watkins-commercial
watkins-commercial
Book a Valuation

Terms of Service

Last updated: February 2026

1. Introduction

These Terms of Service govern your use of the website and services provided by Watkins Commercial ("we", "us", "our"), a specialist business transfer agency operating from Curtis House, 34 Third Avenue, Hove, BN3 2PD.

By using our website or engaging our services, you agree to be bound by these terms. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, please do not use our website or services.

2. Definitions

  • "Business" means any going concern, commercial enterprise, or trade offered for sale or transfer through our agency
  • "Vendor" means the owner or authorised representative of a business instructing us to act on their behalf in selling or transferring a business
  • "Applicant" or "Buyer" means any person or entity seeking to purchase or acquire a business through our agency
  • "Services" means the business transfer, valuation, lease advisory, consultancy and related services we provide
  • "Particulars" means the written details we prepare describing a business for sale

3. Services Provided

Watkins Commercial provides the following services:

  • Business sales and transfers as agent for the vendor
  • Business valuations and market appraisals
  • Lease advisory services including rent reviews and lease renewals
  • Commercial property sales and lettings
  • Business consultancy and advisory services
  • Inventory preparation and stock taking

We act as agents, not principals, in all business sale transactions. We do not buy or sell businesses on our own account.

4. Agency Terms and Fees

Our agency terms and fee structure will be set out in a separate written agreement (the Agency Agreement) before we commence marketing your business. Key points include:

  • Our fees are typically calculated as a percentage of the agreed sale price and become payable upon legal completion of the sale
  • The specific fee rate and any minimum fee will be clearly stated in the Agency Agreement
  • We may charge for additional services such as valuations, inventory preparation and stock taking as agreed in advance
  • VAT is charged on all fees at the prevailing rate
  • The type of agency (sole or joint) and the agency period will be specified in the Agency Agreement

5. Business Particulars and Information

While we take reasonable care in preparing business particulars, please note:

  • All particulars are prepared from information supplied by the vendor and are provided for general guidance only
  • We do not verify the accuracy of information provided by vendors, including but not limited to trading figures, turnover, profit and lease details
  • Particulars do not constitute a representation, warranty or guarantee by us
  • Applicants must satisfy themselves through their own enquiries and professional advisers as to the accuracy of all information before proceeding with any purchase
  • We strongly recommend that all buyers instruct a solicitor and an accountant before committing to any business purchase

6. Confidentiality

The sale of a business is a highly sensitive matter. Accordingly:

  • All information provided to applicants about businesses for sale must be treated as strictly confidential
  • Applicants must not disclose the identity of a business for sale, or any details relating to it, to any third party without our prior written consent
  • Applicants must not approach a vendor directly or visit any business premises without an appointment arranged through us
  • Breach of confidentiality may result in immediate withdrawal of the business from sale and may give rise to a claim for damages

7. Applicant Obligations

By registering as an applicant with us, you agree to:

  • Provide accurate information about your financial position and ability to purchase
  • Attend viewings only through appointments arranged by us
  • Not negotiate directly with vendors outside of our knowledge
  • Inform us promptly if your circumstances change or you are no longer seeking to purchase a business

8. Vendor Obligations

By instructing us to sell your business, you agree to:

  • Provide accurate and complete information about your business, including trading figures, lease details and all material facts
  • Allow us reasonable access to the premises for viewings at agreed times
  • Refer all enquiries about the business to us during the agency period
  • Not unreasonably withhold your consent to viewings arranged by us
  • Notify us immediately of any material changes to the business or its circumstances

9. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law:

  • We shall not be liable for any loss, damage, cost or expense arising from the use of information contained in our business particulars or on our website
  • We shall not be liable for any indirect, consequential or special loss, including loss of profit, revenue or anticipated savings
  • Our total liability in connection with any transaction shall not exceed the commission fee paid or payable to us in respect of that transaction
  • Nothing in these terms excludes or limits our liability for death or personal injury caused by our negligence, fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation

10. Website Use

The content on our website is provided for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date, we make no representations or warranties about the completeness, accuracy or reliability of any information on the site. Your use of the website is at your own risk.

11. Intellectual Property

All content on our website, including text, images, logos and design, is the property of Watkins Commercial or our licensors and is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. You may not reproduce, distribute or use any content without our prior written permission.

12. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising from these terms or our services shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

13. Changes to These Terms

We reserve the right to update these terms at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date. Your continued use of our website or services after any changes constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.

14. Contact

For any questions about these terms, please contact:
Watkins Commercial
Curtis House, 34 Third Avenue
Hove, BN3 2PD
Email: office@watkinscom.co.uk
Telephone: 01273 709090