Can my commercial landlord cancel our lease for late rent?
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Can my commercial landlord cancel our lease for late rent?

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14.08.2026

I lease a shop and cash flow has been tight, so I was a few weeks late paying rent. The landlord has now sent a notice saying that it may cancel the lease and take back the premises. Is that lawful? I have never dealt with anything like this before and would like to understand my options clearly.

Site Administration 18.08.2026
reply date: 18.08.2026

A landlord can cancel a lease for breach, but the process is regulated by the Property Law Act 2007. Before exercising the right to cancel for non-payment of rent, the landlord must give you written notice of the breach and give you a chance to remedy it, typically for a minimum period, such as 10 working days for unpaid rent, under section 245 and the standard commercial lease terms. If you pay the arrears within the period, the landlord generally cannot cancel for that breach. You can also apply to the court for relief against cancellation, which can be granted on terms. Check your lease for its own default provisions and any personal guarantees you have given. Respond promptly in writing, pay what is owed if you can, and propose a payment plan.

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