What are the steps I should take before signing a commercial lease in California?

Before signing a commercial lease in California, there are several important steps that you should take to ensure that you are protected and fully understand the terms of the lease agreement. Here are some key steps to take:

1. Review the lease agreement carefully: It is crucial that you carefully review the lease agreement before signing it. Ensure that all terms of the agreement are fully understood and that you are comfortable with each of them. Ensure that the lease agreement does not contain any ambiguous or unfair clauses.
2. Seek Legal Counsel: It is always recommended to consult with an attorney if you are unsure of any part of the lease agreement. An attorney can carefully review the terms of the lease agreement and explain the legal implications of any language in the contract. They can then help you draft revisions to the lease agreement that are advantageous to you.
3. Check the Tenant's Rights: California law provides tenant protections against retaliation, discrimination, and unfair practices. Make sure you become aware of your tenant’s rights under California law.
4. Ensure that the Lease Is in Writing: All lease agreements in the State of California are required by law to be in writing. It is important that the lease agreement you sign includes all the agreed-upon terms and conditions.
5. Understand the Lease Term: The lease term refers to the length of time the lease agreement is in effect. Ensure that the lease term is clearly stated in the agreement.
6. Know the Rent Amount: The lease agreement should clearly state the amount of rent that is owed each month. Make sure that you are aware of all rental expenses that you are responsible for, including utilities or any additional fees.
7. Consider the Security Deposit: The lease agreement must clarify the amount of the required security deposit, the conditions under which it will be returned, and the timeline for its return.

In summary, before signing a commercial lease in California, it is critical that you carefully review the lease agreement, seek legal counsel when necessary, become aware of your tenant rights in California, ensure that the lease is in writing, understand the lease term, know the rent amount, and consider the security deposit to be paid. Follow these steps to ensure that you fully understand and agree to the terms of the commercial lease agreement that you are entering.