Commercial landlords and tenants
This charter outlines your key rights and responsibilities as a tenant of Luton Property Services. It is a guide only and not a full summary of the law. If anything is unclear, speak with your Property Manager.
Things to do when your commercial tenancy starts
When your tenancy begins:
- contact your utility suppliers and take meter readings on the first day
- speak to your insurance provider about suitable cover
- locate key safety points including the water stopcock, main electricity switch, fuse box and gas isolator valve
Your responsibilities as a tenant
You must:
- pay rent on time as stated in your agreement
- pay utility charges, telephone services and business rates
- keep the property in good repair as set out in your agreement
- notify the council about repairs that are our responsibility
- request permission before making alterations
- use the premises only for the permitted purpose and within agreed hours
- allow reasonable access for council repairs
- provide proper written notice if you plan to leave
You must not:
- cause nuisance or harassment
- use the premises for illegal or inappropriate purposes
- apply for planning permission without consent
- assign the tenancy without approval
- sublet the premises without consent
If you occupy a shared building, you may need to pay a variable service charge.
Your lease or tenancy agreement includes full details.
Our responsibilities
We will:
- allow you quiet enjoyment of the property
- give notice before entering for repairs, except in emergencies
- usually maintain the structure and roof (depending on your agreement)
- maintain shared areas in multi‑occupied buildings
- follow our harassment policy if you make a report
Paying your rent
Rent is due on:
- 25 March
- 24 June
- 29 September
- 25 December
You must ensure we receive your payment. Late payment may lead to recovery action.
Allow four working days for bank or Post Office payments.
If you do not receive an invoice one week before payment is due:
Telephone: 01582 546636
Ask about Direct Debit if you prefer.
If you cannot pay, contact Sundry Debtors for advice.
Getting repairs done
Check your lease or tenancy agreement to confirm who is responsible for each repair. The council normally repairs the building structure; internal repairs are usually your responsibility.
If unsure, contact the Fixed Assets Division.
Report council‑responsible repairs promptly.
If repairs are delayed, let us know so we can follow up.
Do not stop paying rent.
If you rent a neighbourhood shop with a council flat above, report issues such as leaks to:
Tenancy enforcement housing
Telephone: 01582 547278
Safety in your property
To keep your premises safe:
- keep fire escape routes clear
- avoid overloading sockets
- turn off water and drain tanks if away long‑term
- keep the building secure
- report any harassment to the Fixed Assets Division
Ending your tenancy
Your written notice must:
- be in writing
- include the property address
- state the correct notice period and end date
You must pay rent up to and including the final day. Overpayments will be refunded. Service charges must also be paid.
If your agreement allows, you may request to leave early, contact Fixed Assets for advice.
You must obtain consent before assigning your tenancy.
You remain responsible for rent, service charges and rates until proper notice is received.
Repairs and condition when leaving
Before you leave, we will inspect the premises.
You must:
- return full vacant possession
- leave the property clean and in good repair
- remove all belongings and fittings
- repair any damage caused by their removal
- provide an electrical certificate confirming safe wiring
On the day you leave
You must:
- take final meter readings and notify suppliers
- secure the premises
- return all keys to Luton Council
Returning keys early does not end your tenancy unless agreed in writing.
Where to get help
Property, Construction and Housing Delivery
Luton Council
Town Hall
3rd Floor Extension
George Street
Luton, Bedfordshire
LU1 2BQ
Telephone: 01582 547081
Commercial and Transformation Services
Sundry Debtors Section
Luton Council
Town Hall
Luton
LU1 2BQ
Tel: 01582 546636