Commercial Property & Leases›Licences to Alter
Licence to AlterGet consent before the works begin.
Businesses often need to adapt their premises. Your lease may require the landlord's consent before alterations — recorded in a Licence to Alter. Carrying out works without consent could put a tenant in breach, so we advise landlords and tenants before the works start.
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Alter the premises
with certainty.
A formal record of the landlord's consent
A Licence to Alter is a formal legal agreement between a landlord and a tenant that gives the tenant permission to carry out specified alterations to a commercial property.
Many commercial leases prevent tenants from making alterations without the landlord's prior written consent. A Licence to Alter provides a clear record of the works that have been approved, any conditions attached to the approval, and the responsibilities of each party during and after the works. It helps provide certainty for both parties and reduces the risk of future disputes.
Whether a licence is required depends on the wording of the lease and the nature of the proposed works. Examples where one may be needed include office refurbishments, shop fit-outs, internal reconfiguration, partition walls, new flooring, air conditioning, electrical upgrades, plumbing alterations, kitchen installations, signage affecting the building and structural works.
Matters commonly dealt with
Every Licence to Alter is different, but agreements commonly deal with matters such as:
- Details of the proposed works. A clear description of the alterations to be carried out.
- Plans and specifications. Reference to approved drawings, plans or technical specifications.
- Conditions of consent. Any requirements the tenant must comply with before, during or after the works.
- Responsibility for costs. Which party will meet the legal, professional or construction costs associated with the alterations.
- Reinstatement obligations. Whether the tenant will be required to return the premises to their original condition at the end of the lease.
- Compliance with legal requirements. Confirmation that the tenant remains responsible for obtaining any necessary statutory approvals, planning permission or building regulation approval where applicable.
Before works begin, tenants should consider whether the lease requires consent, whether written approval has been obtained, whether additional statutory consents are required and whether the proposed works are fully documented.
From consent to completion
We advise both commercial landlords and business tenants on every aspect of Licences to Alter. We review commercial leases, explain whether consent is required and prepare or negotiate Licence to Alter agreements that accurately reflect the intentions of the parties.
Our objective is to help clients complete property alterations with confidence while protecting their legal and commercial interests. Whether you are planning a small office refurbishment or more extensive alterations, we provide practical advice tailored to your circumstances.
Balancing flexibility with protection
- Practical commercial property advice.
- Clear explanations of lease obligations.
- Commercially focused legal solutions.
- Advice tailored to landlords and tenants.
- Professional communication throughout your matter.
- Efficient preparation and negotiation of legal documentation.
We understand the importance of balancing commercial flexibility with legal protection and work closely with clients to achieve practical outcomes.
Licences to Alter, answered
Do all alterations require a Licence to Alter?
Not necessarily. Whether one is required depends on the terms of the lease and the nature of the proposed works. The lease should always be reviewed before alterations begin.
Can I carry out works before obtaining consent?
If the lease requires the landlord's consent, carrying out alterations without approval could place the tenant in breach of the lease. Advice should be obtained before works commence.
Can a landlord refuse consent?
Whether consent can be refused will depend on the terms of the lease, the nature of the proposed works and the applicable legal framework.
Do you act for both landlords and tenants?
Yes. We advise both commercial landlords and business tenants on Licences to Alter and related commercial property matters.
Can you prepare the Licence to Alter?
Yes. We can prepare, review and negotiate Licence to Alter agreements tailored to the specific circumstances of your commercial property matter.
Planning works to your premises? Get consent in place first.
Whether you are a tenant seeking permission to alter your premises or a landlord considering a request for consent, we can provide practical advice tailored to your circumstances. Contact us today to arrange an initial consultation and discuss your proposed alterations.
Prefer email? Write to info@jeffersonclarke.co.uk