Your Responsibilities as a Commercial Landlord
30 January 2025, by Verity Editor
Being a commercial landlord in the UK comes with a lot of responsibilities, but staying on top of them can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you own an office, a retail space, or an industrial unit, ensuring your property is safe, compliant, and well-maintained keeps tenants happy and protects your investment.
Keeping Things Safe & Legal
1. Health & Safety
– Your property must meet the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 standards.
– Carry out risk assessments to deal with hazards like fire risks, asbestos, and structural issues.
2. Fire Safety
– Fire alarms, emergency lighting, and extinguishers aren’t optional—they’re essential.
– Make sure you comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
3. Energy Performance
– An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a must—your property needs at least an ‘E’ rating.
– Energy-efficient upgrades can lower costs and attract eco-conscious tenants.
Maintenance & Repairs: Who’s Responsible?
– The building’s structure, exterior, plumbing, electrics, and heating need to be in good condition.
– Clearly define in the lease who handles what—nobody likes unexpected repair bills.
– Fix issues quickly to keep tenants happy and your property in great shape.
Managing Tenants & Leases
– A well-written lease saves headaches later—be clear on rent, service charges, and responsibilities.
– Stay on top of rent collection to avoid cash flow issues.
– Regular property inspections ensure tenants are using the space correctly and not causing damage.
Security & Insurance: Protect Your Property
– Security measures like CCTV, alarms, and secure entry systems help prevent issues before they start.
– Proper insurance—covering the building and liability—is a must-have to avoid costly surprises.
Dealing with Empty Properties & Business Rates
– If your property is vacant, you’re still responsible for business rates.
– Empty rates mitigation strategies can help cut costs on unoccupied spaces.
How We Can Help
Being a commercial landlord doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our team offers expert support for both vacant and occupied commercial properties. Get in touch today and let’s keep your properties running like clockwork.
Outstanding service. Very professional to deal with – they know what they’re doing and do it extremely well. They saved me thousands of pounds. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
Catherine Garel-Jones
