Best Commercial Real Estate Lawyers in Havant
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Free Guide to Hiring a Real Estate Lawyer
List of the best lawyers in Havant, United Kingdom
1. About Commercial Real Estate Law in Havant, United Kingdom
Commercial real estate law in Havant covers the buying, selling, leasing, development and management of non residential property. This includes offices, retail units, industrial spaces, warehouses and development sites. The rules come from national legislation and local planning policy, plus ongoing regulatory requirements.
Havant is in Hampshire, in the South East of England. Havant Borough Council handles local planning decisions and development management, while Hampshire County Council oversees highways and strategic infrastructure. Land ownership and title protections are administered by HM Land Registry, with solicitors coordinating due diligence and transfers. Practitioners in Havant routinely combine local insight with national law to help clients navigate complex transactions.
2. Why You May Need a Lawyer
-
You are buying a commercial property in Havant and face title checks, covenants and potential planning restrictions. A solicitor will review title deeds, search for easements and any restrictive covenants affecting use. They will coordinate with the seller's legal team to avoid post completion disputes.
They also check for any outstanding planning permissions or enforcement notices that could affect occupancy or future development plans in the local area.
-
You are negotiating a new lease for a shop, office or warehouse in Havant. Key terms include rent, service charges, rent review dates and repair obligations. A solicitor can draft or amend clauses to protect your business and reduce exposure to unexpected costs.
They help with enforcement of covenants, assignment rights, break clauses and permitted use restrictions to ensure the lease matches your commercial strategy.
-
You need to renew or oppose a business tenancy under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954. Security of tenure, renewal terms and compensation rights can be technical. A solicitor will guide you through notices, negotiations and potential tribunal or court steps.
Having professional advice reduces the risk of a failure to renew or an overly punitive renewal on charges or terms that hinder business operations.
-
You plan to redevelop, extend or substantially alter a Havant property. This requires planning permission, building regulations compliance and safe construction practices. A solicitor coordinates planning applications alongside engineers and architects to align with the Local Plan.
They also help with contract drafting for construction works and ensure your project meets health and safety duties for construction sites.
-
You face a dispute with a landlord, neighbour or contractor over service charges, breaches of lease covenants or boundary questions. A solicitor can identify enforceable remedies, preserve evidence and advise on settlement or litigation options.
Early legal involvement often reduces costs and preserves your options for timely resolution under Havant's local policies and national law.
-
You are seeking to change the use of a building in Havant or appeal a planning decision. This requires careful navigation of planning laws, policy allocations and potential Planning Inspectorate routes. A solicitor helps prepare robust planning statements and appeal submissions.
They also coordinate with planning consultants and ensure compliance with notice periods and procedural requirements.
3. Local Laws Overview
Commercial real estate in Havant is governed by a mix of national statutes and local policies. Key acts shape planning, tenancy rights and construction practices, while local authorities implement the rules on the ground in Havant.
- The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 governs planning permission, development control and enforcement actions. Legislation information explains how planning decisions are made and what can be challenged.
- The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 regulates business tenancies and the renewal regime for commercial leases. Legislation information details rights and processes for lease renewals and terminations.
- Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 set duties for construction projects, including clients, designers and contractors. CDM Regulations overview explains responsibilities and project governance.
Note: The Havant Local Plan guides where employment uses and commercial development may occur within the Borough, shaping planning decisions for property investors and tenants.For Havant planning policy details, see Havant Borough Council planning information. Havant planning
4. Frequently Asked Questions
What is a commercial real estate solicitor and what do they do in Havant?
A commercial real estate solicitor handles property purchases, leases, disclosures and title checks. They also review planning and building compliance matters relevant to Havant properties. A local solicitor understands Hampshire and Havant planning nuances.
What is the difference between a solicitor and a licensed conveyancer?
Solicitors provide broader services including disputes and regulatory advice. Licensed conveyancers specialise in property transfers and registrations. For complex Ha vant leases or development projects, a solicitor is usually preferred.
How long does a typical commercial property purchase take in Havant?
Transfers commonly take 6 to 12 weeks from offer to completion, depending on title issues and lender requirements. Delays often relate to searches, financial conditions and planning checks.
Do I need a Havant based solicitor or can I use a national firm?
Local knowledge helps with planning policy and local searches. A national firm can work well for large portfolios, but ensure local representatives understand Havant processes and timing.
How much does hiring a commercial real estate solicitor cost in Havant?
Fees vary by matter complexity. A simple lease review might cost a few hundred pounds, while a full property purchase with due diligence could run into thousands. Always request a written estimate before instructing.
What is due diligence when buying commercial property in Havant?
Due diligence includes title checks with Land Registry, litigation searches, planning history review and checking for easements or covenants. It also covers financial commitments such as service charges and rates.
What is the process to renew a commercial lease under the 1954 Act?
The Act provides a framework for renewal and compensation where negotiations fail. A solicitor helps prepare renewal notices and negotiate terms to protect business continuity.
What is the difference between a lease and a licence for commercial space?
A lease grants exclusive possession for a long term with defined rights. A licence is generally shorter and grants permission to occupy without exclusive possession. Your business needs determine which is appropriate.
Can I challenge a planning decision in Havant?
Yes, you can appeal a planning decision to the Planning Inspectorate in certain circumstances. Your appeal must meet procedural rules and time limits set by government guidance.
Should I involve a solicitor early when planning a change of use?
Yes. Early involvement helps align your plan with planning policies and reduces risk of refusal or costly amendments later. A solicitor can coordinate with planners from the outset.
Do I need planning permission to change the use of a property in Havant?
Changing use often requires planning permission unless an existing permitted use covers the change. A planning consultant or solicitor can confirm the status based on Havant policies.
Is there a specific process for boundary or covenants disputes in Havant?
Boundary or restrictive covenant disputes follow civil procedure and may involve title checks and expert evidence. A solicitor can negotiate settlements or represent you in court if needed.
5. Additional Resources
Use these official sources for authoritative guidance on commercial real estate in Havant and the wider UK context.
- HM Land Registry - Responsible for land ownership records and title protection. Land Registry
- Planning permission (GOV.UK) - Government guidance on applying for planning permission and the planning process. Planning permission
- Havant Borough Council - Planning - Local planning policies, Local Plan documents and development management for Havant. Havant planning
6. Next Steps
-
Define your objective and budget. Clarify whether you are buying, leasing or redeveloping a property in Havant. Set a realistic timeline based on your business needs.
-
Identify potential properties or leases in Havant and compile a source pack. Gather draft documents such as existing leases, title deeds and planning references.
-
Choose a local commercial real estate solicitor by checking SRA registration and CRE experience in Hampshire. Schedule initial consultations to compare approaches and fees.
-
Request a written fee estimate and scope of work. Confirm timelines for due diligence, contract drafting and completion or completion of the lease.
-
Instruct your solicitor and provide all relevant documents. Begin due diligence for purchases or negotiate lease terms with the landlord or landlord's lawyer.
-
Review drafts carefully, request clarifications and approve key terms. Ensure planning, building regulations and environmental considerations are addressed.
-
Sign and exchange contracts or execute a lease, followed by registration of title or lease with the Land Registry. Confirm any post completion requirements with the solicitor.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.