Lease Renewal Property Occupier FAQs

When should I start preparing for a forthcoming lease expiry?

18 months before the expiry date would not be too early. A tenant will need to consider whether the premises remains suitable for their business and if relocation is contemplated then considerable forward planning is required before the expiry date. Allsop’s Leasing teams can assist here. Dilapidations implications may well arise in these circumstances and we are experienced in advising on both the valuation and legal aspects of such claims.

What do I do if I receive a Section 25 Notices?

A Section 25 Notice must be in a prescribed form. It is vital that the content of this notice is carefully checked straight away, do not ignore the notice.

The Section 25 Notice will also tell you if your landlord intends to oppose a tenancy renewal; there are specific grounds where this is permitted such as for redevelopment purposes or for his own use. You may need to plan an unexpected move. We can refer you to our Office Leasing Team to help you with this.

If the landlord wishes to keep his tenant after the lease expiry but on new lease terms, again a Section 25 Notice will need to set out proposed terms. We can advise you on these terms.

Why should we appoint a lease consultant for the lease renewal process?

Where the tenant has the protection of the Landlord & Tenant Act 1954 then strict procedures must be adhered to. Strategic timing of the notices and counter notices will improve the party’s position and as market conditions are a deciding factor in determining the strategy, a lease consultant is the most effective person in the process to achieve this aim.