Gross lease vs net lease: key differences and how to choose the right lease

A gross lease is a commercial lease where the landlord pays most or all operating expenses while the tenant pays a fixed rental amount. This structure provides cost stability for tenants and simplifies landlords' financial management. Understanding the differences between gross and net leases helps businesses choose the correct option.

A quick guide to gross lease

In a gross lease, the landlord covers operating expenses like property taxes, insurance and maintenance while the tenant pays a fixed rental amount. This setup provides budget certainty and reduces financial responsibility for tenants. It is widely used in office buildings, retail stores and coworking spaces, offering a predictable cost structure for businesses.

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What is a gross lease, and how does it work?

A gross lease is a type of commercial lease where the landlord is responsible for paying most or all property-related expenses. The rent includes these costs, so the tenant only pays a fixed monthly rental amount.

What expenses does a gross lease include?

A gross lease agreement covers:

• Property taxes
• Insurance
• Maintenance and repairs
• Utilities (water, electricity and gas for common areas)
• Management fees

Since the rental amount includes these outgoings, tenants do not need to track fluctuating operating expenses.

How does a gross lease benefit tenants and landlords?

A gross lease lets tenants focus on business operations instead of managing costs.

• Fixed rent: The rent amount stays the same each month.
• Less financial responsibility: The tenant does not manage property maintenance.
• Easier budgeting: No surprise increases from land tax or insurance hikes.

A gross lease helps landlords simplify rental agreements and maintain stable income.

• Predictable cash flow: The rent payable includes all outgoings, reducing financial risk.
• Easier leasing process: Tenants prefer leases with stable costs.
• Higher base rent: Since operating expenses are covered, landlords set a rental amount that reflects costs.

Gross lease vs net lease: understanding the differences

A gross lease and a net lease assign operating expenses differently. In a gross lease, the landlord covers most costs, while in a net lease, the tenant is responsible for paying extra outgoings on top of the base rent.

FeatureGross leaseNet leaseWho pays property expenses?LandlordTenantRent predictabilityHigh (fixed rent)Variable (depends on expenses)Common in which properties?Office, retail, industrialOffice, retail, industrialMaintenance responsibilityLandlordTenant (varies by lease type)Flexibility for tenantsHighLower (costs vary)

Why landlords prefer a net lease

• Lower financial risk: The tenant is responsible for paying for taxes, insurance and maintenance.
• Stable income: Landlords receive a base rent without handling variable costs.

Key differences between gross and net leases in commercial real estate

A gross lease offers cost stability, while a net lease shifts financial control to tenants. Businesses must assess their budget, risk tolerance and long-term plans when choosing a commercial lease agreement.

Common types of leases

Lease typeWho pays for what?Commonly used inFull-service gross leaseLandlord covers most expensesOffice buildings, coworking spacesModified gross leaseCosts are shared between the landlord and tenantCustomised leases (some retail, small businesses)Triple net lease (NNN)Tenant pays for taxes, insurance and maintenanceRetail chains, industrial spaces

A gross rental agreement is more straightforward for tenants, while net leases allow tenants to manage operating expenses.

Factors influencing lease choice

1. Budget stability

• A gross lease provides fixed rent, shielding tenants from unexpected costs.
• A net lease allows tenants to manage expenses but may lead to higher costs if property taxes or management fees rise.

2. Risk tolerance

• The landlord is responsible for paying maintenance and repairs in a gross lease.
• In a net lease, the tenant is responsible for ongoing costs, which may fluctuate.

3. Long-term business strategy

• A gross lease benefits businesses seeking short-term stability.
• A net lease is ideal for businesses planning long-term control over commercial premises.

Which lease is right for your business?

When to choose a gross lease

A gross lease suits businesses that need cost certainty and fewer financial risks.

• Stable budget: The rent amount stays the same each month.
• Lower maintenance responsibility: The landlord handles repairs and upkeep.
• Ideal for startups and small businesses: Tenants benefit from fixed costs.

When to choose a net lease

A net lease suits businesses that want control over expenses and flexibility.

• More control over costs: The tenant pays for taxes, insurance and maintenance.
• Better for long-term plans: Large businesses like retail chains prefer this model.

A commercial property lease under a net lease allows businesses to adjust operating expenses as needed.

Frequently asked questions

Are net leases and gross leases better for commercial investment?

Both net leases and gross leases work for commercial investment. A gross lease offers stable income, while a net lease reduces risk for landlords. Investors should assess property value before choosing a lease structure.

Can a tenant assign the lease to another business?

Some contracts allow a tenant to assign the lease, but the landlord must approve. Businesses should check if their lease is a commercial contract that permits transfers.

How does rent work in a gross lease?

The rent amount in a gross lease is fixed and covers operating expenses. The consumer price index may influence rent increases in long-term leases.

Choosing the right lease for your business

A gross lease offers cost stability with a fixed rent amount, while a net lease shifts operating expenses to the tenant. Businesses should assess their budget, risk tolerance and financial goals before choosing a lease structure.

For professional lease agreements, explore Business Kitz’s lease resources to confidently manage your commercial real estate lease.