Licence to assign
Explore how we can help businesses with their legal requirements around property and land.
Contact our teamIf you are a tenant looking to transfer your lease to another party or a landlord overseeing this process, a licence to assign is essential.
This legal document gives consent to the outgoing tenant to transfer their leasehold interest to a new tenant. At our firm, we specialise in helping both landlords and tenants navigate the complexities of this process smoothly and efficiently.
Whether you need advice on how to draft or obtain a licence to assign, or you want to ensure all legal obligations are met, we are here to help. Our experienced commercial property solicitors offer clear, practical advice to make the process straightforward and minimise any risks involved.
What is a licence to assign?
A licence to assign is a legal document that grants a tenant permission from their landlord to transfer their lease to a new tenant. Most commercial leases include a clause that prevents tenants from assigning their lease without the landlord’s consent. The licence to assign formalises this consent, setting out the conditions under which the landlord agrees to the assignment.
This document confirms the landlord is satisfied with the new tenant’s ability to meet the obligations of the lease, such as paying rent and maintaining the property. The landlord will often conduct financial and background checks on the incoming tenant before granting the licence. The terms of the licence may also include the outgoing tenant remaining liable for certain obligations, through an Authorised Guarantee Agreement (AGA), after the assignment.

Richard Hughes
Partner | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Real Estate Finance
How we can help
At our firm, we provide comprehensive legal support throughout the licence to assign process. We can help you by:
- Drafting and reviewing: We ensure the licence is clear, legally compliant, and protects your interests.
- Negotiations: We assist with negotiations between tenants and landlords to reach favourable terms.
- Advice on AGAs: If required, we provide guidance on Authorised Guarantee Agreements to ensure all parties understand their responsibilities.
- Compliance checks: We help ensure all legal and regulatory obligations are met during the assignment process.
Our goal is to make the transfer of a lease as smooth and stress-free as possible, while ensuring that all legal protections are in place.
Meet our real estate finance experts
Who we help
We offer our services to a wide range of clients:
- Tenants: If you are a tenant looking to assign your lease, we can guide you through the process, ensuring you meet all your obligations and avoid future liabilities.
- Landlords: We work with landlords to ensure that the incoming tenant is financially secure and that the licence to assign protects their interests.
- Incoming tenants: If you’re taking over an existing lease, we provide advice on the terms and conditions, helping you understand your rights and obligations under the lease.
Contact us
If you need assistance with a licence to assign or have any questions, get in touch with our experienced commercial property team. We are here to offer expert guidance and ensure the process runs smoothly. Contact us today by calling us or filling out our online enquiry form, and one of our solicitors will get back to you promptly.
Contact our commercial property team
FAQs – Licence to assign
When is a licence to assign required?
A licence to assign is required when a tenant wants to transfer their lease to another party. Most commercial leases include a clause that requires the landlord’s consent before the lease can be assigned.
How long does the licence to assign process take?
The process typically takes between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the lease and the speed of negotiations between the landlord, tenant, and incoming tenant.
What happens if the landlord refuses consent?
A landlord cannot unreasonably withhold consent for a licence to assign. If they refuse, they must provide valid reasons, typically related to the suitability of the incoming tenant.
Explore our commercial property legal insights
Commercial property & development brochure
Explore our commercial property and development legal services, helping businesses to prosper.