Form 8-K

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 8-K

 

 

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported) December 12, 2016

 

 

BENEFITFOCUS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Delaware   001-36061   46-2346314

(State or other jurisdiction

of incorporation)

 

(Commission

File Number)

 

(IRS Employer

Identification No.)

100 Benefitfocus Way, Charleston, South Carolina 29492

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (843) 849-7476

 

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

 

Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 

Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

 

 

 


Item 1.01. Entry Into a Material Definitive Agreement.

Lease Agreements

On December 12, 2016, Benefitfocus.com, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Benefitfocus, Inc. (the “Company”), executed an amendment to each of: (i) the Lease Agreement dated January 1, 2009, as amended, between the Company and Daniel Island Executive Center, LLC (“DIEC”); (ii) the Lease Agreement dated May 31, 2005, between the Company and DIEC; and (iii) the Commercial Lease Agreement dated December 13, 2013, between the Company and DIEC II, LLC (collectively, the “Lease Amendments”). The Lease Amendments extend the term of each lease agreement to December 31, 2031, and provide that the initial term of each lease will reset upon the commencement date of the Lease (as defined below) and again if the Company enters into a new lease for Building 5 (as defined below), to be co-terminus with such new lease. The extension of each of the lease terms is in consideration for certain concessions made by DIEC and DIEC II (collectively, the “Lessors”), namely, extending from December 13, 2016 to December 31, 2018 the term of an option that allows the Company to require the Lessors to build a two-story building, including potentially for a welcome center, of approximately 18,500 square feet on its property, Daniel Island Executive Center II (Berkeley County, South Carolina) (“Building 5”) for the Company to lease, and waiving certain accrued and future carrying costs and termination fees payable to the Lessors by the Company under the existing option. On December 12, 2016, the Company also executed a lease agreement with DIEC II (the “Lease”). Pursuant to the Lease, DIEC II will construct a building of approximately 145,800 square feet on Daniel Island Executive Center II for the Company to expand its campus to accommodate anticipated future growth.

The target commencement date of the Lease is July 1, 2019 and the Lease would run for 15 years. Pursuant to the terms of the Lease, the Company agrees to commence construction on or about April 1, 2018 and can also terminate the Lease prior to that time, subject to reimbursing the landlord for its reasonable, documented, and pre-agreed out-of-pocket costs with respect to the Lease and building to date. If the Company delays beginning construction past December 31, 2018, the landlord may terminate the Lease. The Company may renew the Lease upon 365 days’ notice to DIEC II for five additional one-year terms, provided that the Company is not in default at the time of its request. If the Company enters into a new lease for Building 5, the term of the Lease will reset to 15 years from the date the Company begins paying rent for Building 5.

Annual rent for the first year of the Lease is $30.05 per square foot of Rentable Area (as defined in the Lease). Thereafter, rent will increase by two percent of the rent paid for the preceding Lease Year (as defined in the Lease). Beginning in the second Lease Year, the Company will also be responsible for its proportionate share of the cost of operating expenses above $5.05 per square foot of Rentable Area, subject to a three percent cap on the annual escalation of Controllable Expenses (as defined in the Lease). Upon an event of default under the Lease, including the failure to pay rent (subject to a cure period), DIEC II may, among other things, terminate the Lease and require the Company to surrender possession of the leased premises and pay rent due and outstanding as of the termination date.


The Lessors are South Carolina limited liability companies. The Holland Family Trust and Shawn Arthur Jenkins Living Trust own the Lessors equally. Since Mason R. Holland, Jr., Executive Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”), and Shawn A. Jenkins, President and director of the Company, are affiliated with the Holland Family Trust and Shawn Arthur Jenkins Living Trust, respectively, a majority of the disinterested directors of the Board obtained independent advice and deliberated separately with respect to, and then unanimously approved the Lease Amendments and the Lease.

