Jonathan Cantor asserts that where a landlord does not oppose renewal of a lease of business premises, the proposals for the new tenancy that he sets out in his section 25 notice must be reasonable, or the notice may be invalid (see [2004] Gazette, 24 June, 29).


I do not think landlords need be so worried. The new form of section 25 notice contains clear wording to the effect that the landlord's proposed terms are not intended to be binding.


In addition, the notes in the form also state that the tenant is not bound to accept the proposed terms and that 'they are merely suggestions as a basis for negotiation'.


There is no requirement that any proposals should be reasonable, though in practice this would be advisable so as to avoid costs consequences.



Russell Hewitson, solicitor, Principal Lecturer in Law, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne