Rent Review Surveyor in Brighton: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know
If you own or occupy a commercial property in Brighton, understanding how rent reviews work is essential. Whether you are a landlord seeking to protect your investment or a tenant managing occupational costs, a well-handled rent review can have a significant financial impact.
At Olden Property, we act for both landlords and tenants, providing clear, evidence-based advice in line with the latest Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors standards.
What is a Rent Review?
A rent review is a mechanism within a commercial lease that allows the rent to be reassessed at specified intervals, typically every 3 or 5 years to reflect current market conditions.
Most rent reviews are conducted on an “open market” basis. This assumes a hypothetical letting of the property at the review date, subject to the lease terms, and disregarding factors such as tenant goodwill.
The exact assumptions and disregards are set out within the lease and must be carefully interpreted.
Why Brighton is Different
The property market in Brighton has its own distinct characteristics, which directly influence rental levels:
Diverse occupier demand – from independent retailers in The Lanes to national operators and office occupiers
Tourism-driven economy – strong seasonal footfall impacting retail and hospitality rents
Limited supply – particularly for well-located retail and character office space
Creative and digital sector growth – supporting demand for flexible office accommodation
These factors mean rental evidence must be carefully analysed and properly adjusted when negotiating a rent review.
How is Rent Assessed?
A rent review valuation is evidence-led. The process typically involves:
Analysing comparable lettings of similar properties in Brighton
Adjusting for location, size, configuration, and lease terms
Considering incentives such as rent-free periods
Applying appropriate valuation techniques (e.g. ITZA zoning for retail or £/sq ft analysis for offices/industrial)
For example, retail units in prime areas such as The Lanes are often analysed on a Zone A basis, whereas offices and industrial units are assessed on a £ per sq ft basis, typically using NIA or GIA depending on the property type.
Landlord vs Tenant Perspective
For Landlords
The objective is to evidence the highest sustainable market rent. This involves selecting strong comparable evidence and justifying any upward adjustment.
For Tenants
The focus is on ensuring the rent reflects true market conditions—identifying incentives, secondary evidence, and any factors that may justify a lower figure.
In practice, rent reviews are negotiated outcomes. The strength and interpretation of the evidence is often the determining factor.
Common Pitfalls
Relying on asking rents rather than agreed deals
Ignoring incentives, which can materially affect net effective rent
Incorrect measurement basis (e.g. NIA vs GIA)
Failure to properly interpret lease assumptions and disregards
A structured, professional approach is essential to avoid overpaying or underselling.
How We Can Help
At Olden Property, we provide specialist rent review advice across East Sussex and the wider South East.
Our service includes:
Detailed analysis of comparable evidence
Clear valuation advice in accordance with RICS standards
Strategic negotiation on your behalf
Support through to settlement (or third-party determination if required)
Whether you are a landlord or tenant in Brighton, we ensure your position is properly evidenced and robustly presented.
Speak to a Rent Review Surveyor in Brighton
If you have an upcoming rent review or are in the middle of negotiations, we would be happy to advise.
A short initial conversation can often clarify your position and identify the best strategy moving forward.