NNN (Triple-Net Lease)

A Triple-Net Lease (NNN) is a specialized commercial lease agreement commonly used in industrial real estate where the tenant is contractually responsible for paying three primary expense categories in addition to the base rent: property taxes, property insurance, and maintenance costs. This lease structure shifts significant operational costs from the landlord to the tenant, providing landlords with predictable income streams and tenants with greater transparency and control over property-related expenses. In industrial logistics properties, NNN leases are particularly advantageous as they incentivize tenants to maintain the asset optimally, ensuring efficient operation of warehouses, distribution centers, or manufacturing facilities. The tenant’s obligation typically covers real estate taxes levied by local authorities, premiums for buildings and liability insurance, and upkeep that includes structural maintenance, repairs, and sometimes common area management. Importantly, while tenants bear these expenses, they also gain a higher degree of autonomy in managing building operations and maintenance schedules, which can promote customized fit-outs or specialized logistics configurations. From an investor and asset management perspective, triple-net leases reduce the landlord’s exposure to variable costs, facilitate long-term lease negotiations, and enhance property valuation through stable net operating income (NOI). However, it requires clear contractual terms to delineate responsibilities and avoid ambiguities around capital expenditures versus maintenance obligations. For B2B decision-makers in the CEE region, familiarity with NNN leases is essential to optimize portfolio returns, manage risk, and structure tenant agreements aligned with operational realities.