Taking a first commercial space is a big step for a small business. The lease is longer and less familiar than a residential tenancy, so it is worth understanding the main terms before you negotiate. This is general guidance for this template, not legal advice.
Break clause
A date on which you can end the lease early, usually with notice. For a young business this is often worth more than a small discount on the rent.
Rent review
How and when the rent can change during the lease. Ask whether it can only go up, or whether it follows the market both ways.
Service charge
Your share of the costs of shared areas: lifts, cleaning, lighting. Ask for the last two years of figures before you sign.
