Micro-credential: Commercial Leasing

Programme structure and approach to learning

The commercial leasing market has evolved rapidly in recent years due to the impact of remote working, e-commerce, geopolitical and economic risk, due to uncertainty in the global trading environment, and the demand for ESG and green credentials. Challenges include underoccupancy, dead stock, stranded assets, obsolescence, dereliction and a rise in vacancy levels. However, there are signs that sector may be entering a recovery and growth phase.

This course will ensure that those engaged in advising on, or managing commercial leases, are up to date and equipped to meet the needs of landlords, tenants and others engaged in the commercial real estate market. Experienced practitioners in the field will explore current market and financing trends, while addressing all the core legal and practical concepts to include drafting, resolving disputes and the rights of landlord and tenants.

Topics covered

• Introduction to Commercial Leasing
• Categorisation of tenancies and basis of landlord and tenant relationship
• Commercial leasing market review
• Taking instructions, pre-lease enquiries and negotiation
• Essential elements of a commercial lease
• Drafting key clauses, covenants and conditions
• Use of AI tools in design, drafting and review of a commercial lease
• Risk management and compliance
• Breach of lease terms and resolution of disputes between landlords and tenants
• Termination of a commercial lease, repudiation and assignment
• Renewal rights, compensation and enlargement into a freehold
• Tax on commercial leasing arrangements
• Financing of investment leased properties
• Case law update
• Commercial leasing case studies

Workshops

The workshops are a key feature of this course. They are designed to be interactive and to consolidate knowledge. The provisional workshop dates are as follows:

1. Demo of AI tools in the design, drafting and review of a commercial lease: 3 November 2026, 5.30 - 6.30pm
2. Property clinic examining commercial lease case studies: 3 November 2026, 6.30 - 8.30pm

Assessments

2,500 word written assignment consisting of a case study analysis.