Commercial Lease Lawyers Sydney

Protect your business with an experienced commercial lease lawyer who understands the complexity of commercial and retail leases in New South Wales. Whether you are a tenant planning to sign a new commercial lease or a landlord managing an existing agreement, our team offers clear, practical legal advice that helps you avoid costly mistakes and secure the best possible outcome.

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Commercial Lease Lawyers in Sydney – Clear, Practical Advice for Tenants and Landlords

At CMI Legal, our commercial lease lawyers in Sydney provide comprehensive legal services for retail leases, industrial premises, hospitality venues, medical suites, and professional service locations. We assist with lease drafting, lease review, negotiation, dispute resolution, and Retail Leases Act compliance, ensuring your leased property aligns with your business goals.

Our goal is to provide legal advice that gives you clarity before you sign and peace of mind after the agreement is in place. With over 11 years of experience in commercial property law, we’ve helped hundreds of Sydney businesses, landlords, and tenants navigate the complexities of commercial leasing with confidence.

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Commercial Lease Lawyer Services For Tenants

Tenants face a range of commercial leasing issues that are not always obvious at first glance. Many clients come to us after discovering unexpected issues that were not explained at the start, so early legal assistance can prevent disputes before they develop. Our commercial lease lawyers provide comprehensive support for tenants at every stage of the leasing process.

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Lease Review and Risk Assessment

We examine your lease agreement terms, rent structure, maintenance clauses, fit-out obligations, and renewal conditions. During the review, our commercial lawyers break down key obligations, identify risks, and highlight clauses that may create commercial leasing issues later. A thorough lease review typically takes 2-3 business days and costs from $550 (fixed fee).

Negotiating Terms And Rent Reviews

We work with tenants to negotiate rent reviews, extended rent-free periods, relocation clauses, and other key areas that affect the long-term cost of occupying a commercial property. Our experienced lawyer negotiates changes on your behalf when the proposed lease terms do not align with your goals. We commonly negotiate rent reviews, fit-out allowances, repair responsibilities, and clauses that shift unreasonable obligations onto tenants or landlords.

Fit-Out And Make Good Clauses

Fit-out obligations can be expensive, especially if the lease requires the tenant to restore the property at the end. We ensure the make good obligations are clear so you avoid unnecessary costs. Many tenants are surprised by make-good costs at lease end, and our lawyers ensure you understand these obligations from day one.

Outgoings and Hidden Costs

Many tenants are surprised by the amount charged for outgoings. We help you understand what you are required to pay and whether the charges are permitted under the relevant legislation. Outgoings are often the biggest source of confusion, as many clients only discover additional charges after signing.

We assess the disclosure statement and the agreement to determine if the landlord has charged more than what the commercial lease allows.

Renewal and Termination Rights

We guide tenants through options to renew, early exit conditions, and the notice requirements that must be followed to avoid commercial lease disputes. Some tenants miss their opportunity to renew simply because the notice period was not understood. We clarify your renewal rights and help you exercise the option correctly before the deadline passes.

Personal Guarantees And Liability

Many commercial or retail lease agreements ask for a director’s guarantee. We ensure you understand your personal exposure before signing. A personal guarantee makes you personally liable for the lease obligations if your business cannot pay. Our commercial lease lawyers explain the risks and help negotiate caps or limitations where possible.

Retail Lease Disclosure Statement Review

If the Retail Leases Act applies to your premises, the landlord must provide a disclosure statement. We check this document to confirm it matches the lease and does not contain errors that could affect your business. Under the Retail Leases Act 1994 (NSW), landlords must provide this document at least 7 days before lease signing because failure to do so can give tenants termination rights.

Common Problems We Solve

Fixed Fee Legal Support For Commercial & Retail Lease In Sydney

Landlord Refuses Repairs

This often occurs when the lease agreement terms are unclear about who is responsible for repairs. We review the agreement, identify each party’s obligations, and help you enforce the landlord’s responsibilities so your business can operate safely.

