lease agreements
Pursuant to Section 15 of the Retail Leases Act 2003 (Vic), as soon as a landlord enters into negotiations with a prospective tenant about a lease, the landlord (of if acting through an agent, the agent) must give the party a copy of the proposed lease (without specifics) and copy of the information brochure published by the Small Business Commission.
Please note that the Information Brochure has changed and all landlords and agents should start using the new form immediately. A copy can be downloaded from the Victorian Small Business Commissioner Website.
The Victorian Small Business Commissioner proposes to start taking an active role in enforcing this provision by the giving out of warning letters and then prosecute repeat offenders seeking penalties of $8,000 per offence.
It is a timely reminder for landlords and agents to ensure that landlords are compliant with the Retail Leases Act 2003 and that their lease is drafted correctly. Landlords also need to ensure that they comply with their various obligations in the Retail Leases Act 2003 including that of giving tenants notice of the last date that an option can be exercised and annual statements of outgoings to name a couple.
Any questions or for further information, please contact Phillip Leaman or a member of our Leasing and Lease Disputes Team.