A lease under the New South Wales Retail Leases Act 1994 is a legally binding agreement between a landlord and a tenant to rent a retail space in New South Wales. The Act protects the parties' rights and interests in the lease.
 

​The lease typically covers commercial properties primarily used for retail, such as shops, boutiques, restaurants, and small businesses. It establishes the terms and conditions for the tenant to occupy and operate their retail business.
 

​The key features and provisions of a lease under the New South Wales Retail Leases Act 1994 include the following:
 

1. Duration and Renewal: The lease specifies the initial lease term, usually several years, and the options for lease renewal or extension.
    

2. Rent and Outgoings: The lease outlines the rent amount payable by the tenant, the frequency of payments, and any provisions for rent increases during the lease term. It also defines the responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord regarding the cost of outgoings, such as utilities, maintenance, and insurance.
    

3. Permitted Use and Exclusive Rights: The lease details the permitted use of the premises, ensuring that the tenant's business activities align with local zoning and planning regulations. It may also grant the tenant exclusive rights to operate certain types of businesses within the premises, preventing the landlord from leasing to direct competitors.
    

4. Fit-out and Alterations: The lease specifies whether the tenant can modify the premises to suit their business needs. It may also address the issue of who bears the cost of fit-outs and restoration at the end of the lease.
    

5. Maintenance and Repairs: The responsibilities for maintenance and repairs are outlined in the lease, indicating responsibility for specific areas or items between the landlord or tenant within the premises.
    

6. Assignment and Subleasing: The lease may address the tenant's rights to assign the lease to another party or sublease the premises to a third party, subject to the landlord's consent.
    

7. Dispute Resolution: Under the relevant legislation, the lease may include provisions for resolving disputes between the landlord and tenant, such as mediation or arbitration.
    

8. Disclosure Obligations: The New South Wales Retail Leases Act imposes disclosure obligations on landlords, requiring them to provide the tenant with certain information, including a disclosure statement and a copy of the proposed lease, before entering the lease.
    

​There are essential differences between a commercial lease and a retail lease, and also the responsibility for legal costs for preparing such leases. With a retail lease, it is the lessor's responsibility to pay for the legal fees in setting up the lease though not for the lease registration, which is the lessee's responsibility.

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