When you’re starting or expanding a business, signing a commercial lease is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Whether you’re opening a new café, renting an office space, or setting up a warehouse, the details in your lease can have long-term effects on your success. That’s why careful negotiation—guided by the right legal advice—can make all the difference.

L. Johnson Law regularly helps business owners understand and negotiate commercial leases that protect their interests and set them up for stability and growth.

The Basics of a Commercial Lease

A commercial lease isn’t just about paying rent—it’s a legally binding contract that outlines every aspect of how you can use a property. Unlike residential leases, which tend to be standardized, commercial agreements are often customized, and the terms can vary widely between landlords.

You’ll often see terms like base rent, additional rent, and triple-net lease. Base rent covers the use of the space, while additional rent may include property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. In a triple-net lease, the tenant takes on those extra costs directly. Understanding these details helps Surrey business owners avoid surprises later—especially when planning long-term budgets.

Key Points to Negotiate Before Signing

Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s worth reviewing the main areas where negotiation can save you time, money, and stress.

Rent and Increases: Make sure you understand how rent will change over time. Annual rent escalations can add up quickly, so it’s important to negotiate fair limits or caps.

Maintenance and Repairs: Clarify which party is responsible for maintaining heating, plumbing, and exterior structures. Some landlords include maintenance in rent, while others pass costs directly to tenants.

Tenant Improvements: If you’re planning renovations or need to customize the space, determine who pays for those upgrades and whether ownership of the improvements stays with you or the landlord.

Renewal and Termination: Life happens, and business plans can shift. Having clear options for renewal, subleasing, or early termination gives you flexibility without legal headaches down the road.

Taking the time to negotiate these terms—ideally with the help of a Surrey commercial lease lawyer—can prevent misunderstandings and ensure the lease supports your business goals.

Learn More: Why Surrey Businesses Need a Solid Shareholder Agreement

Common Mistakes Surrey Business Owners Should Avoid

Many business owners are eager to move into their new space and start operations, but rushing through the lease process can be risky. Some common pitfalls include:

Signing without legal review. Even seemingly simple agreements can contain clauses that favour the landlord or limit your flexibility.

Overlooking zoning regulations. Make sure the property is zoned for your intended use—this can prevent costly disputes with the city or landlord later.

Ignoring personal guarantees. Many landlords require business owners to personally guarantee the lease, meaning you could be held responsible if your company can’t pay rent. Always understand the full implications before signing.

A business lawyer in Surrey can help spot these red flags early, negotiate changes, and ensure your lease terms are practical and enforceable.

Why Work with a Surrey Business Lawyer

Every lease has fine print, and small details can carry big consequences. Working with a commercial real estate lawyer in Surrey gives you peace of mind knowing your agreement protects your best interests.

We review commercial leases with a focus on clarity, fairness, and long-term protection. We help clients identify hidden costs, confirm zoning compliance, and negotiate terms that align with their business plans. Our local experience also means we understand Surrey’s market trends and common landlord practices, allowing us to provide realistic, strategic advice.

If you’re considering a new lease or renewal, get professional advice before signing. Contact us today for practical legal support that helps you make confident, informed decisions about your business property.

Welcome Darryl Way to Our Legal Team

We are very pleased to announce that Darryl Way has joined our firm as an associate lawyer effective July 7, 2025.

Darryl obtained his law degree from University of Victoria in 2014 and was called to the British Columbia Bar in 2020. He completed Articles at the law firm of Schmidt & Gilmour Tax Law LLP. He most recently spent several years working on civil litigation matters with a firm in Richmond. Darryl also has experience working as a tax preparer, CRA agent, and Policy Analyst for Technical Safety BC. He completed a Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Arts at the University of Alberta prior to law school.

Darryl’s practice will focus on litigation and dispute resolution matters, including society issues, estate litigation, employment dismissals, and human rights files.

The growth in our firm is a direct reflection of the growth and success of our valuable clients and the many referrals that you have provided. We appreciate the trust you have placed in our firm to provide legal services to you and your recommendation of our firm to others.  We look forward to opportunities to be of greater service with Darryl as part of our team.

Luke Johnson