Amendment to Credit Agreement

In connection with the Lease Amendments and the Lease, on December 12, 2016, the Company and certain subsidiaries of the Company (the “Borrowers”) entered into the Fifth Amendment Agreement (the “Credit Agreement Amendment”) to the Credit Agreement, dated as of February 20, 2015, as amended on June 16, 2015, December 18, 2015, March 24, 2016 and October 28, 2016 (the “Credit Agreement”), with Silicon Valley Bank, a lender and the administrative agent and collateral agent, and several other lenders party thereto.

The Credit Agreement Amendment revises the covenant restricting indebtedness to increase the basket for building lease obligations of the Borrowers, to the extent those lease obligations would be characterized as indebtedness under the Credit Agreement.

The description of the Lease Amendments, the Lease and the Credit Agreement Amendment provided above is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full and complete terms of the Lease Amendments, the Lease and the Credit Agreement Amendment, respectively, which are filed as exhibits 10.13.1, 10.14.1, 10.16.1, 10.31 and 10.32 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and are incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 2.03. Creation of a Direct Financial Obligation or an Obligation under an Off-Balance Sheet Arrangement of a Registrant.

The information set forth above in Item 1.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K is incorporated by reference into this Item 2.03.

 

Item 9.01. Financial Statements and Exhibits.

 

(d) Exhibits

Exhibit No.

  

Description

10.13.1    Third Amendment to Lease between Daniel Island Executive Center, LLC and Benefitfocus.com, dated December 12, 2016.
10.14.1    First Amendment to Lease between Daniel Island Executive Center, LLC and Benefitfocus.com, dated December 12, 2016.
10.16.1    First Amendment to Lease between DIEC II, LLC and Benefitfocus.com, dated December 12, 2016.
10.31    Lease between DIEC II, LLC and Benefitfocus.com, Inc., dated as of December 12, 2016.
10.32    Fifth Amendment Agreement, dated as of December 12, 2016, by and among Benefitfocus, Inc., Benefitfocus.com, Inc. and Benefitstore, Inc., several banks and other financial institutions or entities and Silicon Valley Bank, as administrative agent and collateral agent for lenders.


SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

 

      BENEFITFOCUS, INC.
Date: December 14, 2016      

/s/ Jeffrey M. Laborde

      Jeffrey M. Laborde
      Chief Financial Officer
EX-10.13.1

Exhibit 10.13.1

THIRD AMENDMENT TO LEASE AGREEMENT

This Third Amendment to the Lease Agreement (“Third Amendment”) is made and entered into as of December 12, 2016, by and between Daniel Island Executive Center, LLC (herein “Lessor”) and Benefitfocus.com, Inc. (herein “Lessee”). The Lessor and Lessee may be referred to herein collectively as the “Parties” and either one of them may be referred to herein as a “Party”.

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee entered into that certain Lease Agreement dated January 1, 2009 (“Lease”), pursuant to which Lessor leased to Lessee and Lessee leased from Lessor such space identified as Exhibits C and D of the Lease and is now commonly known as 125 Fairchild St. – Design and Engineering; and

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee entered into that certain First Amendment to the Lease Agreement date July 1, 2012, pursuant to which Lessor leased to Lessee and Lessee leased from Lessor such space identified in Exhibit A of the First Amendment to the Lease Agreement: and

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee entered into that certain Second Amendment to the Lease Agreement dated February 1, 2013, pursuant to which Lessor leased to Lessee and Lessee leased from Lessor such space identified in Exhibit A of the Second Amendment to the Lease Agreement: and

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee now to desire to amend the Lease term.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration for concessions made by DIEC II, LLC to Lessee for waiver of the 2016 Carrying Costs and Termination Fees for the Lease Options #1 and #2 for BF4 and the Welcome Center (BF5) and the extension of the Option Period of Option #2 (Welcome Center/BF5), as further described in the “FIRST AMENDMENT TO COMMERCIAL LEASE AGREEMENT” between DIEC II, LLC and Lessee), Lessor and Lessee agree as follows:

1. Base Term . The Base Term of the Lease, as defined in Article I 1.05, shall be extended and end on December 31, 2031.

2. Co-Terminus Lease Term. In the event the Lessor and Lessee enter into a new Lease for development of BF4 or BF5/”Welcome Center” on the adjacent property to the Demised Premises during the Initial Term of this Lease, the Initial Term shall reset upon the Lease Commencement Date of BF4 or BF5/”Welcome Center” respectively to be Co-Terminus with the Initial Term of the BF4 or BF5/”Welcome Center” lease.

