CLEAR DESCRIPTIONS AND DRAWINGS AVOID CONFLICT AND SPEED OPENING

Want to structure your lease to speed your opening and avoid conflict with your landlord? Make sure the lease clearly describes the space you are renting. Attaching a drawing with dimensions is an excellent way to do this. This or another drawing should show the location of the space within the building and development that contains it; the parking areas available for the exclusive or non exclusive use of your customers, venders, and employees; and any other areas of importance (e.g. storage areas, trash and recycle container locations, loading docks, and the like). If you can, get the landlord to pre-approve and then attach additional drawings showing the signs you plan to use, and tenant improvements that are to be made to the leased space. A legal description of the premises or the building in which it is located is also important, as the lease may be unenforceable without it. In addition, clarify which areas are included in your premises for your use and for rent calculation purposes, such as hallways, bathrooms, and mechanical areas, and which areas are "common areas" for use by all tenants. Putting all of this in your lease can greatly reduce the chances of future conflicts and misunderstandings between you and your landlord. It will also help you better estimate and budget for your startup expenses.