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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4.9

85 Google Reviews

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

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.

Jack C

From the initial consultation to the final resolution, they provided exceptional
service and achieved an outstanding result for our case.

Wan Li

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.

Selina L

I highly recommend the team at Velocity Legal. They are extremely knowledgeable, professional, have an eye for detail and their work ethic is second to none.

Mark P

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.

Natalie F

Approachable, honest, professional and transparent. An absolute pleasure to work with.

Bob W

4.9

85 Google Reviews

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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 the 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.

Book a Consult

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

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

Commercial Lease Dispute Lawyers in Melbourne

Commercial lease disputes can be disruptive and costly for both landlords and tenants. Whether the issue involves unpaid rent, a disagreement over maintenance obligations, an alleged breach of the lease, or a termination dispute, having experienced legal advice early can make a significant difference to how the matter resolves and what it costs to get there.

Some of the most common disputes that a commercial lease dispute lawyer can help resolve include:

Rent and outgoings disputes

Disagreements over rent, rent reviews, and outgoings are among the most common commercial leasing disputes. This may involve a tenant disputing whether a rent increase has been applied in accordance with the lease, a landlord seeking to recover unpaid rent, or a dispute over which outgoings the tenant is required to contribute to. We review the relevant lease provisions, advise on the legal position, and assist with recovery action or negotiation as appropriate.

Maintenance and repair obligations

Responsibility for repairs and maintenance should be clearly set out in the lease. Where the drafting is ambiguous, or where one party considers the other to be in breach of their maintenance obligations, disputes can arise quickly and become expensive. Our corporate lease litigation lawyer team advises on what the lease requires of each party and assists in resolving disagreements before they escalate.

Breach of lease

Both landlords and tenants can breach their lease obligations, whether intentionally or inadvertently. Common contract breaches include unauthorised use of the premises, failure to maintain the property in accordance with the lease, subletting without required consent, and failure to comply with make-good obligations. We advise on whether a breach has occurred, what remedies are available, and how to proceed.

Termination disputes

Whether a landlord is seeking to terminate a lease for breach, or a tenant is disputing a termination notice, the legal requirements need to be carefully followed. Mistakes in the termination process can expose the terminating party to significant liability. We advise on termination rights, notice requirements, and how to manage the process to protect your position.

Subletting and assignment

Property disputes can arise where a tenant sublets or assigns the lease without obtaining required consent, or where a landlord refuses consent in circumstances where it may not be unreasonably withheld under the lease or applicable legislation. Our commercial solicitors review the relevant provisions and advise on the rights and obligations of each party.

How We Approach Lease Disputes

At Velocity Legal, our starting point is always to understand what you are trying to achieve and give you an honest assessment of your legal position. Not every commercial lease dispute needs to go to court, and we will tell you clearly when negotiation or mediation is the more practical and cost-effective path.

Where urgent action is required, such as recovering possession of premises or seeking urgent injunctive relief, we move quickly. Where a matter proceeds to litigation, you will have clear advice at each stage about the risks, the costs, and the options available to you.

We act for both landlords and tenants across a range of commercial and retail leasing disputes. We are transparent about costs and provide a clear fee estimate following your initial consultation.

If you are dealing with a commercial lease dispute, contact Velocity Legal to discuss your circumstances and find out how we can help. 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

85 Google Reviews

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