How to write a rent-free period contract for a shop
In commercial leasing, a rent-free period is a preferential measure provided by the landlord to attract tenants, usually during the renovation or opening preparation phase. Recently, the discussion about rent-free period contracts for shops has become a hot topic, especially in the context of business recovery after the epidemic. Many tenants and landlords are paying attention to how to reasonably formulate rent-free period terms. Below is a detailed guide to shop rent-free contracts, including structured data and key terms.
1. Definition and common types of rent-free period

A rent-free period is a specific period of time during the lease term during which the tenant does not have to pay rent. The following are common types of rent-free periods:
| Type | Applicable scenarios | duration |
|---|---|---|
| Decoration rent-free period | The tenant needs to renovate or renovate the shop | 1-3 months |
| Opening rent-free period | Tenant preparation stage before opening | 1-2 months |
| Pandemic rent-free period | Business difficulties caused by force majeure | Determined according to negotiation |
2. Key terms of the rent-free period contract for shops
When drafting a rent-free period contract for a shop, the following clauses are essential:
| Clause name | Content description | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| Length of rent-free period | Specify the start and end dates of the rent-free period | Need to be linked to the lease contract period |
| Rent-free conditions | Conditions that tenants need to meet (such as renovation progress) | Avoid vague statements |
| rent adjustment | How to calculate rent after the rent-free period ends | Specify whether to include incremental clauses |
| Liability for breach of contract | Consequences if either party violates the rent-free period agreement | Compensation standards need to be specified |
3. Recent popular rent-free period dispute cases
Based on hot content in the past 10 days, the following are common disputes related to the rent-free period:
| Dispute type | Typical cases | Court decision tendency |
|---|---|---|
| Dispute over extension of rent-free period | Tenants request extension of rent-free period due to construction delays | Third party certification documents are required |
| Disputes over epidemic relief | Landlord rejects request for rent exemption during epidemic | Partial support for force majeure clauses |
| Early rent surrender deduction | The tenant quits the lease early and the landlord requires the return of the rent during the rent-free period. | Execute in accordance with the contract |
4. Shop rent-free period contract template framework
The following is the core structure of the rent-free period contract, which can be adjusted according to actual conditions:
| Chapter | Content points |
|---|---|
| Article 1 | Basic information of both parties to the contract (full name of landlord/tenant, certificate number) |
| Article 2 | The specific time of the rent-free period (accurate to the day) |
| Article 3 | Rights and obligations during the rent-free period (such as whether construction is allowed) |
| Article 4 | Terms of connection between rent-free period and formal lease period |
| Article 5 | Dispute resolution method (it is recommended to agree on the location of arbitration or litigation) |
5. Professional advice
1.Necessity of notarization: For rent-free periods exceeding 3 months, it is recommended to have the contract notarized to enhance the legal effect.
2.tax treatment: Some areas require landlords to declare "deemed sales" VAT for the rent-free period, and you need to consult a tax accountant.
3.Insurance terms: It is recommended to purchase decoration project insurance during the rent-free period to avoid the risk of construction accidents.
4.Latest policy: In 2023, many places will introduce business support policies, and eligible rent-free periods can enjoy tax incentives.
Through the above structured analysis and data presentation, tenants and landlords can more clearly formulate fair and reasonable rent-free period contracts. It is recommended that both parties hire professional lawyers to review the terms before signing to avoid subsequent disputes.
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