Free Commercial Lease Agreements (Word, PDF)
Lease
by lillyroberts
Leasing space for a shop, office, or warehouse involves more moving parts than a home rental, from rent escalations to who handles repairs. This set of 32 commercial lease agreements covers the terms landlords and tenants negotiate, including duration, deposits, and permitted use. Property owners, business tenants, and brokers use them as a starting point for a deal.
Each agreement is editable in Word and ready as a PDF for signing, so you can fill in the parties, the premises, and the rent schedule. Commercial lease law varies by state and these contracts carry real obligations, so have an attorney review the final version before anyone signs. Customize the template that fits your situation and put the terms in writing.
When to use this Commercial Lease Agreement template
- A retail store owner in Denver needs a 5-year lease agreement to secure a high-traffic mall location with clauses for rent increases tied to foot traffic metrics, helping them budget for future payments while protecting against unpredictable customer flow.
- A startup tech company in Austin requires a short-term commercial lease (under 12 months) to test a co-working space model before committing to a long-term office, ensuring flexibility for rapid market adjustments and tenant turnover without heavy penalties.
- A property management firm in Los Angeles uses a one-page lease agreement for small storage units, streamlining the approval process for clients who prioritize quick occupancy over complex negotiations, while clearly defining liability for lost or damaged items.
- A logistics company expanding into Houston must include strict maintenance responsibilities in their warehouse lease to avoid disruptions from shared common areas, ensuring the landlord handles HVAC and roof repairs while the tenant covers interior upkeep.
Which format should I download?
Choose Word for commercial leases that require frequent edits, like negotiating custom clauses for industrial properties or adjusting tenant improvements during construction. This format lets landlords and attorneys collaborate directly in the document before finalizing. Opt for PDF when the lease is finalized and needs to be shared securely with stakeholders—banks for financing approvals, tenants for review, or city officials for zoning compliance. The PDF preserves formatting and prevents accidental edits once terms are locked in.
Choose from 32 Commercial Lease Agreement Templates
How to use this Commercial Lease Agreement template
What’s the best way to handle security deposit disputes in a commercial lease?
Start by clearly defining the deposit amount (often 1–3 months’ rent) and permitted deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear. Include a walkthrough checklist with photos/videos to document pre-move-in conditions. Use a separate holdback account for repairs, and specify the timeframe (typically 14–30 days) for the tenant to address any claims before deductions are made.
Should we include an assignment clause in our lease for a multi-tenant building?
Yes, if the tenant might sell or relocate their business. An assignment clause allows the tenant to transfer the lease to a new party with landlord approval, which protects your property from vacancies. Specify conditions like the new tenant’s financial qualifications, business type, and whether the original tenant remains liable for the lease terms. Consult local laws—some states restrict assignment rights to prevent tenant turnover.
How do we address common area maintenance (CAM) fees in a lease for a mixed-use property?
CAM fees cover shared expenses like parking lot lighting, landscaping, or building security. Clearly define what’s included (e.g., snow removal, pest control) and how costs are calculated (square footage, per-unit, or total building). Set a cap on annual increases or tie them to a consumer price index (CPI) to avoid unexpected spikes. For tenants, negotiate a gross lease where CAMs are bundled into the base rent for simplicity.
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