Clarify consent for the work, who pays, when rent begins and what must be removed or restored at exit. Put the agreed position in the lease and relevant attachments.
Picture the day you move out as well as the day you open
A fit-out can be a major commitment. Consider what happens if approvals are delayed, the lease ends early or the owner expects the original condition restored. Share plans and landlord correspondence with the drafter. Separate work you are allowed to do from work still awaiting consent. Technical approvals and business permissions may require advice beyond the lease itself.
Separate rent commencement from access for work
You may need access before the business can open. Discuss who can enter during that period, what alterations are allowed and who pays for utilities and approvals. Ask what happens to the fit-out when the lease ends. Keep written approvals for proposed work with the agreement; a conversation during a site visit is easily remembered differently later.
Points to work through
- Describe the intended use and proposed works.
- Identify who will obtain any required permissions.
- Discuss fit-out time, access and responsibility for costs.
- Record the expected condition on exit.
The next step
Resolve the fit-out and handover terms before committing to the work. Keep the approved plans and agreed changes with the final lease.
Does a lease itself guarantee every business permission?
No. The lease arrangement and applicable permissions or technical requirements are different matters that need appropriate checks.
Related reading
For current records and requirements, use the official sources below. Advice about your own property needs a review of its documents.
India Code · legislation reference ↗How we publish and handle corrections →Have a question about this guide? Ask Proplegal on WhatsApp ↗