Guide 1 of 6 in Getting Started
Solicitors and Surveyors in Commercial Property
Written by Scott Jones, founder of CommercialPropertyKiln · Last updated
Spot something wrong? Report an error. We reply within 48 hours.
Commercial property needs the right professionals. Knowing who does what helps you build the team and control cost.
The solicitor
A commercial property solicitor handles the legal side: title, searches, the CPSE enquiries, reviewing or drafting the lease, and dealing with SDLT. Use a solicitor experienced in commercial work, not general conveyancing, because commercial leases and structures are more complex.
The surveyors
There is more than one type:
- Building surveyor: inspects the fabric and condition, produces the survey, and handles dilapidations and schedules of condition.
- Valuer: gives a formal valuation, needed for lending and for connected-party pension purchases.
- Agent: markets the property, finds tenants and advises on rent and terms.
- Rating surveyor: advises on business rates and appeals.
Most are members of the RICS, which is a mark of qualification and standards.
Building the team
For a purchase you typically need a solicitor and a building surveyor, plus a valuer if you are borrowing. For a letting you may add an agent. Agree scope and fees up front. Good advisers pay for themselves by finding problems before you are committed.
What professionals do I need to buy commercial property?
Typically a commercial solicitor and a building surveyor, plus a valuer if you are borrowing, and an agent for a letting.
What does a building surveyor do?
Inspects the fabric and condition, produces the survey, and handles dilapidations and schedules of condition.