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Unexpected rent increase

We commonly assist tenants whose landlords increase rent outside the agreed rent reviews. We check whether the increase breaches the lease and guide you through the steps to challenge it. Under the Retail Leases Act, rent reviews must follow specific methods. If your landlord ignores these rules, you may have grounds to dispute.

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Termination Without Proper Notice

NSW-specific legislation, particularly the Retail Leases Act 1994 for retail tenants, creates compliance obligations. Our Sydney-based team understands local regulatory requirements and court systems. 

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Option to renew mishandled

Some tenants miss their opportunity to renew simply because the notice period was not understood. We clarify your renewal rights and help you exercise the option correctly before the deadline passes.

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Hidden outgoings discovered

Outgoings are often the biggest source of confusion. Many clients only discover additional charges after signing. We assess the disclosure statement and the agreement to determine if the landlord has charged more than what the commercial lease allows.

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Tenant Default

NSW-specific legislation, particularly the Retail Leases Act 1994 for retail tenants, creates compliance obligations. Our Sydney-based team understands local regulatory requirements and court systems.

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Protect your business with trusted Sydney commercial lease lawyers. Drafting, reviewing, rent issues and disputes for landlords and tenants.

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Commercial Lease Lawyer Services for Landlords

Whether you are a landlord managing multiple premises or a single property, having the right legal guidance ensures smooth leasing operations. We assist landlords with drafting agreements, enforcing obligations, and resolving disputes with tenants.

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Drafting New Commercial Leases

We draft clear commercial lease agreements that protect your commercial property and set out practical obligations for tenants. Our lease lawyers ensure the agreement aligns with current market conditions, covers key risks, and reflects your business needs from the beginning. When we draft a lease, we make sure the lease terms are practical for your business operations and easy for both parties to follow.

Updating Existing Leases

We review and update older lease agreements to remove unclear terms, strengthen landlord protections, and align the document with current legislation. This helps prevent commercial leasing issues and ensures your lease remains fair, enforceable, and suitable for the property.

Enforcing Lease Terms And Defaults

When tenants fail to meet obligations, we help landlords enforce agreements through structured notices, clear communication, and legal support. This protects your investment, ensures compliance with lease terms, and reduces the risk of ongoing commercial lease disputes.

Managing Disputes and Breaches

We assist landlords with resolving rental disputes, maintenance disagreements, and breaches of lease terms. Our experienced lawyers guide you through negotiation and, if necessary, represent you at NCAT to achieve practical outcomes that protect your commercial property.

Bond and Security Guarantees

We advise landlords on bond arrangements, bank guarantees, and personal guarantees to reduce financial risk. Proper security helps ensure losses are covered if tenancy issues arise and the tenant fails to meet obligations under the commercial or retail lease.

Rent Review And Outgoings Management

We help landlords manage rent reviews and outgoings by confirming the correct method, advising on market standards, and ensuring the lease agreement terms allow lawful recovery of costs. This supports consistent rental income and prevents disputes with tenants.

Our Process: How We Handle Your Commercial Lease Matter

Initial Consultation

We discuss your situation, the type of premises involved, and your goals as a tenant or landlord. This initial conversation helps us understand the commercial property context and what you need from the agreement. Our free 15-minute consultation is available by phone or in person at our Chatswood office.

Review and Strategy

Our team reviews the lease document, disclosure statement, and any related agreements. We identify risks, explain your obligations, and outline a practical plan to protect you from future issues. You'll receive a clear summary of key points and our recommendations.

Drafting or Negotiation

If you need a new agreement drafted, our lease lawyers prepare documents tailored to your business. If an existing agreement needs changes, we negotiate better lease terms on your behalf to ensure the agreement is workable and fair. We handle all correspondence with the other party's lawyers.

