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ARTICLE · 19 OCTOBER 2026

Commercial Lease Review Checklist

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A Commercial Lease Review Checklist helps Queensland tenants assess total occupation costs, usage rights, repair obligations, personal guarantees, renewal options, and exit strategies before signing. This comprehensive guide identifies critical issues that can transform an apparently favorable lease into a costly commitment, from expensive equipment replacements to guarantees that survive business sales.

AustraliaReal Estate and Construction
Wayne Davis
Wayne Davis
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Article Summary

This Commercial Lease Review Checklist explains what Queensland tenants should check before signing: retail lease parotection, total rent and outgoings, permitted use and approvals, repairs, make good, guarantees, renewal deadlines, assignment, exit rights and default consequences. It also examines incentives, security, relocation and potentially unfair terms.

Tenants should obtain the supporting documents, calculate the full financial commitment, record the premises’ condition and negotiate specific amendments before committing. Renewal deadlines require careful attention, assignment does not necessarily release existing liabilities, and termination exposure can extend beyond unpaid rent. Two High Court decisions and practical examples explain why the complete agreement—and its interaction with current Queensland legislation—matters.

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The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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