Commercial Lease Extensions Solicitors
If you do have a commercial lease, it is vital to know your rights in extending your lease and terminating it if necessary.
Part II of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 (LTA) provides commercial leaseholders with ‘security of tenure’. This means your commercial lease will not automatically end upon expiry of the contractual term; and your lease will only come to an end if the termination provisions within Part II of the LTA 1954 have been followed. If the contractual term of your lease expires, you will be able to renew your lease on substantially the same terms as specified in the original (save for rent), by way of a statutory renewal.
It should be noted however, that security of tenure can be removed from a lease through a procedure known as ‘contracting out’, and therefore not all leases have this renewal ability.
The process of renewal can be triggered in the following ways:
Firstly, your landlord may serve a Section 25 Notice upon you.
Secondly, you could start the process by serving the landlord with a Section 26 Notice.
If you receive a Section 25 Notice or wish to serve a Section 26 Notice, we would strongly recommend that you obtain independent legal advice so that you are aware of your rights going forward. Such notices must be drafted correctly and must be served within the correct strict time limits. Receiving such legal advice could therefore save you both time and costs in the long term and also preserve your relationship with the other party.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A commercial lease extension is an agreement between a landlord and tenant to extend the length of an existing business lease. It gives the tenant continued security of occupation and can help protect the value of the business. Our commercial lease extension solicitors advise both landlords and tenants on renewal rights, negotiation, and legal documentation.
You can extend a commercial lease either by mutual agreement or through the formal process set out in the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 . The process usually starts when the tenant serves a Section 26 request (for renewal) or the landlord serves a Section 25 notice (to terminate or offer new terms). Your solicitor will guide you through the correct steps, deadlines, and documentation to protect your position.
If your lease is protected by the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, you generally have the right to renew your tenancy at the end of the term — unless your landlord can prove specific legal grounds for refusing. A business lease renewal lawyer can confirm whether your lease is protected and help you negotiate fair renewal terms.
No. Some leases specifically exclude the protection of the 1954 Act, often referred to as “contracting out.” In these cases, the landlord is not obliged to renew. Your solicitor can review your lease and advise whether you have renewal rights or need to negotiate a new agreement.
It’s best to start discussions at least 12 months before your lease ends . Early negotiation allows time to agree terms, assess rent proposals, and avoid disruption to your business. Late action could limit your options or lead to a loss of renewal rights.
If your lease is protected under the 1954 Act, your landlord can only refuse renewal for specific legal reasons — such as redevelopment plans or breaches of lease terms. Your solicitor can challenge an invalid refusal and, if necessary, apply to the court to protect your right to remain in the premises.
Rent is usually determined by market value, taking into account location, condition, and comparable local properties. If you and your landlord can’t agree, an independent surveyor or the court may determine a fair rent. Legal advice early in the process can help secure the best possible terms.
Yes. A lease extension provides an opportunity to renegotiate key terms such as rent, repair obligations, break clauses, or permitted use. A lease negotiation lawyer can help you secure terms that better suit your business needs and reduce future risks.
Timelines vary depending on negotiation, complexity, and whether both parties agree on terms. Straightforward renewals may complete in a few weeks, while disputed cases can take several months. Your solicitor will manage the process and keep you informed at every stage.
Yes. Our commercial property solicitors act for landlords and tenants across Essex, London and Cornwall and nationwide. Whether you’re renewing, extending, or negotiating a business lease, we’ll ensure your legal and commercial interests are fully protected.
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Paul Robinson Solicitors is a thriving independent law firm committed to providing exceptional service to clients nationwide, with offices situated throughout London, Essex and Cornwall.
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