Investigate a business premises lease

A lease is a legally binding contract, so it's important to thoroughly investigate the premises and lease document before you sign.

Take your time

Give yourself plenty of time to research suitable locations, investigate potential leases and ask questions.

After finding the ideal location, you may want, or the landlord may encourage you, to sign the lease immediately to secure your right to the premises. Make sure you understand all terms and conditions before you sign, as it may be difficult to get out of a lease if you change your mind. You shouldn't feel pressured into signing a lease before you are ready.

Read a legal guide to business leases from the Queensland Law Society.

Get help from experts

Ask experts for advice to help you avoid any legal or financial problems associated with the lease.

• Solicitor or legal adviser – explain lease clauses, give legal advice, draft new clauses, negotiate terms and conditions to suit you.
• Financial adviser or accountant – review your expected cash flow so you know how much you can afford to spend leasing premises.
• Insurance company – discuss insurance-related clauses so you fully understand what is covered by the lease.
• Industry associations – provide leasing advice specific to your industry or sector.

Learn more about working with business advisers.

Speak to your local council

Councils in Queensland regulate business activities. Ask your local council if your business can operate in your desired location. Also consider the council's development plans for the area you are considering.

Choose between multiple locations

If you have a shortlist of locations, examining the lease documents will help you compare the premises. If your business needs a high traffic flow of potential clients past your door, you can expect to pay a higher rent. Lower rents may indicate the value of the property (which is often based on the volume of passing traffic) is low.

Also consider...

• Read the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994.
• Learn more about retail shop leases.
• Read the Retail Shop Leases Regulation 2016
• Find industrial land for lease.