As organizations move into a new year, priorities naturally shift toward audits, compliance, and financial planning. Lease administration is often part of that process but rarely examined with the level of focus it deserves, given its impact on cost control, risk exposure, and long-term commitments.
For organizations managing multi-location or complex lease portfolios, the start of the year is an opportunity to step back from day-to-day execution and take a clear look at lease data. A focused review at this stage helps ensure information is accurate, obligations are understood, and decisions for the year ahead are based on reliable inputs rather than assumptions.
Why the Start of the Year Is the Right Time to Review Leases
Lease administration issues rarely stem from a single error. More often, they develop gradually, through minor inconsistencies, outdated documents, or misaligned records that persist across reporting cycles.
Reviewing lease information early in the year allows organizations to:
- Reset accuracy after year-end reporting
- Identify issues while there is still time to act
- Bring alignment across finance, legal, and real estate teams
- Establish clearer visibility for decisions that will arise later in the year
Rather than reacting to issues as they surface, a structured review creates a stronger baseline for planning and execution.
What a Structured Lease Review Supports
| Focus Area | Value to the Organization |
| Financial Accuracy | Ensures lease-related costs reflect actual contractual obligations. |
| Compliance | Reduces audit and reporting risk by aligning data with lease terms. |
| Cost Awareness | Surfaces billing inconsistencies and potential recovery opportunities. |
| Forward Planning | Improves visibility into upcoming renewals, expirations, and commitments. |
| Risk Management | Limits exposure through clearer documentation and review discipline. |
This foundation enables lease administration to support broader business objectives, not just reporting requirements.
New Year Lease Administration Checklist
- Gather and review lease documentation
- Verify rent payments and escalations
- Reconcile CAM and operating expenses
- Review critical dates and notice periods
- Audit security deposits and guarantees
- Review subleases and assignments
- Validate lease abstractions
- Align lease data with accounting requirements
- Prepare for the year ahead
This checklist is intended to create consistency, not complexity, and to help teams focus attention where it matters most.
How the Right Lease Administration Support Helps
Beginning the year with accurate lease data and clear visibility makes it easier to manage change, respond to audits, and support informed decision-making throughout the year. Mohr Partners supports organizations by bringing structure, consistency, and clarity to lease administration, helping internal teams stay focused without adding operational strain.
If you’re looking to strengthen your lease administration approach or establish a more reliable foundation for the year ahead, reach out to our team to learn how we can support your goals.
