Small businesses may benefit from a new code of practice which aims to clarify the process of leasing shops and offices.

Businesses will get a detailed guide to contract negations under the new code, which will help explain the subtleties of different leases.

Landlords will also be required to provide clear, understandable property leases and will be urged to avoid using clauses that allow them to increase tenants' rents unchecked.

Housing minister Yvette Cooper announced the changes, saying: "The new code will mean all businesses get a better deal on commercial property leases.

"This is as an important step forward by the industry that sets out clearly and simply best practice and advice for lease negotiations."

She added that the government will be monitoring the situation to ensure the changes "make a real difference".

A spokesperson for the British Property Federation (BPF) commended the move to help small businesses, which it claims do not often have legal representation when negotiating contracts.

The BPF represents the interests of parties involved in property investment and ownership.