The United Kingdom, and London in particular, remains a top destination for international businesses seeking to expand operations into a stable, transparent, and commercially dynamic market. From prime retail spaces to corporate headquarters and industrial units, the UK leasing landscape offers considerable opportunities—but also complexities.
For foreign companies, navigating legal frameworks, market expectations, and leasing structures can be challenging without expert support. In this guide, we outline key considerations, leasing options, and how Fraser Bond helps international businesses secure the ideal UK property.
The UK ranks among the world’s most attractive markets due to its open economy, skilled workforce, and strong financial sector. London alone is home to thousands of multinational corporations, startups, and international headquarters.
The UK offers a robust legal system that protects property rights and upholds commercial contracts—important assurances for global investors and operators.
From Grade A offices in the City to flexible co-working spaces in Shoreditch, the UK offers a diverse mix of commercial property to suit any business model or budget.
UK commercial leases can vary widely, but most are long-term (typically 3 to 25 years) and governed by the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954. Common types include:
Full Repairing and Insuring (FRI) Lease: Tenant is responsible for all repairs and insurance.
Leasehold vs. Licence: Leasehold offers long-term stability; licences are short-term and flexible.
International businesses should budget for:
Rent and service charges
Business rates (local taxes)
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)
Legal and advisory fees
Local planning regulations, environmental standards, and zoning restrictions must be reviewed carefully. Fraser Bond’s legal team ensures full compliance for all clients.
Lack of local market knowledge
Currency and financial documentation requirements
Understanding UK-specific leasing terminology
Securing the right legal and tax advice
These hurdles make partnering with a UK-based property consultancy essential.
Fraser Bond is a trusted advisor to global firms entering the UK real estate market. Our services include:
We negotiate favourable lease terms, conduct full-market searches, and represent your best interests throughout the process.
From Heads of Terms to final contracts, our in-house legal support ensures documentation is compliant, secure, and aligned with international standards.
Whether you're setting up a European HQ in London or launching a new logistics hub in Manchester, we identify the best location to support your business goals.
We assist with visa-linked property needs, short-term leases for project teams, and expansion strategies across multiple UK cities.
With decades of experience in UK commercial property, Fraser Bond provides global businesses with the insights, access, and confidence needed to lease successfully in the UK. From your first enquiry to post-lease support, we handle every aspect with professionalism and integrity.
Leasing commercial property in the UK offers strong opportunities—but requires careful planning, expert negotiation, and local expertise. Fraser Bond acts as a bridge between international business and UK property success, delivering tailored, compliant, and strategic leasing solutions.
