Commercial Property

Whether you are buying a small retail shop or a multi-million pound development we provide specialised and practical advice on a wide range of commercial property issues.

We understand that commercial property is complex and involves a serious financial commitment on your part. That is why we are dedicated to working closely with you from the outset to gain a clear understanding of your organisation, market and ambitions. We can then make sure that the decisions you make are in keeping with your aspirations for a sustainable business.

Butcher McPhee specialise in:

• Commercial property development
• Acquisitions and disposals
• Lease negotiations
• Residential development and plot sales
• Property finance and investment
• Landlord and tenant advice
• Sales and purchases of investment property
• Contract drafting and negotiation
• Liquor licensing
• Occupational licences
• Auction disposals

Landlord & Tenant

The escalation of property prices combined with recent changes in the economic climate mean that an increasing amount of commercial property is now held on lease.

We act for both landlord and tenant and have extensive experience covering a range of lease work from standard estate leases to one-off leases which are specially tailored to suit the needs of the parties concerned. Using plain English we will make sure that you understand the nature and extent of your obligations before you enter into a lease to help you avoid any costly surprises that could cause you problems later down the line.

Butcher McPhee specialise in:

• Grants of new leases
• Lease assignments
• Variation of leases
• Lease renewals
• Schedules of Dilapidations
• Schedules of Condition

Liquor Licensing

Following the introduction of the Licensing Act in August 2005 some have found the changes in licensing law complicated and daunting.

All premises where alcohol is supplied, entertainment is provided or hot food is sold after 11pm, must now obtain a Premises Licence. In addition, the person managing the premises now requires a Personal Licence and a Designated Premises Supervisor must be named. All licences are 'policed' by the local authorities and each application is subject to the views of the police, residents and various government departments.

The consequences of getting the law wrong can be potentially catastrophic. Therefore it is important to receive strong, commercially aware, independent advice before you start the application process if you wish to achieve your business objectives.

We will work with you to ensure that you comply with all aspects of the law and will steer you through the red tape and legal jargon.

We have extensive experience working within the hospitality sector and we are one of the few law firms in the country to have a Partner who specialises in both Commercial Property and Licensing Law. Therefore, if you need to apply for a new licence or to transfer an existing licence when buying a commercial property the same Solicitor can deal with all aspects of a transaction concerning licensed premises.

Butcher McPhee specialise in:

• Premises Licences
• Personal Licences
• Temporary Event Notices
• Reviews
• Licensing Enquiries and Reports for purchasers of licensed premises