Are there specific legal requirements to buy on the South Coast?

by 27th of February, 2026

Yes. To protect your investment in NSW, buyers should must verify if these conditions apply. First, under the Retail Leases Act 1994, the landlord is legally required to provide a Lessor’s Disclosure Statement at least seven days before you enter into a lease assignment; this document is critical as it reveals all outgoings, promotion levies, and potential tenancy disputes. Second, regarding hospitality, you must verify the license status with Liquor & Gaming NSW to ensure the venue is free of "demerit points" or strikes that could restrict your trading hours. Finally, always ensure your solicitor requests a Section 10.7 Planning Certificate from the local council to verify the zoning and approved usage of the business premises. There are also taxes and duties to understand, and so utilising the state and local council resources is advised.

Important: These laws are complex, so always consult a qualified commercial solicitor before signing any contracts.

For operational assistance, new owners can access support through the Service NSW Business Bureau, which offers a free "Business Concierge" to help navigate council approvals and government licenses. Additionally, the NSW Small Business Commission provides low-cost mediation services for B2B and retail lease disputes a vital resource for navigating commercial tenancies in Sydney’s competitive rental market. There are also Grants and Funding options with NSW Government.

> Buying a Business – Revenue NSW

Tags: southcoast