A double net lease (NN) is a lease structure in which the tenant pays base rent plus two of the three "nets" — typically property taxes and insurance — while the landlord retains responsibility for common area maintenance and structural upkeep. This falls between a gross lease and a full triple net (NNN) lease in terms of tenant cost responsibility.
Double net vs triple net responsibility
| Cost item | Double net (NN) | Triple net (NNN) |
|---|---|---|
| Property taxes | Tenant | Tenant |
| Insurance | Tenant | Tenant |
| CAM/maintenance | Landlord | Tenant |
What to watch for before committing
Exact cost allocation confirmation
Verify precisely which two "nets" you're responsible for, since specific allocations can vary between deals labeled double net.
Structural responsibility clarity
Confirm the landlord's maintenance responsibility scope, especially for major structural items like roof and foundation.
All-in cost comparison
Compare total occupancy cost against competing NNN or gross lease quotes rather than relying on the double net label alone.
Landlord's maintenance quality history
Since the landlord retains CAM responsibility, research their track record for building upkeep and responsiveness.
Insurance requirement specifics
Confirm exactly what insurance coverage you're responsible for versus what the landlord carries separately.
Escalation interaction
Understand how any rent escalation clause interacts with your specific double net cost responsibilities.
When you need to know this
- Comparing lease structures across buildings — understanding exactly which costs you'd be responsible for under a double net arrangement
- Negotiating lease terms — potentially negotiating a double net structure as a middle ground between gross and full NNN
- Budgeting occupancy cost — calculating true total cost under a double net lease versus alternatives
- Evaluating landlord maintenance responsibility — understanding what upkeep the landlord retains under this structure
Frequently asked questions
Ready to compare lease structures?
Browse available industrial listings across every U.S. market, or get a free availability report from our team.