Don't sign a commercial lease until you've asked these questions:

No.01 Does local zoning allow my business to operate in this location? This is the very first thing you need to ask. It’s worth noting that every town’s zoning laws are different and you may need to call your local zoning office (where the prospective space is located) to confirm the property zoning matches your business.

No.02 Which utilities and I responsible for? Be sure to ask about water and trash removal. If you’re required to have a third-party garbage removal service, call as few local companies to get quotes for ask neighbors for their recommendations.

No.03 What types of signage are allowed? Visibility directly affects your business so this info is crucial! Can you have your own custom sign made or is there a standard for the building? Can you hand an “Open” flag? Put out a sandwich board? Answers will largely depend on zoning and town ordinances.

No.04 What is the annual rent increase? The industry standard is 4% annually, but in some instances it may stray from that number. (You may even have an opportunity to negotiate a lower value.) This should be written into the lease and the renewal option (see No. 05)

No. 05 What are my renewal options for this lease? It’s not too soon to be thinking about this! Typically a renewal option is written into the original lease and matches the length of the lease term (i.e. a 5 year lease with an option to renew for an additional 5 years). Check the rent increases at this stage, too.

As always, if there are any questions on the Commercial leasing process please reach out to Kirby & Kirby directly!