What is the primary purpose of a trade fixture in a rental setting?

The primary purpose of a trade fixture in a rental setting is to serve the tenant's business needs. Trade fixtures are items installed by a tenant for their business operations and are typically considered personal property. They are essential for the functioning of the tenant's business, allowing them to customize the space according to their specific requirements. Since they are directly related to the business activities, tenants have the right to remove these fixtures when they vacate the rental property, provided they do so without causing damage to the premises.

While trade fixtures may have some influence on property value or contribute to the overall aesthetic of a rented space, their main function is to facilitate the tenant's business operations. This distinction is critical because it outlines the difference between a trade fixture and other fixtures, which may be affixed to the property and could be considered part of it. Understanding this concept helps clarify the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants regarding property modifications and removals at the end of a lease.