Commercial property rental in Ukraine: legal aspects of the agreement and practical tips for tenants

Renting commercial premises is a key step for starting or scaling a business.

However, neglecting legal details can lead to financial losses, conflicts with the landlord, or even loss of rights to use the property.

In this article, we will explore the key legal aspects of lease agreements, practical advice for tenants, and common mistakes to avoid.
Key legal aspects of commercial lease agreements
A lease agreement for commercial real estate must be concluded in written form, regardless of the lease term. If the term exceeds three years, the contract must be notarized and registered in the State Register of Property Rights.
The agreement should clearly include:
- The address and technical specifications of the premises (area, floor, purpose);
- The term of the lease;
- Rental payment terms and rules for changes;
- Terms of use (type of activity, modifications, restrictions);
- Procedure for transfer and return of the premises (handover act);
- Liabilities in case of contract breach.
We also recommend including provisions for early termination and consequences of contract cancellation.
Rental payment terms and indexation mechanisms
- The rental fee is one of the most important clauses of the contract. It is essential to specify not only the amount but also:
- The currency of payment (UAH or equivalent in foreign currency);
- Payment schedule (monthly, quarterly, etc.);
- Indexation mechanism (e.g., inflation rate or fixed percentage increase);
- Expenses not included in the rent: utilities, maintenance, security;
- Penalties for late payment.
Clearly defining these conditions helps avoid misunderstandings and financial risks later on.
Practical tips for tenants when signing a commercial lease
To protect your interests, we recommend the following:
- Verify ownership rights — request documents proving the landlord’s right to lease the premises (ownership certificate, title deed, power of attorney, court decision).
- Check the permitted use — make sure the space is suitable for your business activity. If not, zoning change or special permits may be required.
- Prepare a detailed handover act — describe the condition of the premises, existing defects, utilities, and equipment.
- Discuss sublease and renovation rights — clarify whether you can sublease, renovate, or modify the property.
- Include force majeure clauses — these will protect you in case of war, natural disasters, or other unforeseeable events.
How Consultant legal Marketplace can help
We offer comprehensive legal support for commercial lease agreements in Ukraine:
- Conduct legal due diligence of the property and landlord;
- Draft customized lease agreements tailored to your needs;
- Provide template contracts adapted to your situation;
- Advise on payment terms, repairs, termination, and risk mitigation;
Support you throughout the entire process — from negotiation to registration.
ConclusionCommercial property rental in Ukraine is more than just a square-meter deal — it's a complex legal relationship. A properly drafted lease agreement protects both parties and reduces the risk of future disputes. The Consultant Legal Marketplace offers professional support, individual solutions, and full legal security. Contact us today — we’ll help you draft and sign your lease agreement safely and efficiently.