Commercial Lease Disputes

Commercial lease disputes involve disagreements between landlords and tenants about how lease terms are interpreted or applied, with potential implications for cost, use of premises, and ongoing operations.

We help:

Identify how the dispute affects lease rights, obligations, and business operations
Assess options for resolving disputes, including negotiation and alternative dispute resolution
Support outcomes that protect your business interests and contractual position

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First class advice, service, and communication. I have had the pleasure of working with Velocity Legal for many years across a range of challenging matters and they never fail to impress.

Grant F

Their meticulous attention to detail, unwavering professionalism and strategic approach have delivered an outstanding result. Their level of service is nothing short of impressive.

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We are an accounting firm that works closely with Velocity Legal on all our client's legal matters… Every client who works with their team is delighted and impressed by the clear advice, efficient communication, and seamless process.

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They provided so much support and guidance through the process and I felt like they genuinely cared about getting the right outcome for me. They obviously know their stuff but were able to explain things in a simple and clear way.

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We Understand What you are Going Through

Commercial lease disputes often arise where lease terms are unclear, contested, or applied differently by landlords and tenants. You may be dealing with disagreements about costs, access to premises, compliance with obligations, or the ability to exit or vary a lease arrangement.

These issues can place pressure on cash flow and day-to-day operations, particularly where the premises are central to the business. Questions about timing, enforcement, and ongoing occupation can make it difficult to decide how best to proceed.

We understand the impact commercial lease disputes can have on a business. We help you work through the issues and consider options for resolving them in a way that protects your commercial position.

Our Services Include

Resolving rent-related disputes, including unpaid or contested amounts
Addressing maintenance, repair, and make-good obligations under leases
Managing disagreements about lease termination, expiry, or notice requirements
Advising on disputes involving alleged breaches of lease obligations
Assisting with subletting, assignment, relocation, or demolition disputes
Supporting alternative dispute resolution and tribunal or court processes

Our Difference

Accountability & Expertise

Every matter we handle comes with full accountability. You’ll deal directly with an expert – every time, no exceptions.

In Your Shoes

Understanding your unique circumstances and goals - so our advice is practical, personal, and never given in a vacuum.

Transparency & Communication

We speak your language. That means plain, clear advice - what’s happening, why it matters, and what comes next.

50+

Australian Based Team

4,000+

Matters Expertly Handled

10+

Awards & Industry Recognition

Our Process

Book Meeting
Fill in contact form below or call our office to book an initial consult. You can choose between in-person or video conference.
Get Advice 
You’ll discuss your situation in depth with a senior lawyer. This includes exploring your requirements, goals, and desired outcomes. You’ll walk away from this meeting with a clear understanding of the next steps.
Achieve Outcomes 
Our legal team will work tirelessly to achieve your desired objectives. We work hard, communicate regularly, and pride ourselves on delivering results.

Contact

Take the First Step Today

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book an initial consult with our expert legal team and get clear answers about your situation.

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Award winning team

Andrew Henshaw

Managing Director

Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)

Our Directors

Managing Director

Andrew Henshaw

Director

Demian Walton

Director

Greg Thomas

Director

Jennifer Maher

Director

Jess Hill

Director

Rajan Verma

Director

Seamus Ryan

Director

Shannon Hilton

The Benefits of Legal Representation in Commercial Dispute Situations

Conflicts between landlords and their commercial tenants can be challenging and involve significant time and financial resources. An experienced commercial lease dispute lawyer can help achieve a fair outcome for their clients during these tricky situations. Read More

Some of the most common disputes between landlords and their tenants include:

Rent-related issues: Disputes over late or nonpayment of rent or increases in rental fees are common in commercial leasing. A solicitor can review the lease agreement to ensure that the clauses outlining the payment schedule are clear and enforceable, and address what can happen in the event of tenant noncompliance. They can also issue formal demand letters to recover unpaid rent and negotiate payment plans when the tenant is having financial difficulties.

Repairs: Conflicts over maintenance and repair obligations are common. The responsibility for repairs — whether structural or everyday maintenance — should be clearly set out in the lease agreement. Ambiguities can lead to tenants being unexpectedly responsible for costly repairs, such as air conditioning and plumbing. A corporate litigation lawyer can review or draft clear maintenance and repair clauses to help prevent future disputes and ensure the responsibilities of each party are properly defined.

Termination disagreements: Legal intervention can be vital in interpreting lease clauses and mediating disputes related to early termination of the agreement and failure to comply with notice period requirements.

Breaches of the terms and conditions of the lease: Both landlords and tenants can knowingly or inadvertently fail to comply with the terms of a signed lease agreement. Common breaches include using the property for unauthorised activities or neglecting responsibilities for maintaining the building's structural integrity. A lawyer can help the complaining party determine whether there are valid grounds to pursue the matter further. They can also facilitate negotiations to establish new terms that can benefit both parties.

Subletting the property: Property disputes can arise if a tenant fails to disclose that another party is using the facility or if a landlord unreasonably refuses a request to allow someone else to occupy the space. A solicitor can review the lease agreement to clarify the rights and obligations of both parties and, if necessary, facilitate negotiations to resolve the matter amicably.

Dealing With Complex Commercial Dispute Cases

Sometimes commercial disputes can become more complex when they involve multiple parties, high financial stakes, and even criminal activity. If the police suspect that a property is being used by a tenant for a money laundering scheme, the landlord could suffer considerable damage to their reputation and take a financial hit. They could be investigated for facilitating fraudulent activities and failing to do their due diligence by fully screening their tenants. A commercial dispute lawyer can offer guidance to landlords while they vet their clients and provide representation in court for suspected fraud cases.

Commercial disputes are an unfortunate reality, but they can be managed with professional support and intervention from Velocity Legal. Our specialists can offer valuable guidance in resolving disputes over rent nonpayment, failure to comply with clauses in the lease agreement, and more.

Protect your business interests with the help of our qualified commercial lease dispute lawyers. Book a free 15-minute consultation today. Read Less

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of issues usually lead to commercial lease disputes?

Commercial lease disputes often arise around rent payments, outgoings, repairs and maintenance, access to premises, or how the premises may be used under the lease. These issues commonly emerge where business conditions change or where expectations between landlords and tenants differ.

Can commercial lease disputes be resolved without formal proceedings?

Yes. Many lease disputes are addressed through discussion or negotiation aimed at reaching a practical outcome. Formal processes are generally considered where agreement cannot be reached or where rights and obligations remain unclear.

What happens if I can’t reach agreement with the other party?

Where agreement breaks down, uncertainty around lease obligations and next steps can persist and begin to affect business decisions. This often prompts a need to assess available options for progressing the matter without unnecessary risk or disruption.

Can a lease dispute put my business premises at risk?

Yes. Lease disputes can raise concerns about continued access to premises or restrictions on their use. Where premises are central to operations, unresolved issues can place pressure on planning, staffing, and ongoing business commitments.

Take the First
Step Today

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book an initial consult with our expert legal team and get clear answers about your situation.

Transparent quotes (no ‘bill shock’)
Rapid response
Award winning team

Book Consult

4.9

74 Google Reviews

Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)