Moving on

It is rare for organisations to stay in the premises they have occupied since their inception. Demands and needs change, and some grow and require more space within which to breathe, while others find that new technology equates to smaller premises and cost savings. However, some struggle and must cut their cloth accordingly.

Yet, regardless of the reason, moving presents problems and costs, especially in a healthcare setting.

Jessica Booz, a partner, and commercial property solicitor at at Veale Wasbrough Vizards (VWV), says that a leaseholder has the options of assignment, subletting and the use of any break clauses that are available.

Alternatively, she says that, ‘it may be possible to talk with the landlord to negotiate a surrender of the whole or part of the property depending on the market at the time’.

However, as Nathan Hinks, an associate at Wright Hassall, explains, this is not an automatic right, as ‘a landlord may agree on an early surrender of a lease, but there is no obligation for them to do this’.