Mall
Landlord decode card
Decode key risks and quirks in shopping centre lease offers before you sign. Use the landlord decode card as a checklist to keep your decisions practical and focused.
When and why to use the decode card
Use the landlord decode card before you sign a lease or pay any commitment fee for a space in a shopping centre or mall. This tool is most useful when you are comparing lease offers, preparing questions for the landlord, or checking the fit for your franchise model.
The card is designed for people considering retail, food, beauty, health or specialty spaces in major malls from Sandton to Gateway, as well as regional centres from Gqeberha to Mbombela. A complete legal review remains essential, though this checklist highlights early warning signs and common gaps before you commit.
What the decode card covers
The decode card lists the main points you need to clarify with any mall landlord. Use it as a fill-in checklist and discussion starter with franchisors, advisors or your team. Leave no blank lines, empty spaces show where you lack detail or need a follow-up.
Most people use the filled card to compare two or three sites, run costs for fit-out and trading hours, or brief their attorney and accountant before final review.
- Gross rental and escalation (how increases are set)
- Centre management fees and marketing fund contributions
- Operating hours and compulsory trading days
- Fit-out rules, signage and approval requirements
- Turnover rental clauses and calculation methods
- Renewal, relocation and early exit clauses
- Who pays for maintenance, security and utilities
- Any exclusivity, anchor tenant or co-tenancy terms
What to do if the card flags a risk
Blank or unclear points on your card mean you need more detail from the landlord, the centre manager or the franchisor. Do not sign until you can fill every line with a clear, specific answer.
If the decode card shows a risk (such as a high escalation, strict trading hours or open-ended marketing fees), pause before you commit. Ask your franchise consultant or attorney to explain the impact in plain terms and check how similar leases have played out for other tenants in the centre.
You never need to rush a mall lease. Section 7 of the Consumer Protection Act gives you at least 10 business days after signing a franchise agreement to withdraw without penalty. Always take time to understand every lease term in writing.
Request your decode card worksheet
Share your business concept, site or centre and specific lease concerns with our team. We will send you the latest printable landlord decode card for your next site review.