Short-term commercial lease
Explore how we can help businesses with their commercial lease requirements.
Contact our teamA short-term commercial lease provides businesses with the opportunity to operate in a new space without the long-term commitment that comes with traditional leases.
Whether you’re opening a pop-up shop, securing temporary office space, or testing a new location, this type of lease offers flexibility. As with any commercial property arrangement, it’s crucial to ensure that the terms of the lease are clear and fair. At Moore Barlow, we specialise in helping businesses navigate these agreements with confidence, ensuring that every lease aligns with your goals and protects your commercial interests.
Short-term leases are typically chosen by businesses seeking temporary arrangements—perhaps for seasonal operations or market testing. These leases can last anywhere from a few months to a couple of years, providing the flexibility to move or adapt as your business evolves. However, with the convenience of a short term lease comes the need for careful negotiation. Understanding the specific rights and obligations within a short-term lease is essential, especially when it comes to rent, renewal options, and responsibilities for property maintenance.
What is a short-term commercial lease?
A short-term commercial lease is a rental agreement for a business that typically lasts for less than two years. These leases are ideal for businesses that require temporary space, such as retailers opening a pop-up store, companies needing short-term office space, or start-ups looking to test a location. While they offer flexibility, short-term leases also require careful consideration, as the shorter time frame may come with specific conditions such as early termination clauses.
The benefit of these leases lies in their adaptability, but it’s crucial to understand all the conditions before signing. Unlike longer leases, there may be less security around rent stability or renewal options, making it important to seek legal advice to ensure the lease suits your business strategy.
Richard Hughes
Partner | Commercial Property, Real Estate, Real Estate Finance
How short can a commercial lease be?
A commercial lease can be as short as a few months, depending on the agreement between the landlord and tenant. There is no minimum legal duration, so short-term leases, known as “tenancies at will” or “short-term licences”, can be arranged for flexible, temporary occupation.
How we can help
Moore Barlow’s commercial property team provides expert support throughout the lease process. We understand the nuances of short-term commercial leases and ensure that your agreement is clear, fair, and tailored to your business’s needs. Our services include creating short term commercial lease agreements, reviewing lease terms, negotiating rent or break clauses, and ensuring all responsibilities—whether for repairs, utilities, or insurance—are clearly defined and fair.
We can also help ensure that renewal options are straightforward and that there are no hidden costs or terms that could impact your business in the future. Our goal is to protect your interests while providing the flexibility your business needs to grow and adapt.
Why choose Moore Barlow?
At Moore Barlow, we pride ourselves on providing clear, practical legal advice tailored to your specific situation. Our vast experience with commercial leases, combined with our client-focused approach, ensures that we not only protect your business interests but also help you navigate complex lease terms with confidence. Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, our team works to ensure that your short-term lease agreement is legally sound and aligned with your commercial objectives.
We understand the importance of flexibility in today’s commercial landscape, and our goal is to make sure your lease agreement reflects that flexibility without compromising on key protections.
Who we support
We work with a wide range of clients, including small businesses, retail operators, start-ups, and larger corporations that require flexible leasing arrangements. Whether you’re looking to lease space temporarily or are a landlord offering short-term leases, we offer tailored legal solutions to fit your specific needs.
Our expertise spans multiple sectors, ensuring that no matter your industry, we can help you navigate the intricacies of a short-term lease agreement.
Contact us
If you’re considering a short-term commercial lease or need advice on an existing agreement, Moore Barlow’s expert team is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your needs, and let us provide the clear, strategic advice you need to secure the right lease for your business. With Moore Barlow by your side, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your lease is carefully crafted to support your success.
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