Finalisation and Ongoing Support

Once the lease is ready, we confirm everything aligns with your instructions and meets legal requirements. We remain available for further advice if issues arise during the term of the lease. Many clients return for lease renewals, rent reviews, and dispute resolution years later.

Need Help with Retail & Commercial Lease?
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With 11+ years of experience supporting Sydney businesses, landlords and tenants, we provide legal services designed to protect your commercial property interests and guide you through the process with confidence.

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Suite 904/10 Help St, Chatswood, NSW 2067, Australia

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Industrial & Strata Commercial Leases

Industrial Lease Management

Industrial leases present unique challenges requiring an understanding of specific legislation and commercial property law requirements. We provide expert legal advice tailored to industrial property owners and tenants, ensuring your lease agreements address the particular needs of warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and logistics centres. Our team handles drafting, negotiating, and enforcing lease terms for industrial premises across Sydney.

Strata Title Commercial Properties

Managing commercial leases within strata title properties requires an understanding of additional legal complexities and body corporate requirements. We provide comprehensive advice on strata commercial leasing matters, ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and by-laws. This includes unit entitlements, common area access, strata levies, and coordination with owners’ corporations.

Our Commercial LeaseLawyers Reviews

We offer practical legal advice, comprehensive lease reviews, and proactive solutions to ensure your leasing arrangements align with your business goals and remain legally compliant

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Joe Shi profile picture
Joe Shi
10:53 10 Mar 26
Tina Tang is doing excellent service job as a profesional lawer and provide valued information about property purchase issue.Thank you so much,we are appreciated to your skilled help and hope to cooperate with your esteemed company,current residential living apartment 506/2-4 Culworth Ave Killara should be put in market,we hope Tina Tang will provide support as well.thank you so much.
Joe Shi
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Sydney Translation
22:10 18 Feb 26
Ying Wan profile picture
Ying Wan
08:39 10 Feb 26
We had an excellent experience with CMI Legal during our property purchase. The team was highly professional, detail-oriented, and extremely knowledgeable throughout the entire process. They carefully reviewed all contracts, clearly explained potential risks, and provided practical advice at every stage, which gave us great peace of mind. Communication was prompt and clear, and they were always patient in answering our questions. Their efficiency and attention to detail made what could have been a stressful process smooth and well-managed. We would confidently recommend CMI Legal to anyone looking for reliable and trustworthy conveyancing and legal services, with special thanks to Tina for her professionalism, patience, and exceptional support throughout the process.
郭小姐 profile picture
郭小姐
23:49 27 Jan 26
Attorney Tina was professional and patient; I am very grateful for her legal assistance during my home sale process.
Solutions NovaBuild profile picture
Solutions NovaBuild
19:57 22 Jan 26
John and Tina are the best! I just had another settlement through them. Everything was so smooth and they are reminding you every step for the key points.
P W profile picture
P W
12:00 28 Nov 25
I recently used CMI and worked with Tina for my property settlement. Tina was extremely helpful, patient and very professional throughout the entire process. She explained everything clearly, kept me updated at every step and made the whole experience smooth and stress-free. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer. Highly recommend Tina and the CMI team!
Andy Hsieh profile picture
Andy Hsieh
00:31 27 Nov 25
I’ve been incredibly lucky to have Tina as my solicitor. She has been outstanding throughout the entire contract exchange and settlement process. She is always the first to respond, timely, and extremely efficient. Her attention to detail is exceptional, and she consistently makes sure everything is in the buyer’s best interest. Super attentive, helpful, and genuinely caring. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Tina to anyone looking for reliable and professional legal services.
David Lin profile picture
David Lin
11:41 23 Nov 25
Many thanks to Senior Lawyer Tina Tang for helping me handle the sale of my property in Sydney. She liaised with the real estate, banks and buyers broker and explained everything well and handled the sale meticulously.Her professional ability, experience and sense of responsibility are trustworthy. I recommend Tina and CMI for anyone looking for support in real estate sales.
David Lin
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Denis Lebrun
00:14 21 Nov 25
John Zhang has been absolutely great in helping me with my EOI and application for a skilled visa in Australia. On both calls I've had with John, I have had a multitude of questions for him which he answered in depth and gave me all the information I required. He really has a great amount of knowledge and I would highly recommend him and the CMI legal team for their efficiency and professionalism.
Jing LI profile picture
Jing LI
03:22 30 Sep 25
I was very fortunate to have Tina TANG from CMI as my conveyancing solicitor for the recent sale of my property. She demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication throughout the entire process — from preparing the contract, exchanging contracts, right through to settlement. What impressed me the most is that even after settlement, she continued to go above and beyond to assist me as the vendor, making sure everything was properly taken care of.

