Do I have to pay VAT after TOGC?

[Frostula]

Hi everyone, hope you are all well. I rent a small commercial unit and have just been informed that the landlord has sold it. In my current lease, which is up for renewal in May, it states that no VAT is added to the rent. The new landlords, who own many industrial estates, have just informed me that they now require VAT to be added. Do I have to now pay VAT even though the lease I signed says it won't be added? I'm not VAT registered and it's just another expense I could do without. Many thanks in advance

[wales01man]

Re: Do I have to pay VAT after TOGC?

Was the previous landlord VAT registered or did the Lease state no VAT payable?
If they were not registered they could not charge VAT if the new Landlord is they unless the lease states different they can charge VAT.

[Frostula]

Re: Do I have to pay VAT after TOGC?

I'm pretty sure the current lease states 'no VAT' and the old landlord wansnt registered. The news ones are but does this mean my old lease became void upon sale? I was hoping that the terms of the old lease would apply until renewal (where they will apply the new VAT terms).

[wales01man]

Re: Do I have to pay VAT after TOGC?

It would have to say no VAT as he was not registerd good chance you will now have to pay.
Can you ask the Solicitor you used to check the Lease.

[Frostula]

Re: Do I have to pay VAT after TOGC?

Will have a good read through this evening and see where to go from there. Thank you for your advise