Verifying the Legitimacy of the Property Owner or Proxy
It is crucial to ensure that you are dealing with the actual owner of the property or a legally authorized proxy. This step is essential to avoid falling victim to scams where you might end up making a substantial down payment to a fraudulent individual. Always insist on verifying the legal empowerment of the person leasing the premises, such as a valid power of attorney.
Understanding the Actual Size of the Property
Ensure that you are not short-changed when it comes to the size of the property. Lease calculations are often based on the property size, and if the premises are considerably smaller than advertised, you may end up overpaying.
Importance of Pre-installed Fibre Optic Cabling
Modern businesses require high-speed internet connections for efficient data input and transmission. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your commercial lease has pre-installed fibre optic cabling. This feature will save you the time and hassle of waiting for installation, which could take weeks or even months.
Displaying Your Company Logo
Displaying your company logo on the exterior of your office space is a basic requirement that is often overlooked. However, some property owners or business centres may not allow this. Always inquire about this beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings later on.
Understanding the Lease Deposit
By law, a tenant is required to pay a two-month holding deposit on commercial leases. This deposit should ideally be wired by the landlord into an official regional institution for safekeeping. Additionally, landlords may demand extra guarantees, especially for high-end commercial lets or non-resident tenants perceived as risky. It is crucial to negotiate and clarify these terms from the outset.
Negotiating IBI Tax and Community of Owners Quota
To avoid unpleasant surprises, negotiate the IBI tax and the Community of Owners quota at the beginning. While landlords generally cover these costs, this may not always be the case. Always ask to ensure you are on the safe side.
Understanding the Basura (Refuse Charge)
The Basura, or garbage collection tax, is a local rate usually borne by the landlord. However, this is often overlooked by potential tenants. Always inquire about who is responsible for this charge to avoid unexpected costs.
Clarifying Responsibility for Utilities
While it may seem obvious that the tenant should pay for utilities such as water and electricity, this is not always the case. In some office lets, the landlord may cover the water bill. Always inquire about the status of utilities and whether they are connected to avoid delays in service.
Checking the Air Conditioning System
Given Spain’s hot climate, a modern air conditioning system is a must-have in any commercial lease. Ensure that the property has a good, modern AC system to avoid discomfort, especially during the summer months.
Building a Good Relationship with the Landlord
The success of your business can often depend on your relationship with your landlord. Always strive to maintain a good rapport with them, as a difficult landlord can make your experience challenging. A high tenant turnover rate can be a red flag, so always ask your agent about this.
