Double net lease: commercial leasing
Explore how we can help businesses with their commercial lease requirements.
Contact our teamA double net lease, also known as an NN lease, strikes a balance in commercial property transactions by distributing certain costs between the landlord and the tenant.
In this lease structure, tenants pay not only the base rent but also cover the property taxes and insurance premiums, while the landlord retains responsibility for the building’s structural maintenance. This type of lease provides tenants with a clear understanding of their financial obligations, while landlords still maintain control over essential repairs and upkeep of their building.
For businesses and landlords alike, a double net lease can offer both flexibility and clarity. Tenants benefit from greater control over certain costs, while landlords enjoy the relief of shared expenses without fully relinquishing management of their property.
What is a double net lease?
A double net lease is a commercial agreement where tenants take on two key financial obligations beyond their rent: property taxes and insurance premiums. The landlord remains responsible for the maintenance and repair of the property’s external and structural parts. This type of lease is commonly used in multi-tenant buildings, such as shopping centres or office complexes, where it is practical for tenants to share operational expenses without being burdened with significant repair costs.
This arrangement ensures that tenants contribute to the building’s operational expenses but are not liable for large, unforeseen maintenance costs, which are covered by the landlord. Meanwhile, landlords can offload some recurring costs, such as taxes and insurance, without transferring the full burden of property upkeep.
Richard Hughes
Partner | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Real Estate Finance
How Moore Barlow can assist with double net leases
At Moore Barlow, we work closely with both landlords and tenants to ensure that every double net lease is clear, fair, and aligned with the business needs of both parties. We draft and review leases to make sure that the terms of property taxes, insurance responsibilities, and structural maintenance obligations are set out clearly. Our goal is to help avoid any ambiguity that might lead to future disputes. We also provide ongoing support throughout the lease term, ensuring that any issues regarding costs or repairs are resolved efficiently and fairly.
Whether you are a tenant looking to secure clear terms on your financial obligations or a landlord aiming to reduce your management responsibilities while safeguarding your property, Moore Barlow offers the legal expertise needed to guide you through the process.
Why choose Moore Barlow for your double net lease?
At Moore Barlow, we pride ourselves on offering practical, tailored legal advice. Our deep understanding of commercial property law and our experience with double net leases means we can foresee potential challenges and address them proactively. We focus on providing clarity in every lease, ensuring that both tenants and landlords fully understand their obligations and that the lease reflects their best interests. Our approach is built on attention to detail and transparency, ensuring that every aspect of the double net lease is carefully drafted to avoid misunderstandings down the line.
We know that each lease is different, and we take the time to work with you to ensure the lease fits your specific requirements. Whether you are seeking to limit financial exposure as a tenant or reduce your property management burden as a landlord, our goal is to structure the lease in a way that supports your long-term success.
Who we help
Our team works with a wide range of clients involved in commercial leasing, from small businesses renting office or retail spaces to landlords managing large property portfolios. We offer expert legal support to both parties in a double net lease, ensuring that the agreement benefits everyone involved. Our clients include tenants seeking flexibility in their financial obligations and landlords who want to ensure that operational costs are shared fairly without compromising the property’s upkeep.
Get in touch with us
If you are considering a double net lease or need advice on an existing agreement, Moore Barlow is here to help. Our commercial property lawyers have the experience and knowledge to guide you through the complexities of double net leasing, ensuring your lease is well-structured and secure. Contact us today to discuss how we can support you in creating a lease that meets your needs and protects your interests for the future.
Contact our commercial property team
Meet our team of commercial property solicitors
Jo Farr
Partner | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Land Development, Real Estate Finance
Richard Hughes
Partner | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Real Estate Finance
Julian Parkes
Partner | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Landed Estates and Farming
Callum Leary
Partner | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Real Estate Finance
Nellie van der Lande
Senior Associate | Commercial Property, Real Estate Finance, Rural Services
Sam Ho
Senior Associate | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Real Estate Finance
Sharon Mays
Senior Associate | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Land Development, Real Estate Finance
Nicola Donnelly
Associate | Real Estate, Plot Sales, Residential Property
Fiona Hampton
Chartered Legal Executive | Commercial Property, Land Development, Plot Sales
Helen Archibald
Consultant | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Land Development
Janice Taylor
Conveyancing Executive | Real Estate, Plot Sales, Residential Property