Her diligence, patience, and attention to detail gave me great peace of mind and took away a lot of the stress of selling a property. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable, professional, and truly supportive conveyancing solicitor. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sabrina Ng profile picture
Sabrina Ng
06:57 12 Aug 25
Outstanding service from start to finish. Tina Tang handled my unit's sales contract with exceptional professionalism. Communication was always clear and prompt, making the whole process smooth and stree free. I highly recommand Tina to anyone seeking a reliable and knowledgeable solicitor.
Max Swan profile picture
Max Swan
22:16 01 Jul 25
I’ve had an incredibly positive experience working with John & Winnie on my matter. From start to finish, they have been professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely supportive throughout what’s been a stressful time for me.

They explained every step of the process clearly, responded promptly to any questions I had, and made complicated situations feel a lot more manageable. I felt like I was in good hands the entire time, and their calm, confident approach really helped me stay grounded.

Highly recommend CMI services to anyone needing immigration or legal assistance — couldn’t be more grateful.

Thanks again!
danny profile picture
danny
11:57 26 Jun 25
As an old customer of CMI, this year is already the 8th year. Special thanks to attorney John and attorney Tina for carefully answering our various questions, providing a lot of professional advice and help, allowing us to easily complete each transaction.
Vivien Lu profile picture
Vivien Lu
01:39 23 May 25
Tina was a great lawyer - she was always incredibly knowledgeable, answered all questions promptly, and very friendly. Would recommend Tina!
Zhiyi LI profile picture
Zhiyi LI
04:58 14 Mar 25
Jeremy Tong profile picture
Jeremy Tong
22:32 20 Sep 24
Tina was a great help in guiding us through our first home buying experience. She gave us a lot of great explanations and advice from initial discussion of the process through every step until successful settlement. Communication and resolution of issues was prompt and professional.
Yun Jung Hsieh profile picture
Yun Jung Hsieh
05:56 12 Aug 24
Tina is a fantastic lawyer. her responses to my queries were thorough and timely, and impeccable organizational skills! Truly appreciated her clear and consistent communcation througout the entire property-purchasing process. she handled everything with profressionalism and expertise, making what could have been a stressful experience much smoother. Highly recommend!
Jeena Jung profile picture
Jeena Jung
05:04 06 Aug 24
We had the pleasure of working with Tina as our solicitor for our first home purchase, and we couldn’t have been in better hands. She carefully explained every step of the process, guiding us through what initially felt overwhelming and unfamiliar. Buying off the plan made us particularly cautious, especially when it came to reviewing legal documents. Tina’s meticulous approach put us at ease—she ensured we both clearly understood each aspect, taking the time to highlight and reorganise information to make it more accessible. Her dedication and professionalism made the entire experience far less daunting, and we’re truly grateful for her support.
Keyu Jiang profile picture
Keyu Jiang
10:03 05 Aug 24
John and Tina have provided great professional legal service since 2017 for me.
Ian Pereira profile picture
Ian Pereira
09:18 04 Jul 24
I realised that I hadn’t left a review for my dealings with CMI legal. I had dealt with them a few months ago, but an epiphany made me come and leave a review.

