Business · 8 min read · Published September 2026
Commercial lease in Ottawa: clauses to review
The commercial-lease terms that can shape rent, repairs, permitted use, renewal, assignment, guarantees, and exit options.
Short answer
A commercial lease is a negotiated contract, and small clauses can create large operating obligations. Before signing in Ottawa, review the permitted use, rent and additional rent, repair duties, insurance, guarantees, renewal, assignment, default, and what happens if the business changes.
What costs are easy to miss?
Base rent is only one part of occupancy cost. Ask how taxes, insurance, maintenance, utilities, management fees, construction work, and operating expenses are calculated and reconciled.
- Base rent and escalation formula
- Additional rent and reconciliation rights
- Tenant improvements and restoration obligations
- Security deposit, guarantee, and personal liability
What flexibility should a tenant ask about?
Business needs change. The lease should address assignment, subleasing, permitted use, signage, hours, exclusivity, renewal, relocation, and early termination clearly enough to plan around them.
- Consent standards for assignment or sublease
- Renewal notice dates and rent-setting method
- Ability to change the business or use the premises
- Remedies and cure periods if something goes wrong
Common questions
Can a commercial tenant rely on residential tenancy rules?
Commercial leases generally do not use the residential tenancy process. The lease and contract law usually control, so get advice before treating the premises like a residential rental.
Should a business owner personally guarantee the lease?
A personal guarantee can expose personal assets to business obligations. Ask what is guaranteed, when it ends, and whether a cap or other protection can be negotiated.
Official sources to check
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