28/04/2026
Over the past week I’ve been dealing with an extremely difficult situation regarding my shop tenancy. I’m sharing this for transparency, and because it has had a huge impact on my business and my ability to trade.
I was informed that a new tenant had been contracted for the premises and that I needed to vacate urgently. I received confirmation of this and understood that the new tenancy was going ahead. The property was also taken off the market and was no longer being advertised as available, which reinforced that understanding.
Based on the instruction to vacate, I dismantled the shop: rails, shelving, fixtures — everything taken down. The space is no longer set up for trading, and my ability to operate my business has been significantly affected.
I later received communication stating that the new tenancy had been withdrawn and that I was still liable for the premises. I requested written clarification on the legal basis for this, as entering into a new tenancy agreement with another party is generally treated in law as acceptance of surrender. I have sent multiple emails asking for clarity and have not received any response.
Given the lack of communication, I am continuing with plans to empty the remaining items, make good, and vacate the premises over the next few weeks unless I am provided with a lawful reason not to.
I’m sharing this because small businesses deserve transparency, stability, and fair treatment. This situation has been incredibly challenging, and I hope it helps others understand what can happen behind the scenes when you’re trying to run an independent shop.
