Guidance for commercial tenants
Alterations and improvements
I want to alter the premises. What should I do?
You must request the Council’s permission as landlord if you want to carry out any alterations to the property. If we approve the alterations, you will be given a licence in respect of the alterations. A fee will be payable in respect of any specialist advice, surveyors and legal fees.
You will still need to apply for any required consents including planning, building control and if appropriate listed building permission. See Contact details: Useful Council services .
You should not commence work before referring details of all the proposed works. Work that will affect the structure of the building or any joint services e.g. sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems will need to involve appropriate specialist advice regarding the works.
You will not normally need our permission as landlord for non-structural fitting out work and internal partitioning unless they impact joint services; although it is recommended that you confirm the position with us before you start any work.
In certain circumstances it will be a condition of the grant of landlord’s consent to the alteration that the premises are reinstated to their original condition prior to the termination of the lease.
I want to paint/alter the shop front. What should I do?
You must request the Council's permission as landlord if you want to alter your shop front to discuss the proposed changes to colour, design, style and signage.
You will still need to apply for any required consents including planning, building control and if appropriate listed building permission. See Contact details: Useful Council services .
Are there any other regulations that I have to comply with?
Anyone having construction or building work carried out has legal duties under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 (CDM 2007), unless they are a domestic client.
The following web link provides a guide to the duties imposed:
Summary of Duties under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007|
