First Lease Definitions
Leasing instead of owning commercial space can be a smart decision when starting a business. Since commercial leases generally have more leeway for negotiation than residential leases, a lawyer’s knowledge of zoning laws and local ordinances and familiarity with local real estate market conditions and customs can make a tremendous difference in helping you negotiate the best deal for your commercial lease.

Every commercial lease should be in writing and should include the following aspects:

• A definition of the premises to be leased
• The commencement date (date lease is signed) and the effective date of the lease (date you take possession)
• The costs associated with the rent (including rent, common area maintenance (CAM) charges, maintenance charges, and security deposit)
• The date that the lease ends