Signing a Commercial Lease? Here Are Four Clauses You Should Negotiate First

If you are a business owner or corporate tenant looking at commercial space in South Africa, chances are the landlord handed you a contract filled with dense legalese and framed as “standard”. Here is the truth: there is no such thing as a standard commercial lease. Unlike renting a home, where the Consumer Protection Act […]

The ABCs of lease agreements in South Africa

Navigating the world of lease agreements can be complex and fraught with potential pitfalls. In South Africa, these agreements are an essential tool for establishing clear expectations and protecting the interests of both landlords and tenants. Whether you’re a seasoned property manager, a first-time landlord, or a prospective tenant, understanding the nuances of these contracts […]

Competition law: ‘Exclusionary provisions’ in retail lease agreements – the warning!

The Commission initiated a market inquiry into the South African ”grocery retail sector” in November 2015, and part of which inquiry dealt with ‘exclusionary clauses’ in lease agreements.  An ‘exclusionary clause’ in a long-term lease generally reads that the tenant shall enjoy exclusivity in that no other competitor will be allowed to rent a retail […]

How do I cancel a lease?

What happens when a landlord or a tenant wants to cancel a lease? What rules and what legislation apply? What protection does the law provide? If you want to end your lease early, this can be done in situations where: the Consumer Protection Act or Rental Housing Act applies, or there’s a clause in the […]