Does a commercial landlord need legal representation when negotiating a lease with a tenant?

NWH UK · Apr 24, 2025

We are in the process of trying to sign a
commercial lease (very much newbies to the world of retail and this is our first shop/commercial unit.)
Our solicitor is saying that our landlord must seek legal representation in order for them to proceed in negotiating the lease. Our landlord is saying that this shouldn’t be necessary and he can deal with our solicitor directly.
It’s an old fashioned lease apparently but not one with lots of points/comments to be addressed.
We’re not sure which way to go!
Could we find a solicitor who will speak to our landlord directly or is this not a thing?!

Newchodge · Apr 24, 2025

NWH UK said:
We are in the process of trying to sign a
commercial lease (very much newbies to the world of retail and this is our first shop/commercial unit.)
Our solicitor is saying that our landlord must seek legal representation in order for them to proceed in negotiating the lease. Our landlord is saying that this shouldn’t be necessary and he can deal with our solicitor directly.
It’s an old fashioned lease apparently but not one with lots of points/comments to be addressed.
We’re not sure which way to go!
Could we find a solicitor who will speak to our landlord directly or is this not a thing?!

The landlord is stupid in not having their own legal advice, but I cannot see why your solicitor should worry about their stupidity.

Mark T Jones · Apr 24, 2025

Lawyers like to deal with lawyers - call it a common language

But no, there is absolutely no reason for you to be concerned

eteb3 · Apr 24, 2025

Newchodge said:
The landlord is stupid in not having their own legal advice, but I cannot see why your solicitor should worry about their stupidity.

If there’s any equitable interest involved then it would be for tenants’ own protection that the solicitor is insisting the LL has legal advice. Unusual, but common enough in some less common situations. (Eg, these are related parties somehow, or there’s a marital relationship somewhere in the mix).

If they can’t say how it’s for your protection then fine, tell them you’ll look for a solicitor who cares less about your opponent’s interests.

Michael Loveridge · Apr 26, 2025

NWH UK said:
Our solicitor is saying that our landlord must seek legal representation in order for them to proceed in negotiating the lease. Our landlord is saying that this shouldn’t be necessary and he can deal with our solicitor directly.

Your solicitor is wrong, and your landlord is right. If your solicitor won't deal directly with the landlord find one who will.

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Does a commercial landlord need legal representation when negotiating a lease with a tenant?

NWH UK

Newchodge

Mark T Jones

eteb3

Michael Loveridge

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