5 Ways to Protect Your Commercial Tenancy Deposit

The final inspection of a rented commercial property at the end of a tenancy plays a huge part in deciding how much of the security deposit will be returned to your business. Here we pinpoint five key factors in getting all of your money back.

1. Leave it clean

All that a commercial landlord really needs is for the property to be ready for a new business tenant to move in as quickly and painlessly as possible.

If the property is messy, dusty and generally unkempt your landlord has every right to use part of your deposit on employing a professional cleaner to do the job, and has no obligation to choose the cheapest option.

2. Clear it out

Any office furniture or white goods that did not come with the property, or were not detailed in the original inventory, must be removed when your business vacates the premises.

If heavy furniture such as desks and filing cabinets are left behind they will be removed at the expense of the landlord, and the cost will be deducted from the deposit.

3. Walls and ceilings

The vast majority of commercial tenancy agreements require all walls and ceilings to be free of damage and scuff marks, especially if not detailed in the original inventory.

It’s a tough task, but with professional assistance it is possible to avoid an expensive repainting job.

4. Carpets

An expensive outlay in any property, commercial landlords will be especially keen for all carpeted surfaces to be left in a good condition, and there is a strong chance that requirement is detailed in a tenancy agreement.

A professional carpet deep-clean can make easy work of even the most aggressive stains and odours, helping carpets look as good as new and avoiding the need for re-laying over a considerable footage.

5. Kitchens

Most office and commercial buildings have food preparation areas for staff, and these facilities will require a deep clean before leaving a commercial property. Particular care should also be taken to assure that fixed appliances such as fridges are left spotless.

This kind of cleaning, especially the removal of burned on grease and food staining can be particularly unpleasant and time-consuming. For the best results, strongly consider professional assistance!

If your business is leaving a rented commercial property and you need advise on getting your deposit back, please get in touch to find out how we can help.