For nonprofits and charities

Your lease is part of your mission.

Your space is where your programs happen and where people find you. But when a renewal or a new lease lands on your desk, there's rarely a facilities person to handle it. It falls to you, alongside everything else you're doing.

Renewal Option reads your lease and shows you what matters and what to negotiate, so you can protect the space that makes your work possible and go into the conversation prepared.

What happens if your funding changes?

Grants end and programs change. Where your lease addresses these questions, the report shows what it says, so you know your options before you need them.

If a grant ends, can you leave early?
Can you give back part of your space?
Can you sublet, or transfer the lease to another organization?
If you need to move, what are your ways out?

Lease, 123 Sample Street, Suite 400Sample office lease, illustrative

6.2Additional Rent includes a management fee of ten percent (10%) of gross rents payable under this Lease.

A fee set as a share of rent grows every time your rent does. Consider asking for a cap based on actual cost.

12.1The Tenant shall not assign this Lease or sublet all or any part of the Premises.

No right to assign or sublet. The lease can't be passed to anyone else, so it may not go with you if you sell, merge or move out. This term holds the grade down.

18.2The Tenant may renew by notice given not less than nine (9) months nor more than twelve (12) months prior to the expiration of the Term, in writing. Time is of the essence.

Notice window, calculated: March 1 to June 1, 2028. A notice even one day late could cost you the option.

D51 / 10013 points worth raising. Start with the renewal notice.

It also helps you see

How long you're committed
Your term and what the rent adds up to over it. Useful when a funder or your board asks about your space.
What can go up
Rent increases and operating costs, so there are fewer surprises in next year's budget.
What to raise first
Which lease terms may be worth negotiating first at renewal.
Ready for your board
Your commitments, your renewal notice deadline and the costs that could rise, so you can bring clearer information to board discussions.

Your time belongs to the people and programs you serve. Understanding your lease can help you protect your space, plan your budget and make more informed decisions about what comes next.

Understand your nonprofit's lease See a sample report

Free preview, no account needed. About five minutes.

Can't find your lease? Start with what you know.