Renting commercial property

Your financial commitments when renting business property can include:

• a premium to purchase the lease
• rental costs
• service charges
• utility bills
• maintenance and repair bills
• a deposit - typically equivalent to three or six months' rent
• stamp duty, which is payable on all commercial leases
• business rates - estimate your rate bill

Normally, the landlord will request references to confirm you are able to pay your rent and meet your rates liability. You may find it helpful to have a guarantor for your rent and other liabilities under the lease.

Energy costs for rental properties

All landlords of commercial buildings must provide prospective tenants with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). An EPC indicates how energy efficient a building and its services are and can act as a gauge of likely energy costs. See Energy Performance Certificates for business properties.

Air conditioning and heating systems can have a significant effect on your overall energy bills. You can make substantial savings by keeping these well-maintained and having them inspected often by a qualified engineer. See use heating and hot water systems efficiently.