Opening a restaurant, a shop, a salon or an office? A commercial lease is a bigger commitment than most people expect: it can run for five years or more, and it may come with your personal guarantee. I help business owners find and lease the right space, and I explain every number and clause in English or Arabic.
How I help business tenants
- The right shortlist: spaces that fit your use, size, parking and budget, and a check with the city that zoning allows your business at that address before you commit.
- The real monthly cost: net rent, TMI and HST worked out together, year by year, with the commercial lease calculator.
- The offer to lease: rent for each year, free rent and the fixturing period, the deposit, renewal options, permitted use and the conditions that protect you.
- The conditional period: time to confirm zoning, permits and financing, and to have your lawyer review the landlord’s lease.
- Plain explanations: I walk you through the business terms of the lease. Legal advice on the lease comes from your lawyer.
Retail, restaurant, office and industrial
Across Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Mississauga, Oakville, Milton, Brampton and Hamilton. For a restaurant, see what to check before leasing a restaurant space.
Guides for business tenants
Frequently asked questions
Does Ontario limit how much commercial rent can go up?
No. The Commercial Tenancies Act does not regulate rent increases. The lease sets them, so agree on the rent for every year of the term before you sign.
Can I sublet or sell my lease if I sell the business?
Under Ontario’s rules a tenant can sublet or assign the lease unless the lease prohibits it. Many leases require the landlord’s consent, so read that clause before you sign. See the clauses to check.
Is HST charged on commercial rent?
Yes. A commercial lease is a taxable supply, so 13% HST is added in Ontario. A business registered for GST/HST may be able to claim it back as an input tax credit. Ask your accountant.
Sources (official pages, checked October 4, 2026)
- Ontario – Renting commercial property in Ontario (Commercial Tenancies Act, updated July 2, 2026)
- CRA GST/HST Memorandum 19.4.1 – Commercial real property, sales and rentals (a commercial lease is a taxable supply)
- CRA – Input tax credits (rent for commercial activities)
- Ontario – Citizen’s guide to land use planning: zoning bylaws
Programs and limits change, often at budget time. Confirm the current rules on the official page before you rely on them.
Talk to me in English or Arabic: call or text (647) 465-3710, message me on WhatsApp, or email Mohieddinrealtor@gmail.com.
General information only – not financial, legal or mortgage advice. Please consult a licensed professional about your own situation.