Windsor-Essex Lawyers Providing Advice on Commercial Leasing

The multi-faceted nature of commercial leases requires an established knowledge of Ontario’s property and landlord/tenant legislation, particularly the Commercial Tenancies Act. Willis Business Law represents parties on either side of commercial leasing matters and ensures lease agreements protect their client’s interests and manage their risk exposure.

As one of the fastest-growing business law firms in the Windsor-Essex area, Willis Business Law provides comprehensive legal solutions for commercial leasing matters to various stakeholders, including landlords, tenants, assignors/assignees, sub-lessors/sub-lessees, property managers, insurers, lenders, and developers.

Types of Commercial Real Estate

Willis Business Law represents public and private sector clients in the structuring, negotiation, drafting, documentation, and execution of lease agreements for a broad range of commercial properties, including:

• Office buildings;
• Industrial and warehouse properties;
• Shopping centres and other retail spaces;
• Manufacturing facilities;
• Hospitality properties, including hotels and restaurants;
• Condominium buildings;
• Mixed-use or multi-tenant spaces;
• Parking garages or lots; and
• Undeveloped land.

Commercial Lease Structures

The framework of a commercial lease can vary greatly, depending on the parties’ assumed responsibilities and operational goals.  Willis Business Law advises commercial landlords and tenants on the lease structure that is most advantageous to their business, and best meets their needs. 

A single commercial lease agreement can incorporate elements of many lease types, including:

• Full-Service/Gross Leases;
• Net Leases;
• Ground Leases;
• Sale-Leasebacks;
• Purchase Options; and
• Design-Build Leases.

Comprehensive, Quality Advice on Commercial Leases

Commercial leases can substantially impact the long-term viability of a business venture. Using template or “boilerplate” lease agreements, or conducting substandard due diligence, can cause costly legal disputes and lost income. Willis Business Law represents commercial parties at all stages of a commercial leasing arrangement and remains invested in their clients’ growth and profitability.

Due Diligence

Willis Business Law conducts thorough, detailed due diligence before clients enter into a lease agreement to ensure they fully understand the extent of any risk involved, including potential issues relating to:

• Environmental impact assessments;
• Use restrictions and operating covenants;
• Exclusivity clauses;
• Area calculations;
• “No build” areas;
• Relocation rights; and
• Rights of access and estoppel certificates.

Lease Drafting & Interpretation

The skilled business lawyers at Willis Business Law draft proactive and pragmatic lease agreements that secure clients’ interests and clearly establish their rights under the Commercial Tenancies Act. The firm also advises clients on their entitlements and responsibilities under existing lease agreements and develops timely, effective legal strategies in the event of a default or lease termination.

Willis Business Law provides robust legal advice and innovative solutions for any commercial leasing issue, including:

• Drafting any corollary documents and related agreements, including letters and offers of Intent, assignments, subleases, and cost-sharing arrangements;
• Renegotiation, amendment, and restructuring of existing leases;
• Property management issues, including maintenance and repair duties;
• Restoration obligations at the end of the lease term;
• Operating costs adjustments; and
• Property/realty tax assessments.

The responsive team at Willis Business Law offers swift, top-tier advice and representation for public and private businesses and institutions of all sizes at any stage of a commercial lease.

Contact Willis Business Law for Trusted Business Leasing Services

Willis Business Law is passionate about supporting clients’ growth and expansion through commercial leasing opportunities. The firm’s talented business lawyers create personalized, innovative legal solutions in a variety of leasing matters that position clients for success and protect their interests from liability. Clients benefit from the personalized touch and attention that has enabled Willis Business Law to develop longstanding relationships with reputable businesses, financial institutions, and other organizations across Windsor-Essex County.

Led by the only certified corporate and commercial law specialist in Windsor-Essex County, the lawyers of Willis Business Law pride themselves on being a team of community-minded leaders and professionals. Located overlooking the beautiful riverfront in downtown Windsor, the firm serves all surrounding communities, including Amherstburg, Essex, Kingsville, Lakeshore, LaSalle, Leamington, Pelee Island, Tecumseh, Chatham-Kent, and Sarnia. To speak with an experienced business lawyer, call 519-945-5470 or contact the firm online.