The ban on upwards-only rent reviews represents one of the most significant changes to commercial leasing in recent years. Whilst the provisions are not yet in force, landlords, investors, developers and occupiers should start considering how the reforms could affect lease negotiations, investment strategies and asset values.
The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill (“the Bill”) was submitted to Parliament on 10th July 2025. While the Bill is largely geared towards the devolution of powers from Westminster to local authorities, Schedule 31 of the Bill introduces a surprise ban on Upwards Only Rent Review (“UORR”) clauses in commercial leases in England and Wales.
This County Court lease renewal case under Part 2 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 (“LTA 1954”) relates to the tenant’s attempt to include a break clause in a renewal lease and is a notable application of the Court’s approach to determining renewal lease terms set out in the leading case of O'May v City of London Real Property Co Ltd [1983] AC 726 (“O’May”).
The Grenfell Tower Inquiry has, today, published its final phase of the report to examine the circumstances leading up to and surrounding the fire at Grenfell Tower on the night of 14 June 2017. The report highlights significant deficiencies in the current building safety regulations and is likely to have a major impact on the construction industry, manufacturers and property owners.
