Build to suit lease
Explore how we can help businesses with their commercial lease requirements.
Contact our teamA build to suit lease is a customised leasing arrangement where the landlord constructs or modifies a property specifically to meet the tenant’s needs. This type of lease is ideal for businesses that require unique features or layouts for their operations, such as retail spaces, office buildings, or industrial facilities. By collaborating with the landlord during the construction phase, the tenant ensures the space is designed exactly to their specifications, from the ground up.
At Moore Barlow, we understand the importance of getting every detail right in a build to suit lease.
These arrangements are more complex than standard leases, requiring careful planning and clear agreements on timelines, costs, and responsibilities. We guide both landlords and tenants through the entire process, ensuring that the terms reflect the specific needs and expectations of both parties.
What is a build to suit lease and how does it work?
A build to suit lease involves a landlord developing a property specifically for the tenant’s business requirements. Unlike traditional leases, where the tenant moves into an already constructed space, a build to suit lease involves close collaboration between the landlord and tenant from the design stage through to the completion of the building. The landlord finances the construction, and the tenant typically agrees to a long-term lease, ensuring that both parties benefit from the investment.
This type of lease is particularly advantageous for businesses that need custom-built features, whether that’s a specialised layout, energy-efficient technology, or enhanced infrastructure to support operations. The tenant gains a space perfectly suited to their needs without the upfront cost of fitting out a property or property development, while the landlord secures a long-term tenant, often with rental rates designed to recoup the development investment.
Richard Hughes
Partner | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Real Estate Finance
How Moore Barlow can assist with your build to suit lease
At Moore Barlow, we recognise that build to suit leases involve significant financial commitments and detailed planning. We provide tailored legal advice to ensure both landlords and tenants fully understand their rights and obligations. Our team supports clients through every stage of the process, from negotiating the initial terms to addressing construction timelines, design approvals, and cost allocations.
For tenants, we ensure that the lease clearly outlines the landlord’s construction responsibilities, delivery timelines, and any penalties for delays. For landlords, we make sure the lease protects your investment and provides a fair return on the development costs. We focus on structuring a lease that minimises risk and ensures a smooth project delivery and transition to the commencement of the tenancy.
Why choose us for your build to suit lease?
Our experienced commercial property team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process when it comes to complex leasing arrangements such as build to suit leases. We understand the unique challenges posed by these types of leases, from ensuring construction aligns with both parties’ expectations to defining responsibilities for potential cost overruns or delays. Our proactive approach helps prevent issues from arising, ensuring that the lease is designed to protect both the tenant’s operational needs and the landlord’s financial interests.
By working closely with both landlords and tenants, we ensure the lease is comprehensive and fair, providing clarity on everything from construction timelines to long-term lease terms. With Moore Barlow, you can be confident that your build to suit lease will be structured to promote a successful partnership and safeguard your interests.
Who benefits from build to suit leases?
Build to suit leases are ideal for businesses that require specific customisations in their workspace, such as large corporations, manufacturers, and retailers with unique operational needs. These leases are also beneficial for landlords who want to secure a long-term tenant while creating a space that is purpose-built for the business, increasing the value and utility of the property.
We work with a wide range of clients, from property developers and investors to businesses seeking a space tailored to their operations. Our expertise ensures that both parties achieve their goals, whether that’s creating a bespoke commercial space or securing a stable, long-term tenant.
Contact us today
If you’re considering a build to suit lease or need advice on an existing lease, Moore Barlow’s commercial property team is here to help. Our experienced solicitors provide the legal expertise you need to navigate this complex leasing arrangement, ensuring the lease is tailored to your business needs and protects your long-term interests. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and find out how we can support you in creating a lease that works for both landlord and tenant.
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
