A commercial lease is usually a business’s largest fixed obligation after payroll, and one of a property owner’s most valuable assets. Unlike residential leases, commercial leases receive little statutory protection: what the document says is, for the most part, what you get. Reams Law represents landlords and tenants in commercial lease negotiation, drafting, and disputes. Call (405) 285-6878.

For tenants

• Lease review before signing. A plain-language explanation of what you are agreeing to and what should be changed.
• Negotiation of rent and escalations, operating expense and common-area maintenance (CAM) charges and caps, tenant improvement allowances, and free-rent periods.
• Limits on personal guaranties, including caps and burn-off provisions.
• Use, exclusivity, and signage rights.
• Exit rights: assignment and subletting, early termination, and renewal options.
• Repair and replacement obligations, especially for roofs, HVAC, and parking lots.

For landlords

• Lease forms tailored to retail, office, industrial, and mixed-use properties;
• Negotiation with prospective tenants and their counsel;
• Guaranties, security deposits, and letters of credit;
• Amendments, renewals, assignments, and estoppel certificates;
• Subordination and non-disturbance agreements with lenders;
• Default notices, workouts, and lease terminations.

Lease disputes

We advise both sides on CAM reconciliation disputes, repair and maintenance responsibilities, alleged defaults, holdover, casualty and condemnation clauses, and lease buyouts. Many of these disputes can be resolved by a clear reading of the lease and a negotiated amendment.

When to call

The best time is before the letter of intent is signed, when the major economic terms are still open. The second-best time is before the lease is signed. After that, your leverage is what the document gives you.

Related services

See Real Estate, Land Use & Zoning, and Business Services.

Talk to Reams Law

Call (405) 285-6878 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

This page provides general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not make anyone a client of this firm. Laws change, and the right approach depends on the specific facts.