Commercial Leases

Commercial Leases

Trusted Commercial Lease Advice for Landlords and Tenants in Gippsland

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Entering into or granting a commercial lease is a significant business decision. At Wakefield Lawyers, we help clients navigate the complex framework of what lease terms you need in your commercial lease, to ensure that it is clear fair, and commercially sound. We can determine whether your lease falls within the Retail Leases Act 2003 (Vic), and the overriding requirements that are involved with that.

We’ve drafted and reviewed hundreds of commercial leases for shops, industrial buildings, cafes, beauty salons, franchises, and service providers across Gippsland and beyond. Whether you're a first-time tenant or a seasoned landlord, we can help.

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For Landlords – Protect Your Investment with a Professionally Drafted Retail Lease

Letting out a commercial premises without the right legal protections can expose you to unnecessary risk.

We assist retail landlords by:

• Drafting lease agreements that comply with the Retail Leases Act and other Victorian regulations, as applicable;
• Preparing disclosure statements and information brochures;
• Advising on rent calculation, annual increases, and market reviews;
• Setting up agreement to lease documents for premises still under construction or fit-out;
• Advising on repair, maintenance, and outgoings provisions;
• Issuing notices of breach or default;
• Representing you in mediations through the Victorian Small Business Commission (VSBC).

Our focus is on helping you minimise risk while securing a steady and manageable relationship with your tenant.

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For Tenants – Entering a Lease with Confidence

Signing a lease is often one of the biggest commitments you'll make as a business owner. A well-negotiated lease can offer stability, while a poorly understood one can cause costly challenges.

We support tenants by:

• Reviewing proposed commercial leases and explaining all legal jargon in plain English;
• Negotiating key terms such as rent, options to renew, fit-out periods, and termination rights;
• Advising on lease assignment and subletting;
• Securing landlord consent for the transfer of lease when selling a business;
• Interpreting provisions of the Retail Leases Act and your lease;
• Advising during disputes or breakdowns in the landlord–tenant relationship.

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Additional Lease Services

• Subleases and assignments;
• Rent review disputes;
• Surrender of lease agreements;
• Dispute resolution at the VSBC;
• Calculation and clarification of recoverable outgoings;
• Ongoing lease compliance advice for landlords and tenants.

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Talk to Gippsland's Local Lease Experts

Whether you're expanding your business, opening your first shop, or managing a retail property portfolio, Wakefield Lawyers is here to help. We offer practical advice, clear explanations, and local insight you can trust.