Hicks Baker

Hicks Baker’s Q1 2026 Retail Market Commentary reviews current retail market conditions with a focus on Windsor – covering prime streets, tourism-driven trade, vacancy and demand – highlighting what today’s environment means for landlords and occupiers considering their next steps.

Read the full Q1 2026 Retail Market Commentary now: https://ow.ly/qv8H50Z33T5

Thinking about refurbishing your commercial space, or dealing with alterations carried out by a previous tenant?

A properly documented Licence to Alter can make all the difference when it comes to rent review – protecting both value and negotiating position.

Hicks Baker’s latest article explains why this paperwork matters, and what landlords and occupiers should be checking before their next review date.

Learn more here: https://ow.ly/UQ7R50YY3mb

Closing a site before your lease ends can be a big decision — and getting it wrong can be expensive.

This latest article sets out the main options for commercial tenants, the key risks to watch for - and why early, tailored advice makes all the difference when you’re planning an exit.

Read more here: https://ow.ly/MSOs50YSnlc

Nice to see Reading getting some national attention for all the right reasons. This piece from The Times highlights exactly why the town is such an attractive place to live, work and invest – and why it continues to punch above its weight as the Thames Valley’s capital.

www.thetimes.com

📢 New RICS Service Charge Standard Coming Into Force - Are You Ready?

From 31 December 2025, RICS-accredited professionals must comply with the updated Service Charges in Commercial Property standard.
The changes aim to improve clarity, consistency and transparency - but the lease still takes precedence, so understanding your specific obligations remains essential.

Our latest article breaks down:
➡️ The revised core principles
➡️ What landlords can and cannot charge for
➡️ New mandatory requirements around budgets, accounts and reporting
➡️ Why professional advice is more important than ever

👉 Read the full article here: https://www.hicksbaker.co.uk/rics-service-charges-updated-professional-standard-2025/