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CPSEs: Commercial Property Standard Enquiries
Written by Scott Jones, founder of CommercialPropertyKiln · Last updated
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The CPSEs are the standard set of pre-contract enquiries used in almost every commercial property transaction. As a buyer, the replies tell you much of what you need to know.
What they are
The Commercial Property Standard Enquiries (CPSEs) are an industry-standard set of questions the buyer's solicitor raises and the seller answers before exchange. There are different forms for different situations, for example a general form plus supplementary forms for tenanted property or a property being sold subject to a lease.
What they cover
The enquiries cover ownership and boundaries, rights and covenants, disputes, notices, planning and building control, environmental matters, services, occupational leases, VAT and the option to tax, and much more. For a tenanted property they draw out the detail of the leases and any arrears or issues.
Why the replies matter
The seller's replies are relied on, so inaccurate or incomplete answers can give the buyer a claim. As a buyer, read them carefully and follow up anything vague. As a seller, answer accurately, because getting this wrong can come back on you.
Fit into due diligence
The CPSE replies are a core part of due diligence, sitting alongside searches, the survey and the lease review. Your solicitor manages the process.
What are CPSEs?
The Commercial Property Standard Enquiries, an industry-standard set of pre-contract questions the buyer's solicitor raises and the seller answers.
Why do the CPSE replies matter?
They are relied on, so inaccurate or incomplete answers can give the buyer a claim. Read them carefully and follow up anything vague.