FAQs about managing commercial property liability during the Covid-19 crisis

As part of our commitment to supporting UK businesses through the Covid-19 crisis, here you'll find up-to-date information on how to manage your commercial property liability during this uncertain time. 

Our property experts are available to answer any questions you have. Please just get in touch.

What grant funding is available to help me manage cash flow? 

• All retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in England will get a 100% business rates holiday for the next 12 months.

• Grants are available to small businesses eligible for Small Business Rates Relief from £3,000 to £10,000.

• £25,000 grants are available for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses operating from smaller premises, with an RV over £15,000 and below £51,000.

How do I know if my business is eligable for a grant?

We are waiting for guidance on criteria for a grant and how to apply. They will be administered by your local council.

Information on the expanded Retail discount relief is available here.

How do I keep my vacant property safe & secure?

Here are the top 10 things you need to do with your property:

Disconnect power – turn off all battery charging equipment that you won’t be using.

Get rid of the rubbish – try not to leave any waste hanging around in your empty building.

Remove valuable items – where practical, take any high value items with you.

Keep it heated – as we move into spring this shouldn’t be as much of a problem, but as a rule all buildings should be kept at 5 degrees centigrade to look after the heating and water systems.

Light it up – if possible, leave the external security lighting switched on.

Keep fire protection active - ensure all fire protection systems, including fire suppression and fire detection systems, are active and maintained.

Isolate water - if the property is going unoccupied for a long period of time, isolate water supplies that are not required for fire protection systems or other critical equipment.

Lock up - make sure you close all the doors, especially any fire doors, lock your windows and close any shutters.

Set the alarm – check it’s working and that your response team knows what to do if it goes off.

Keep an eye on it - maintain security rounds and site safety checks where practical and possible.

For more detailed advice on property control measures and risk mitigation during the Covid-19 outbreak, please get in touch with Matthew Lawrence or John Peckett.