 

* All other provisions of the Lease remain in full force and affect.

SIGNATURE PAGE TO FOLLOW


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused these presents to be executed in their respective names by their duly authorized representatives, executing this instrument in triplicate originals, as of the day and year first above written.

 

IN THE PRESENCE OF:        
     Lessor: Daniel Island Executive Center, LLC

 

     By:   

/s/ Chad Colman

Witness      Print Name: Chad Colman
     Its: Authorized Agent

 

Witness

       
     Date of Execution: December 12, 2016
     Lessee: Benefitfocus.com, Inc.

 

     By:   

/s/ Jeff LaBorde

Witness      Print Name: Jeff LaBorde
     Its: CFO

 

Witness

    
     Date of Execution: December 12, 2016
EX-10.14.1

Exhibit 10.14.1

FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE AGREEMENT

This First Amendment to the Lease Agreement (“First Amendment”) is made and entered into as of December 12, 2016, by and between Daniel Island Executive Center, LLC (herein “Lessor”) and Benefitfocus.com, Inc. (herein “Lessee”). The Lessor and Lessee may be referred to herein collectively as the “Parties” and either one of them may be referred to herein as a “Party”.

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee entered into that certain Lease Agreement dated May 31, 2005 (“Lease”), pursuant to which Lessor leased to Lessee and Lessee leased from Lessor such space identified as Exhibits C and D of the Lease and is now commonly known as 100 Benefitfocus Way – Headquarters; and

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee now to desire to amend the Lease term.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration for concessions made by DIEC II, LLC to Lessee for waiver of the 2016 Carrying Costs and Termination Fees for the Lease Options #1 and #2 for BF4 and the Welcome Center (BF5) and the extension of the Option Period of Option #2 (Welcome Center/BF5), as further described in the “FIRST AMENDMENT TO COMMERCIAL LEASE AGREEMENT” between DIEC II, LLC and Lessee), Lessor and Lessee agree as follows:

1. Base Term . The Base Term of the Lease, as defined in Article I 1.05, shall be extended and end on December 31, 2031.

2. Co-Terminus Lease Term. In the event the Lessor and Lessee enter into a new Lease for development of BF4 or BF5/”Welcome Center” on the adjacent property to the Demised Premises during the Initial Term of this Lease, the Initial Term shall reset upon the Lease Commencement Date of BF4 or BF5/”Welcome Center” respectively to be Co-Terminus with the Initial Term of the BF4 or BF5/”Welcome Center” lease.

 

* All other provisions of the Lease remain in full force and affect.

SIGNATURE PAGE TO FOLLOW


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused these presents to be executed in their respective names by their duly authorized representatives, executing this instrument in triplicate originals, as of the day and year first above written.

 

IN THE PRESENCE OF:        
     Lessor: Daniel Island Executive Center, LLC

 

     By:   

/s/ Chad Colman

Witness      Print Name: Chad Colman
     Its: Authorized Agent

 

    
Witness        
     Date of Execution: December 12, 2016
     Lessee: Benefitfocus.com, Inc.

 

     By:   

/s/ Jeff LaBorde

Witness      Print Name: Jeff LaBorde
     Its: CFO

 

       
Witness     
     Date of Execution: December 12, 2016
EX-10.16.1

Exhibit 10.16.1

FIRST AMENDMENT TO COMMERCIAL LEASE AGREEMENT

This First Amendment to the Commercial Lease Agreement (“First Amendment”) is made and entered into as of December 12, 2016, by and between DIEC II, LLC (herein “Lessor”) and Benefitfocus.com, Inc. (herein “Lessee”). The Lessor and Lessee may be referred to herein collectively as the “Parties” and either one of them may be referred to herein as a “Party”.

