Buying Commercial Property: Key Legal Checks and Due Diligence

Overview

Commercial acquisitions require detailed due diligence to confirm the buyer can use the property as intended and to identify title issues and liabilities that affect value, finance and exit options.

Title and transactional checks

• Title restrictions and covenants: limitations on use, building works, disposal, or signage.
• Easements/rights: access, service media, rights of way and third-party rights.
• Search results: local authority, planning, highways, environmental and drainage (as relevant).
• Planning and use: whether the intended use aligns with planning status and restrictions.
• Occupational interests: tenants, licencees, informal occupiers, and rent/arrears position.

Contract protections commonly used

• Conditionality (planning, finance, vacant possession, landlord consents)
• Warranties and disclosure structures
• Apportionments and completion mechanisms (including VAT clauses where relevant)

How Royce Legal can help

Royce Legal can run due diligence, advise on risk allocation, negotiate the contract, and coordinate completion and registration steps to protect the investment.