5 stars is insufficient to express their work. We were working Dee and she is an amazing and thorough professional. She goes above and beyond and explains matters that makes you understand things really well. Thank you Dee for your amazing work.

Why Choose CMI Legal For Commercial Lease Matters?

Law Society Of NSW Registered Solicitors

Your lease will be handled by experienced lawyers who understand commercial and retail leases and the legal framework that applies to them. All our solicitors hold current practising certificates and are bound by strict professional standards.

Support For Both Tenant And Landlord Viewpoints

We work with tenants and landlords, giving us a balanced understanding of how each side approaches obligations and agreements. This dual perspective helps us anticipate issues and negotiate better outcomes for our clients.

Fixed-Fee Lease Reviews

We offer clear pricing so you know the cost of your matter before work begins. Many clients appreciate being able to plan with certainty. Our fixed-fee lease reviews start from $550, no hourly surprises, no hidden charges.

Multi-Lingual Team

Our lawyers can assist clients in multiple languages, including Mandarin and Cantonese. For Sydney’s diverse business community, being able to communicate in your preferred language makes legal matters clearer and reduces misunderstandings.

Fast Turnaround Lease Review Service

Standard lease reviews are completed within 2-3 business days. Urgent reviews available within 24-48 hours when needed. We understand that commercial property transactions move quickly, and delays can cost you the deal.

FAQs About Commercial & Retail Lease

Before signing a commercial lease, have a lawyer review the rent structure, outgoings, make good obligations, rent review mechanisms, renewal options, termination clauses, and personal guarantee requirements. For retail leases, also check that the disclosure statement is complete and accurate.

Outgoings are operating expenses that the landlord passes on to tenants. They typically include council rates, water rates, building insurance, common area maintenance, and management fees. Under the Retail Leases Act, some outgoings cannot be charged to retail tenants, as we can advise what's permitted in your situation.

No. Rent can only be increased according to the rent review provisions in your lease. For retail leases in NSW, the Retail Leases Act limits how rent reviews can be conducted. If your landlord increases rent outside these provisions, you may have grounds to challenge it.

A personal guarantee makes you personally liable for the lease obligations if your company or business cannot pay. This means your personal assets could be at risk. We advise on the implications and can negotiate caps, time limits, or release mechanisms where possible.

Commercial lease disputes can arise when obligations are unclear or when issues are ignored for too long. Our property lawyers assist with negotiation and, when required, represent you at NCAT to resolve disputes involving repairs, rent, compensation, and termination. Early legal advice often prevents escalation.

Retail leases in NSW are governed by the Retail Leases Act 1994, which provides additional protections for tenants (e.g., disclosure requirements, rent review restrictions, minimum lease terms). Standard commercial leases for offices, warehouses, and industrial premises don't have these protections because terms are purely contractual.

Early termination depends on the agreement. Some leases allow surrender with conditions. Others require negotiation or mutual consent.

The Retail Leases Act applies to many shops and service-based businesses. We check your disclosure statement to confirm your position.

A standard lease review takes 2-3 business days. For urgent matters, we offer a 24-48-hour turnaround. Complex leases or those with multiple related documents may take longer. We'll provide a timeframe when you engage us.

While not legally required, having a commercial lease lawyer review your lease is strongly recommended. Most successful businesses consider legal advice a standard part of leasing.

Early termination depends on your lease terms. Some leases include break clauses or early exit provisions. Without these, you may need to negotiate with the landlord, find an assignee, or face penalties. We can advise on your options based on your specific agreement.

The Retail Leases Act 1994 (NSW) applies to premises in retail shopping centres and certain standalone retail premises where the business involves the sale of goods or services to the public. There are exemptions for large tenants and certain premises. We can determine if the Act applies to your situation.

Meet Our Experienced Legal Team

Tina Tang

Lawyer

Rita Lam

Lawyer

Mathew Wu

Director

Jhon Zhang

Principal

Malorie Tan

Lawyer