Commercial Property

Commercial Property

Assistance with the whole spectrum of commercial property matters
We can provide advice and facilitate your transactions in a cost-efficient manner, ensuring that you are fully appraised of the transaction and your current and future obligations.

Why seek legal advice

At HK Law we are able to assist with the whole spectrum of commercial property matters, from the leases of high street shops to fishing rights, from development sites to sites of historical interest, and from the acquisition of a multimillion-pound property to the sale of bare agricultural land.

We can provide advice and facilitate your transactions in a cost-efficient manner, ensuring that you are fully appraised of the transaction and your current and future obligations in relation to your property.

  • Peace of mind, with the knowledge that your interests in your property are being protected
  • Your transaction will be dealt with in an efficient and timely manner, leaving you time to focus on your business
  • Clear, concise advice that will ensure you are always kept fully informed
Commercial property law
Property law

Why choose HK Law?

At HK Law, we are an experienced and seasoned commercial property department. We have dealt with all manner of commercial property matters, and have a wide and varied knowledge base, ready to assist you and your business at any time.

  • Expertise and Experience
  • Personalised Approach: We take the time to understand your specific needs and tailor our advice accordingly.
  • Comprehensive Support: From negotiations and contract drafting to compliance and due diligence, we provide comprehensive support.
  • Transparent Communication: We keep you informed at every step, ensuring that you have a complete understanding of the legal processes involved in your commercial property transaction.
  • Proven Track Record: Our team has a proven track record of successful outcomes for our clients.
Fiona Knight HK Law

Your questions answered

Fiona Knight, Partner
  • What is commercial conveyancing, and how does it differ from residential conveyancing?
    Commercial conveyancing deals with property that is used by a company or an individual in the course of their business. This includes things like development sites, industrial units and high street shops. Although the process is broadly the same, much of the relevant law is different, as well as the client’s approach and ultimate objectives.
  • What are the key steps involved in the commercial conveyancing process?
    Much like a residential transaction, a commercial transaction will follow many of the same key steps. The broad overview can be summarised as follows: 1. A contract pack will be issued by the seller’s/landlord’s solicitor; 2. The purchaser’s/tenant’s solicitor will raise enquiries, including by reference to the commercial property standard enquiries; 3. The purchaser’s/tenant’s solicitor will review the replies to enquiries and the title to the property and report to their client; 4. The purchaser/tenant will put their solicitor in funds for completion; 5. The respective solicitors will complete the transaction; and 6. The purchaser’s/tenant’s solicitor will deal with the registration of the transaction at HM Land Registry (if applicable).
  • What due diligence is required in commercial conveyancing?
    Depending on a client’s requirements, a client generally has freedom to choose the level of due diligence they require. As the property is to be used for business purposes, rather than as a home, clients can manage the level of due diligence as they see fit. If a client has a lender, the level of due diligence required will normally increase as the lender must satisfy themselves of the property.
  • How long does it usually take to complete a commercial property transaction?
    Depending on the level of due diligence required, it is difficult to give a broad timescale for a transaction. The average timescale would be 8 to 12 weeks, although many transactions can be completed in a much shorter timescale.
  • What types of searches are conducted during the commercial conveyancing process, and why are they important?
    The usual commercial searches include a local authority search, environmental search and a drainage and water search. These searches can reveal important information that may otherwise not be apparent from your inspections of the property. You should always consult with your solicitor regarding searches, and in many cases there can be specific searches that you may require.
  • What are the costs associated with commercial conveyancing, and how are they calculated?
    In addition to legal fees, you would also likely need to budget for the following: Stamp duty land tax; HM Land Registry registration fees; and Searches fees. Your solicitor will be able to provide you with an estimate of fees for any given transaction.
  • How does VAT (Value Added Tax) apply to commercial property transactions, and what are the implications for buyers and sellers?
    Commercial property, unlike residential property, can be elected for VAT. This means that on a purchase or lease of a commercial property, you may also be liable to pay VAT in addition to the purchase price or the rent payable. Whether or not a property is elected for VAT should be revealed by the enquiries raised by your solicitor on your behalf.
  • Can you provide examples of successful commercial conveyancing cases you've handled in the past?
    We have had experience in successfully dealing with a wide range of commercial property matters, including: The purchase of multimillion pound development sites; Conveyancing for charities, including sales, purchases and leases; and Leases of high street shops.

By Darren Francis, Associate Solicitor

Find a Commercial Property expert in your area

HK Law Blandford office

Blandford

The newest of the HK Law offices and proud to service the people and businesses of Blandford and the surrounding area.

HK Law Bournemouth office

Bournemouth

Our Bournemouth Solicitors, based at our office in Southbourne, are here to support you with all the personal and business legal needs.

Somerset Solicitors

Crewkerne

HK Law’s history in Crewkerne dates back to 1749, making it the longest standing solicitors firm in the country.

HK Law Blandford office

Dorchester

With offices at 40 High West Street and 1 Colliton Walk, our expert team provides a comprehensive range of legal services to the people of Dorchester and surrounding areas.

HK Law Parkstone office

Parkstone

Our Parkstone solicitors, based in the heart of Ashley Cross, are here to offer you expert local legal advice.

Poole Solicitors

Poole

Our HK Law team in Poole assist local clients with their legal requirements.  Local to you, we are always on-hand to meet up whenever it suits you.

HK Law Swanage office

Swanage

HK Law have held a strong presence in Swanage for generations. When it comes to client care, we pride ourselves on a modern approach backed up by traditional values.

HK Law Wareham office

Wareham

Wareham is the office from which HK evolved. Today our Wareham office prides itself on offering the town a full range of legal services whilst keeping things simple and personal.

Our Commercial Property team