We serve both landlords and tenants in commercial, industrial and retail leasing situations in Brisbane, including shops, offices, medical spaces, hospitality, retail, restaurants, training and industrial parks.
A Commercial Lease is also known as a Commercial Tenancy Agreement. It is a legally binding contract between the business owner (tenant or lessee) and property owner (landlord or lessor).
At A.L.F. Lawyers, our experienced commercial lease lawyers in Brisbane understand the significance of an enforceable lease, which can be crucial in protecting your interests and avoiding costly disputes.
We draft leases that cater to both landlords and tenants, ensuring they are designed to safeguard our clients’ best interests. Our team prioritises efficiency and works closely with you, your real estate agent, and the opposing party’s solicitors to finalise agreements promptly and effectively.
With our up-to-date knowledge of the Retail Shop Leasing Act, we ensure your lease complies with all relevant statutory laws, helping you avoid potential pitfalls. A well-drafted lease is essential to preserving your business’s value and goodwill, and we are committed to delivering leases that add value to your business.
Don’t risk the future of your business with a poorly drafted lease. Let us demonstrate how our legal expertise can protect and enhance your business.
The article below gives you some principles to consider when entering into a Lease either as the Landlord or the Tenant.
A commercial lease or tenancy agreement is a legally binding arrangement granting a tenant exclusive possession of a property or part of a property for an agreed period in exchange for rent or other consideration.
The landlord retains ownership of the property while granting the tenant rights to occupy and operate from the premises under the terms of the lease agreement.
Commercial leases may apply to vacant land, offices, retail premises, industrial buildings, or sections of larger commercial properties.
Below are some of the basic aspects of a Commercial Lease agreement for Queensland commercial property which the landlord and tenant should consider:
The lease should clearly specify the commencement date, duration, and any renewal periods.
The agreement should outline whether GST is payable in addition to rent and other charges.
Where the tenant is a company, landlords may require personal guarantees from directors or related parties.
Requirements relating to signage and landlord approval should be clearly documented.
The lease should explain how outgoings and operational expenses are calculated and charged.
The agreement should outline rent amounts, annual increases, CPI adjustments, or review methods.
Some leases may require refurbishment or reinstatement of the premises during or at the end of the lease term.
Accurate property descriptions are important, particularly for registered leases or financed properties.
The lease may require bank guarantees, bonds, or other security arrangements.
Certain leases may allow landlords to relocate tenants within a commercial complex.
The lease should clarify responsibility for electricity, water, internet, and other services.
Insurance requirements for tenants and landlords should be clearly detailed within the agreement.
The agreement should outline rights and obligations in the event of tenant default or breach.
Parking entitlements for staff, customers, and visitors should be clearly addressed.
Renewal options and associated notice requirements should be properly documented.
When handling commercial tenancy matters, many overlook the importance of ensuring that the tenant is a suitable fit for the premises and financially capable of meeting their obligations, such as rent, outgoings, and other costs throughout the lease term.
While letting agents may assist in introducing prospective tenants and handling initial negotiations, they may not assess the tenant’s financial viability.
At A.L.F. Lawyers, we believe securing the right tenant is crucial—it’s not just about filling the space but finding a tenant who can uphold their commitments.
At A.L.F. Lawyers, we help protect your assets and rental income streams. Our experienced team can assist with preparing new leases, negotiating terms, lease assignments, breach resolutions, lease extensions, amendments, surrenders, and recovering unpaid rent.
Having a Commercial Lawyer review your lease before you sign can help you understand and negotiate terms that protect your business. Talk to our commercial lawyers and gain clear, practical advice for your business and commercial matters.
As part of our appointment:
Whether you are a landlord, tenant, business owner, or property investor, our experienced commercial lawyers are ready to assist with practical legal advice tailored to your situation.
Typically ranging between 12 and 36 months, short-term leases offer flexibility but may provide limited long-term security.
Long-term leases provide greater stability but may require registration where lease terms exceed three years.
Retail shop leases in Queensland are governed by specific legislation designed to provide additional protections for tenants within retail shopping environments.
Chantal Bush is the Managing Director of A.L.F. Lawyers, bringing more than 17 years of experience across property law, conveyancing, family law, wills and estates, and commercial matters. Based on Brisbane’s northside in Strathpine, Chantal leads a firm built on a simple principle: we work for you because we care.
Over her career, Chantal has guided thousands of clients through some of the most significant moments of their lives, from buying or selling a home to navigating family separation, protecting their assets, and planning for the future. She is known for taking the time to genuinely understand each client’s situation, explaining the law in plain English, and offering clear, practical advice focused on the outcome that matters most to them.
Whether your matter is simple or complex, Chantal and her team are committed to providing compassionate, professional support at every step.