Don’t Sign That Lease Just Yet! How a Summary Lease Review Could Save Your Dream Business

For many entrepreneurs, signing a commercial lease is one of the biggest commitments they’ll ever make. For small- or first-time business owners, not only is true, but we find they are often confused by legal jargon, put off the prospect of expensive solicitors bills – that often cost more than the first months’ rent. But behind the Pinterest board of ideas and the friendly landlord, are lease terms, that could put your entire business or your personal assets at risk.

Sophie’s Story: From Dream Salon to Potential Disaster

Sophie had finally achieved her dream – after years as a beautician, she was ready to open her own salon. She’d found the perfect premises: a bright, modern space on a busy high street with great footfall. The rent was manageable, the location ideal, and the landlord seemed friendly and keen to get things moving, indicating that others were interested in the premises too.

But when Sophie received the commercial lease, she hesitated, she didn’t really understand a lot of the terms but can’t afford to pay a solicitor by the hour to review and negotiate her lease. On top of which this would add delays – allowing someone else to rent her salon.

The landlord and agent seemed trustworthy – what could go wrong? Unfortunately, quite a lot.

The Hidden Dangers in a Commercial Lease

Without a proper lease review, business owners can be caught out by clauses that seem harmless but have serious long-term consequences, such as:

1. Full Repairing Lease Responsibilities: Depending on your repairing obligations within the lease, if the property floods or the roof leaks, you could be responsible for all repairs — even those caused by long-term wear or structural faults that existed before you moved in.
2. No Break Clause: What if your business struggles, or you want to relocate? Without a break clause there may be no way for you to be able to end the lease before the end of the term. This means you could be locked into paying rent and being responsible for the condition of the property for years – even if you’ve stopped trading.
3. Misleading Property Details: That “extra parking” the landlord mentioned? If it’s not written into the lease, you have no legal right to use it or you may not have adequate right of access to the property. These issues might sound minor at first, but they can make or break a small business and could cause issues if you try and sell your lease.
4. Rent Increases: the Landlord may include a rent review provision which allows for the rent to be increased every few years. It is important that you understand how and when the rent may be increased.
5. Hidden Costs: What has the Landlord included as ‘rent’ within the lease? Is there VAT payable on top of the rent amount? Is there service charge payable? It is important you are aware of all costs that you will be liable to pay. If you cannot meet any of the payments then the Landlord may be able to take back possession of the property.

The Smart Middle Ground: A Fixed-Fee Summary Lease Review

You don’t need to choose between paying high hourly fees and signing blind. At Attwells Solicitors, we created the Summary Lease Review service – designed specifically for small business owners, franchisees, and start-ups who need clear, fast, and affordable legal advice.

Here’s what you’ll get:

• Fast Turnaround: Your lease is reviewed within 3–4 working days.
• Fixed Fee of £1,349: No hidden costs or hourly billing.
• Convenient Upload: Submit your lease 24/7 through our secure website.
• Clear, Practical Advice: We highlight key risks, clauses, and red flags that could impact your business or finances.

It’s everything you need to move forward confidently – without costly surprises later.

Why Business Owners Trust Attwells Solicitors

As one of the UK’s leading property and commercial law firms, Attwells has helped thousands of business owners review, negotiate, and sign leases with confidence.

Our team specialises in plain-English advice, fast communication, and complete transparency. Whether you’re opening a café, salon, retail shop, or office, we’ll help ensure your lease works for you — not against you.

Don’t Let Fine Print Derail Your Business Dreams

For Sophie, a quick, affordable summary lease review could have saved her from years of financial stress. Before you sign your lease, take the smart step: get a Summary Lease Review by Attwells Solicitors.  Upload your lease today and receive your Summary Lease Review in just a few days.