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee entered into that certain Lease Agreement dated December 13, 2013 (“Lease”), pursuant to which Lessor leased to Lessee and Lessee leased from Lessor such space identified as Exhibits A and D of the Lease and is now commonly known as 215 Benefitfocus Way – Customer Success Center; and

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee now to desire to amend the Lease Option, Rent, Initial Term, Exhibit A, and Exhibit B.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration for the following, the Parties agree as follows:

 

  1. Exhibit C - Lease Option. Lessor waives any accrued, but unpaid, Option Fee for the Option #1 Carrying Costs and any future Option #1 Carrying Costs.

 

  2. Exhibit C - Lease Option. Lessor waives the Option Fee Option #1 Termination Fee.

 

  3. Exhibit C - Lease Option. Lessor waives any accrued, but unpaid, Option Fee for the Option #2 Carrying Costs and any future Option #2 Carrying Costs.

 

  4. Exhibit C - Lease Option. Lessor waives the Option Fee Option #2 Termination Fee.

 

  5. Exhibit C - Lease Option. The Option Period for Option #2 (BF5/Welcome Center) is extended to December 31, 2018.

 

  6. Article III - Rent 3.01(b).    Add the following sentence to the end of the paragraph, “If (a) Lessor and Lessee execute a new Lease for the development of Lease Option—Option #1 (BF4) prior to December 13, 2016, for delivery of the new Demised Premises on or about July 1, 2019, and (b) the Lessee does not terminate that new Lease on or prior to the Construction Commencement Date (as defined therein), the rent for each year following the Construction Commencement Date and for each year of the renewal term(s) shall increase two (2%) percent of the rent paid for the preceding Lease Year as defined below.”

 

  7. Article 1 - 1.03 Initial Term. The Initial Term of the Lease, as defined in Article I 1.05, shall be extended and end on December 31, 2031.

 

  8. Co-Terminus Lease Term. In the event the Lessor and Lessee enter into a new Lease for development of BF4 or BF5/”Welcome Center” on the adjacent property to the Demised Premises during the Initial Term of this Lease, the Initial Term shall reset upon the Lease Commencement Date of BF4 or BF5/”Welcome Center” respectively to be Co-Terminus with the Initial Term of the BF4 or BF5/”Welcome Center” lease.


  9. Exhibit A - Property. The referenced EXHIBIT A to the Lease is hereby removed and replaced with EXHIBIT A-2 attached herein.

 

  10. Exhibit B - Parking Layout. The referenced EXHIBIT B to the Lease is hereby removed and replaced with EXHIBIT B-2 attached herein.

 

* All other provisions of the Lease remain in full force and affect.

SIGNATURE PAGE TO FOLLOW


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused these presents to be executed in their respective names by their duly authorized representatives, executing this instrument in triplicate originals, as of the day and year first above written.

 

IN THE PRESENCE OF:        
     Lessor: DIEC II, LLC

 

     By:   

/s/ Chad Colman

Witness     

Print Name: Chad Colman

Its: Authorized Agent

 

    
Witness        
     Date of Execution: December 12, 2016
     Lessee: Benefitfocus.com, Inc.

 

     By:   

/s/ Jeff LaBorde

Witness     

Print Name: Jeff LaBorde

Its: CFO

 

    
Witness     
     Date of Execution: December 12, 2016
EX-10.31

Exhibit 10.31

LEASE AGREEMENT

 

LESSOR:    DIEC II, LLC
LESSEE:    Benefitfocus.com, Inc.


STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA    )   
   )    COMMERCIAL LEASE AGREEMENT
COUNTY OF BERKELEY    )   

THIS LEASE AGREEMENT (the “Lease “) is made and entered into this 12th day of December 2016, by and between DIEC II, LLC, a South Carolina limited liability company (hereinafter called “Lessor”), and Benefitfocus.com, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (hereinafter called “Lessee”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, the Lessor is the owner of certain real property known as the Daniel Island Executive Center II in the City of Charleston, State of South Carolina, as shown on the drawing of the property attached hereto and made a part hereof, labeled Exhibit A (the “Property”); and

WHEREAS, Lessor will construct an office building containing approximately ~145,800 square feet of Rentable Area, as defined in Section 1.01 of this document, on the Property (the “Demised Premises”); and

WHEREAS, Lessor desires to lease to Lessee and Lessee desires to lease from Lessor the Demised Premises as set forth below, together with a non-exclusive easement to use all driveways, parking areas, retention surface water, common areas, and other facilities as provided in this Lease.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual promises contained herein, Lessor and Lessee covenant and agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

GRANT AND TERM

1.01 Demised Premises. Lessor, for and in consideration of the rents, covenants, agreements and stipulations hereinafter mentioned, to be paid, kept, and performed by the Lessee, by these presents does lease and rent to the said Lessee, and said Lessee hereby agrees to lease and take upon the terms and conditions which are hereinafter set forth, the Demised Premises. The Demised Premises are sometimes referred to in this Lease as “Daniel Island Executive Center II.”

The Rentable Area of the Demised Premises shall be determined in accordance with “American National Standard ANSI/BOMA Z65.1—2010: Office Buildings: Standard Methods of Measurement” issued by the Building Owners and Managers Association International (“BOMA Standard”) and shall be certified to such BOMA Standard by Lessor’s architect (the “Architect”). In the event that the Architect’s measurement using the BOMA Standard differs from the rentable area of Premises set forth in above, the rentable area of the Premises shall be adjusted appropriately and the parties shall execute an amendment to this Lease reflecting said adjustment.

 

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1.02 Lessee’s Right to Use of Common Improvements. Lessor hereby grants to Lessee, its employees, invitees and licensees a non-exclusive easement during the term of the Lease for the use of all sidewalks, driveways, entrance ways and parking areas as shown on the parking layout referred to in attached Exhibit B, patios, benches and other outdoor amenities, retention ponds, and other facilities, which Lessor may establish which are adjacent to the Demised Premises (hereinafter referred to as the “Common Improvements”) at no additional charge. Lessee’s use of the Common Improvements shall be subject to reasonable rules and regulations promulgated by Lessor and such use shall be at the sole risk of Lessee. Lessor warrants that there is full and free legal ingress, egress and access to and from the Common Improvements from a public highway or road. The parking areas shall not be used for the storage of abandoned or defective vehicles or for any other purpose except parking in connection with Lessee’s permitted use of the Demised Premises. Neither Lessee nor Lessee’s employees, officers, agents, guests, invitees or other persons using the Common Improvements shall have any rights to any reserved parking space or area, and no special markings or signs may be placed on any parking spaces by Lessee, unless approved in writing by the Lessor.

Lessor reserves the right to further develop the Common Improvements for future tenants, however, Lessor shall be required to replace any parking spaces removed in the development process so that the Lessee has a minimum of 3 parking spaces per 1,000sf of office area (as defined by the City of Charleston zoning ordinance).

1.03 Initial Term. The initial term of this Lease shall be for a period of fifteen (15) years, commencing upon the date of delivery of the Demised Premises (the “Delivery Date”), which shall be the date on which: (i) Substantial Completion of both the Project (as defined below) and Tenant Improvements (as defined below) has occurred; and (ii) Lessor has delivered possession of the Demised Premises to Lessee. In the event the Lessor and Lessee enter into a new Lease for development of BF5/”Welcome Center” on the adjacent property to the Demised Premises during the Initial Term of this Lease, the Initial Term shall reset upon the Lease Commencement Date of BF5/”Welcome Center” to be Co-Terminus with the BF5/”Welcome Center” lease.

