What to Know Before Signing a Commercial Lease
April 2025
Leasing space is a big step for any business. Whether you're opening your first storefront, expanding to a new office, or securing warehouse space, the lease you sign will shape both your overhead and your flexibility for years to come. It’s important to go in with a clear understanding of the terms — and what they actually mean in practice. At Moeller Law PLLC, we help business owners review and negotiate leases that align with their goals. As outsourced general counsel, we work with growing companies to identify risks, clarify obligations, and strengthen their position before signing.
What’s in the Lease Isn’t Always Obvious
Unlike residential leases, commercial leases are often customized and highly negotiable. That sounds like a benefit, but it also means there’s no standard playbook. Language around rent, taxes, insurance, and maintenance can be dense and difficult to interpret. Business owners are sometimes surprised to learn that “base rent” is only part of what they’ll be paying each month. Additional charges (“triple net”) can include property taxes, insurance, common area maintenance, and more. We’ve worked with clients who assumed they had a flat monthly rate, only to discover that the true cost of occupancy was significantly higher once these extra terms were factored in. Without a careful review, it's easy to miss the full financial picture.
Key Provisions Deserve Extra Attention
Certain clauses can carry long-term consequences. Personal guarantees, for example, make the business owner personally liable if the company defaults. Use restrictions may limit what types of services or products can be offered in the space, which can become a problem if the business evolves. Repair and maintenance obligations may shift significant costs to the tenant, including responsibility for HVAC systems, plumbing, or structural elements. These are the kinds of terms that can catch business owners off guard if they’re not addressed before signing.
Negotiating Is Expected
Landlords generally expect negotiation, even from small tenants. While not everything is up for debate, it’s common to adjust rent start dates, modify personal guarantees, or clarify ambiguous language. The key is understanding what matters most for your business and how to raise those issues in a productive way. At Moeller Law PLLC, we advise clients on what’s typical, what’s fair, and what’s worth negotiating. We help you focus on the terms that affect your operations and long-term risk, not just the headline rent.
Legal Review That Fits Your Business
We assist business owners across industries — retail, office, warehouse, fitness, and more — with lease reviews that are both thorough and efficient. Our approach is practical and focused on your goals. Whether you're leasing a first location or expanding into a new market, we help you understand your rights and risks before committing. While we offer flat-fee and hourly options, many clients benefit from an ongoing relationship where lease review is just one part of the broader legal support we provide. As fractional general counsel, we’re available to handle contracts, employment matters, and compliance as your business grows.
A commercial lease can shape your business for years. The right review helps you avoid surprises, reduce risk, and protect your investment. Don’t go into it blind. Moeller Law PLLC helps small businesses and startups navigate commercial lease terms with confidence. If you’re about to sign, or even just exploring your options, we’re happy to take a look.
Reach out to schedule a lease review or consultation.
