RICS Code promotes “constructive and collaborative” lease negotiations.
With increased uncertainty in the office market, it has never been more important to ensure the right property is occupied on a lease that works for the business now and into the future.
As an agent who has specialised in representing tenants for over 15 years, I have always been surprised that so many occupiers do not take professional advice when agreeing leases. Perhaps it is because we tend to own our own homes or just a desire to avoid a fee, but leases are generally long-term commitments and documents where tenants make pages of promises to landlords which can affect their business for many years.
With increased uncertainty in the office market, it has never been more important to ensure the right property is occupied on a lease that works for the business now and into the future.
The RICS introduced a new professional statement called the Code for Leasing Business Premises 2020. This took effect from the 1st September, compliance is mandatory for all Chartered Surveyors, and RICS regulated firms.
The new Code endeavours to promote “constructive and collaborative” lease negotiations between landlords and tenants, requiring detailed Heads of Terms to be produced and interestingly requires landlords to advise potential tenants of the existence of the Code and recommend that professional advice is taken. With the disruption to the market caused by the pandemic, it is too early to say whether this Code has changed either parties approach.
We’ve gained an enviable reputation for our knowledgeable and pragmatic approach to commercial property acquisitions. Whether you have a national property portfolio or a single unit, we’re here to help. With Jaggard Macland, you’ll be able to examine every option open to you and make the right, informed choice for your business.
Contact: Simon Harper, MRICS.
PARTNER. HEAD OF TENANT ADVISORY
DIRECT LINE: 01494 689614
MOBILE: 07801 109649
EMAIL: SRH@JAGGARDMACLAND.CO.UK