1.04 Rent Commencement Date. The payment of monthly rent for the Demised Premises shall commence on the Delivery Date and shall continue on the first day of each and every month thereafter for the remainder of the Lease term. If the Delivery Date is other than the first day of the month, the first month’s rent and the last month’s rent shall be prorated based on the actual number of days in such month.

Subject to delays caused by Force Majeure, for each day beyond July 1, 2019 that the Lessor is delayed in delivering the Demised Premises to Lessee, Lessee shall receive a day of free rent starting on the actual Rent Commencement Date.

 

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1.05 Acceptance of the Demised Premises. By occupying the Demised Premises, Lessee shall be deemed to have accepted the condition of the building and other improvements constructed by Lessor as set forth in this Lease, subject to any written punch list of items agreed to between the parties to be completed by Lessor after Lessee’s occupancy. Lessor makes no representation or warranty as to the condition of the Demised Premises except as specifically set forth elsewhere in this Lease.

1.06 Renewal Option. Provided and upon the condition that the Lessee shall not then be in default under any of the terms of this Lease Agreement at the time of the exercise of the option and at the commencement date of the renewal term, this Lease may be renewed pursuant to the terms and conditions of Exhibit I, which is attached hereto and made a part hereof.

ARTICLE II

CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDING AND OTHER IMPROVEMENTS

2.01 Lessor’s Construction of Building and Other Improvements. Lessor agrees to construct a 145,800 square foot office building and related improvements (the “Project”) in substantial accordance with the plans and specifications attached hereto and made a part hereof, labeled Exhibit D (“Project Plans and Specifications”). Lessor agrees to commence construction of the Project on or about April 1, 2018 (the “Construction Commencement Date”), and to give Lessee at least 30 days’ advance written notice thereof. Lessor agrees to use its best efforts to complete the Project according to the construction contract on or before July 1, 2019 (the “Scheduled Completion Date”). If performance is delayed for reasons or causes beyond the reasonable control of Lessor (including, but not limited to, acts of God, weather conditions, labor or material shortages, casualty losses or unforeseen construction defects) the completion date for the Project shall be extended accordingly. Lessee may cancel commencement of construction of the Project by providing written notice to the Lessor no later than the Construction Commencement Date. Lessee shall pay for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket design, development and planning costs for the Project until the Construction Commencement Date. Lessor and Lessee shall agree in writing to any and all costs incurred prior to the Construction Commencement Date. Should Lessee proceed with the Project, the Lessee will receive a credit from the Lessor for these design, development and planning costs to the extent they are attributable to the Lessor in accordance with the terms of this Lease.

Should Lessee delay commencement of construction past the Construction Commencement Date, Lessor shall have a credit of two days extension for the Scheduled Completion Date for every one day of construction delay after the Construction Commencement Date. Should Lessee delay the Construction Commencement Date beyond December 31, 2018, the Lessor may, at Lessor’s sole option, terminate this Lease.

 

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2.02 Tenant Improvements. Lessor agrees to complete or cause to be completed the interior of the building as described on the attached Exhibit F (“Work Letter”) substantially in accordance with the plans and specifications (hereinafter “Floor Plans and Specifications” or “Tenant Improvements”) provided by the Lessee to Lessor. Lessee agrees to provide Lessor with the Floor Plans and Specifications no later than eight months prior to the Project’s Scheduled Completion Date (the “Plans Due Date”). The Floor Plans and Specifications shall become a part of this Lease and be labeled as Exhibit E. Lessor agrees to use its best efforts to complete the Tenant Improvements according to the Floor Plans and Specifications on or before the Scheduled Completion Date.

Lessor agrees to pay up to Forty-Five Dollars and 00/100 ($45.00) per square foot of Rentable Area (the “Tenant Allowance”) for the Tenant Improvements. Tenant Improvements include, but are not limited to, ceiling grid and tile, low pressure duct system to each HVAC box, any additional electric systems or generators in excess of normal office use, construction of interior walls and floor coverings. Costs for all space planning and construction documents related to the Tenant Improvements are the responsibility of Lessee. Such costs exceeding the Tenant Allowance are hereinafter defined as “Excess Costs”.

