attorney’s help.

Consider your long-term needs

When negotiating an industrial lease, it is fundamental to consider your long-term needs. Weigh factors such as the property size, the lease term length and any expansion or relocation plans you may have in the future. Negotiating for flexibility in these areas can help ensure that your lease agreement is a good fit for your business in the long run.

Negotiate for tenant improvements

Tenant improvements, or renovations made to the property by the tenant, can be an essential consideration when negotiating an industrial lease. These can help ensure that the property is tailored to your business’s specific needs and can even increase the property’s overall value. Be sure to negotiate for a fair allocation of costs between the property owner and the tenant.

Negotiating a lease agreement is just one of the many things any business owner must take care of. Though it may be hard to secure a favorable lease, by researching, understanding the lease terms and considering your long-term needs, you can settle an agreement that meets your business needs.