HVAC Clauses in Commercial Leases: What Florida Business Owners Need to Know Before Turning Up the Heat

Here in Central Florida, “winter” is a bit of a stretch. While the rest of the country pulls out parkas and snow shovels, we’re over here debating whether it’s finally cool enough to switch from iced coffee to hot cocoa. Still, in the spirit of the season, many of us crank up the thermostat—even if it’s just to pretend it feels festive enough for holiday sweaters.

For Florida businesses, keeping your office or storefront warm in the “cold” months and cool the rest of the year is essential. That means making sure your HVAC system is doing its job—and understanding exactly who is responsible for that system under your commercial lease.

Residential vs. Commercial Leases: Not the Same Game

If you’ve ever rented an apartment, you might assume the landlord always handles HVAC repairs and replacements. Not so fast. In commercial leases, tenants are often responsible for maintaining and repairing the HVAC system—and sometimes even replacing it altogether. That can mean a significant, unexpected expense if you don’t read the fine print.

A properly drafted lease should spell out who’s on the hook for maintenance, repairs, and replacement. If your lease is vague or silent on this issue, it's time to ask questions before signing.

Do Your Homework (and Maybe a Thermostat Test)

Before finalizing your lease, it’s a good idea to evaluate the existing HVAC system. Is it efficient? Has it been regularly serviced? Can it handle Florida summers and our not-so-wintery winters? If it’s outdated or running on fumes, that could mean higher energy bills or costly repairs down the road—especially if the lease says those costs fall on you.

Negotiate and Plan Ahead

If you’re responsible for the HVAC system, consider negotiating for a maintenance allowance or service contract. You can also request the landlord handle certain repairs or replacements as part of the lease. The goal is to avoid future surprises that could put a freeze on your business budget—figuratively and literally.

Let Us Help You Sweat the Details

Understanding the ins and outs of your commercial lease is essential, especially when it comes to your bottom line. HVAC provisions can seem minor—until the AC breaks on a 95-degree day or the heater gives out right before your big holiday event.

At The Soto Law Office, we help Florida business owners negotiate and review commercial leases to avoid costly surprises and protect their investment.

Contact Us

Signing a lease this season? Before you turn up the holiday heat (literally), give us a call. Contact The Soto Law Office at (321) 972-2279 or visit www.TheSotoLawOffice.com to schedule a consultation. We’ll help make sure your lease terms are airtight—even if your HVAC system isn’t.