2.03 Construction Conditions. Lessee agrees to bear any Excess Costs plus an additional charge of five percent (5%) of such excess to cover Lessor’s overhead, by payment to Lessor within ten (10) days after demand for such sums. If any act or omission by Lessee (including, without limitation, any delay caused in the delivery of Floor Plan and Specifications to Lessor or any changes requested therein) increases the cost of labor or materials or the time required for completion of construction, Lessee agrees to reimburse Lessor for such labor or material increase at the time the increase is incurred. If the act or omission by Lessee results in a delay of Lessor’s completion of the Project, then Lessee agrees to commence paying all rent provided for in this Lease from the date that the Project would have been completed but for the delay or delays caused by Lessee. All amounts payable by Lessee to Lessor under this Section shall be deemed to be Rent (hereinafter defined) for all purposes under this Lease Agreement.

During construction Lessor agrees to bear the risk of loss to the Tenant Improvements and agrees to maintain builder’s risk insurance coverage. Lessee agrees not to exercise any control or supervision over the contractors or subcontractors constructing the building, the Tenant Improvements or the Common Improvements.

2.04 Lessee’s Right to Enter. Lessor agrees that Lessee may, at its option, enter the Project for the limited purposes of inspecting the Tenant Improvements during the construction, and that Lessee may, in its discretion and at its own cost, make whatever installations thereof as are approved in advance by Lessor which Lessee deems necessary as soon as it can do so without interfering with the construction of the Project; provided, however, that Lessee shall bear the risk of loss caused by the installation of fixtures prior to completion of construction. Lessee understands that Lessee’s right hereunder does not allow Lessee the right to commence operations until Lessor has delivered the Demised Premises to Lessee.

 

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2.05 Occupancy. The Demised Premises shall be ready for occupancy on such date that both the Project and Tenant Improvements are Substantially Complete which is defined as (i) the supervising architect certifies both the Project and the Tenant Improvements have been substantially completed; (ii) all Certificates of Occupancy have been issued by the City of Charleston; or (iii) Lessee takes occupancy of the Demised Premises.

ARTICLE III

RENT

3.01 Rent. Beginning on the Rental Commencement Date and continuing throughout the full term of this Lease, Lessee agrees to pay to Lessor without notice, demand, reduction, abatement, set off or any defense, the rent as specified herein, in advance on or before the first day of each month.

(a) Rent During Initial Term.The annual rent during the first (1) year of the initial term of the Lease shall be Thirty and 05/100 Dollars ($30.05) per square foot of Rentable Area. This amount will be due and payable in equal, consecutive monthly installments on or before the first day of each month.

(b) Rent Increases During Initial Term and Renewal Term.The rent for each subsequent year of the initial term and for each year of the renewal term shall be increased by two (2.00%) percent of the rent paid for the preceding Lease Year as defined below.

3.02 Late Payments. All unpaid rent and other sums of whatever nature owed by Lessee to Lessor under this Lease Agreement and remaining unpaid five (5) days after the due date shall bear a late penalty equal to ten (10%) percent of the then amount due which shall be deemed to be additional rent hereunder. Acceptance by Lessor of any payment from Lessee hereunder in an amount less than that which is currently due shall in no way affect Lessor’s rights under this Lease Agreement and shall in no way constitute an accord and satisfaction.

