Matt Grindley of stevensdrake provides a checklist for Landlord's to consider when dealing with applications relating to consent for alterations. It is standard practice for landlords and tenants to enter into a 'Licence for Alterations' where a tenant wishes to carry out improvements or other major works to its premises during the term of its lease. Whilst structural alterations are usually prohibited, non-structural alterations are normally acceptable, subject to the tenant obtaining Landlord's consent. Landlords need to treat applications for consent seriously to ensure that any alterations do not have a negative impact on the value of their reversionary interest, the safety of the building and the marketability of the premises once altered. These concerns need to be balanced against the tenant's investment in improving the property to provide a more efficient and attractive place to work or trade. Landlord's checklist:

Published - June 2010This article is provided for general information only. Please do not make any decision on the basis of this article alone without taking specific advice from us. stevensdrake will only be responsible for the advice we give which is specific to you.