Renting Premises

Compared with purchasing premises, renting is flexible and ties up a minimal amount of capital. Most businesses rent their premises, either through a lease or a licence.

However, be on your guard. Property law can be complex and verbal agreements do not count. The golden rules are not to assume anything, and to get everything in writing.

The task of choosing suitable premises is covered in Choosing office premises.

This briefing focuses on the terms under which you occupy rented premises. It covers:

• Basic points to check.
• The main features of a licence.
• The key terms in a lease.
• How to negotiate a deal.