Commercial property applications are submitted online or in-person at our office. You'll need to provide business documentation including Articles of Incorporation or LLC formation documents, business tax returns or financial statements, personal financial information for guarantors, business references, and a detailed business plan or description of intended use. Our commercial leasing team typically reviews applications within 3-5 business days and will schedule a walkthrough to discuss your specific space needs and any build-out requirements.

For commercial tenants, we evaluate business stability, financial strength, and compatibility with the property and surrounding businesses. We look for established businesses with solid financials or well-capitalized startups with strong business plans. Personal guarantees may be required for newer businesses. We also consider the nature of your business operations to ensure compatibility with building infrastructure, zoning requirements, and neighboring tenants. References from previous commercial landlords are carefully reviewed.

Pet policies for commercial properties vary based on the type of business and specific property. Service animals are always accommodated in accordance with ADA requirements. For businesses where pets are part of operations (pet grooming, veterinary services, pet-friendly retail), we evaluate requests on a case-by-case basis considering building specifications, insurance requirements, and neighboring tenant concerns. Contact our leasing team to discuss your specific needs.

We prioritize commercial tenant maintenance to minimize disruption to your business operations. Emergency issues affecting business operations (HVAC failures, plumbing emergencies, electrical problems, security concerns) receive same-day response. Non-urgent maintenance requests are typically addressed within 24-48 hours. You can submit requests through our tenant portal, by phone, or email, and track the status in real-time. Our network of licensed commercial contractors ensures quality repairs that meet commercial building codes.

Commercial lease inclusions vary by property and are clearly detailed in your lease agreement. Common area maintenance (CAM) charges, property taxes, insurance, and utilities may be structured as gross lease (included in rent), modified gross lease (some items included), or triple net lease (tenant pays separately). Many of our properties include water, sewer, and trash services, while tenants typically pay for their own electricity, gas, and internet. Parking is generally included. We provide detailed operating expense statements annually for transparency.

Commercial tenants can pay rent through multiple convenient methods: ACH transfer through our online tenant portal (no fee), business check delivered to our office, wire transfer for larger payments, or automatic monthly ACH withdrawal. We provide detailed monthly invoices and year-end statements for your accounting records. Rent is typically due on the first of each month with a grace period outlined in your lease agreement. Late fees apply per lease terms to maintain consistency across our portfolio.

Commercial lease terminations are handled according to the specific terms in your lease agreement. Most commercial leases include provisions for early termination under certain circumstances, often requiring advance notice (typically 60-90 days) and payment of early termination fees or remaining rent obligation. In some cases, we can work with you to find a qualified replacement tenant to assume your lease. We understand business circumstances change and will work professionally to find solutions that minimize financial impact while protecting property owner interests.

Absolutely! We value long-term commercial tenants and typically offer lease renewal options 6-9 months before your current lease expires. This gives you ample time to plan for your business's future space needs. Renewal terms, including rent adjustments (typically based on market rates and property improvements), are negotiated in good faith. Many of our commercial tenants have been with us for multiple lease cycles, and we work to create renewal terms that reflect our appreciation for reliable, quality tenants who care for our properties.

We understand that most businesses need to customize their space to fit their operations and brand. Tenant improvements and modifications require prior written approval from our management team. Minor cosmetic changes like paint and removable fixtures are typically approved quickly. Major modifications (structural changes, plumbing, electrical upgrades) require detailed plans, licensed contractors, and proper permits. In many cases, we can negotiate tenant improvement allowances as part of your lease agreement for qualifying improvements. All work must meet commercial building codes and be performed by licensed, insured contractors. At lease end, you may be required to restore the space to original condition or negotiate leaving improvements in place.

All commercial tenants are required to maintain adequate insurance coverage to protect both your business and the property. Minimum requirements typically include: Commercial General Liability Insurance ($1-2 million per occurrence), Business Property Insurance covering your equipment and inventory, and Workers' Compensation if you have employees. You must name Westwood Property Management as an additional insured on your liability policy. Proof of insurance is required before lease execution and must be maintained throughout your tenancy. We can provide detailed insurance requirements specific to your property and business type during the application process, and we're happy to work with your insurance agent to ensure proper coverage.

Commercial lease deposits vary based on business type, lease length, and credit strength. Typical upfront costs include: security deposit (usually 1-2 months' rent), first month's rent, last month's rent (sometimes), and any applicable fees for lease preparation or key deposits. Established businesses with strong financials may qualify for reduced deposits, while newer businesses or those requiring significant build-out may need higher deposits. The security deposit is held in a separate escrow account and returned within 30 days of lease termination (minus any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid obligations). We provide detailed move-in cost estimates during the application process so you can budget accordingly.

Operating hours and business activity restrictions vary by property and are outlined in your lease agreement. Most of our commercial properties allow flexible business hours to accommodate your customers' needs, including evening and weekend operations. However, some properties have shared building considerations (noise restrictions, shared HVAC schedules, parking limitations) that may impact 24/7 operations. Restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues should discuss intended hours during the application process. We're generally accommodating of business needs while ensuring compatibility with neighboring tenants and community standards. Special events, extended hours during holidays, or temporary schedule changes can typically be arranged with advance notice.

Utility metering varies by property and is clearly outlined in your lease agreement. Many of our commercial properties have individual metering for electricity, allowing you to control your energy costs and select your own supplier. HVAC is often centrally controlled with costs included in CAM charges, though some properties offer individual control or after-hours HVAC at an additional cost. Water, sewer, and trash services are typically included in base rent or CAM charges for multi-tenant buildings. Internet, phone, and cable services are the tenant's responsibility to arrange and pay directly. We provide detailed utility information including average costs from previous tenants during the leasing process to help you budget accurately for operating expenses.

We are committed to providing accessible commercial spaces in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Most of our commercial properties include accessible entrances, restrooms, and parking spaces that meet ADA standards. Specific accessibility features vary by property age and type - we can provide detailed accessibility information for any property you're considering. If your business requires specific ADA accommodations beyond what currently exists, we'll work with you to evaluate feasibility and cost-sharing for necessary modifications. We take accessibility seriously and want to ensure your business can serve all customers. During property tours, we'll review accessibility features and discuss any concerns or requirements specific to your business operations.

Subletting and lease assignment policies are addressed in your lease agreement and typically require landlord approval. We evaluate sublease and assignment requests on a case-by-case basis, considering the proposed subtenant's business type, financial strength, and compatibility with the property. If you need to exit your lease early due to business closure, relocation, or downsizing, finding a qualified replacement tenant is often the best solution. We'll work with you professionally to review potential subtenants and facilitate the transition if approved. Assignment fees and requirements vary but typically include credit review of the new tenant, lease documentation fees, and landlord consent. We understand business circumstances change and aim to be reasonable while protecting property owner interests and maintaining quality tenancy standards.