ARTICLE IV

OPERATING EXPENSES

4.01 Operating Expense Increases. During the initial term and renewal term of this Lease, the annual rent shall be adjusted for increases in Operating Expenses, (as hereinafter defined), in the following manner:

 

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(a) The rent includes an annual expense stop (the “Expense Stop”) of Five and 05/100 Dollars ($5.05) per square foot of the Rentable Area. The first year’s Estimated CAM and Operating Expenses are attached hereto as Exhibit G. Each full twelve-month calendar period from the beginning of the Rent Commencement Date shall be a “Lease Year.” Commencing with the beginning of the second Lease Year, Lessee shall be responsible for its proportionate share of the cost of Operating Expenses over the Expense Stop amount stated herein, which amount (so estimated by Lessor) shall be paid by Lessee until such time as actual expenses are available (after the end of the initial Lease Year and successive Lease Years), when the proportionate share shall be adjusted pursuant to this Lease, to reflect the prior year’s expenses. In no event will Lessor be liable to reimburse Lessee for any expense adjustment to the amount that is less than the amount incurred during the initial Lease Year. Operating Expenses which are not directly attributable to the Demised Premises shall be prorated by dividing the total number of square feet of Rentable Area in the Demised Premises by the total number of Rentable Area in the Demised Premises plus any future Building constructed by Lessor or its successor on the real property adjoining the Demised Premises.

(b) Lessor agrees to furnish Lessee annual statements prepared by the chief financial officer or manager of Lessor and certified by such officer, partner or an independent certified public accountant showing Operating Expenses for the Lease Year. If Operating Expenses during the Lease Year are greater than the expense stop amount, Lessee shall pay its share of the overage to Lessor within thirty (30) days from receipt of such certified statements. As used in this Article, “Operating Expenses” shall include only those items customarily considered in good accounting practice to be building operating expenses, such as ordinary or extraordinary repairs not covered by insurance, maintenance, cleaning, janitorial services, utilities, supplies, real estate taxes, common area maintenance and assessment charges, premiums for fire, casualty and liability insurance with respect to the improvements on the Demised Premises, and management fees not in excess of three percent (3%) of gross rent. Lessee is not liable for increases in controllable expenses over the previous lease year in excess of three percent (3%).“Controllable Expenses” means all Operating Expenses other than taxes, insurance, reasonable third party maintenance and utilities, provided that insurance premiums paid for the Demised Premises shall not increase by reason of any action or inaction of Landlord that causes such increase. Operating Expenses shall not include any expenses related to financing, depreciation, amortization, costs of a capital nature, costs for which Lessee or other occupants of the Building are charged other than pursuant to the Operating Expense clauses, costs of procuring lessees, attorneys’ fees, accounting fees, nor administrative salaries and wages except for personnel working exclusively for the buildings using the Common Improvements. Operating Expenses shall include only those costs actually paid by Lessor.

(c) Provided Lessee is not in default under the terms of this Lease and subject to the terms hereof, Lessee (or its designated representative), at its sole expense, shall have the right once per calendar year during the Term to audit Lessor’s books and records relating to the Operating Expenses for the immediately preceding two (2) calendar years. This audit must take place on a mutually agreeable date during reasonable business hours at Lessor’s office and only after Lessee has given Lessor at

 

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least three (3) days prior written notice of the date and time Lessee desires to commence such audit. If Lessee elects to audit Lessor’s books and records, Lessee shall have the right to perform an audit of the Operating Expenses for the immediately preceding two (2) calendar years, such audit to be conducted by a reputable accounting firm. If any such audit reveals an error by Lessor resulting in an overcharge to Lessee, then Lessor shall promptly reimburse Lessee for the amount erroneously charged to Lessee. Likewise, if any such audit reveals an error resulting in Lessee being undercharged, then Lessee shall promptly reimburse Lessor for the amount of such deficiency. If any audit performed by Lessee reveals that the Operating Expenses in total have been overstated by more than five percent (5%), Lessor shall pay and/or reimburse Lessee for the cost of the audit.

ARTICLE V

SERVICES

5.01 Services. Subject to conditions beyond Lessor’s control, Lessor agrees, at its expense (up to the annual expense stop), to:

(a) Provide individual utility metering controlled by Lessee.

(b) Maintain the lavatories and toilets in good working order; keep them in a clean and safe condition, well lighted and well ventilated.

(c) Furnish hot and cold water for lavatory purposes.

(d) Furnish electric current for lighting and general office purposes and for parking areas.

(e) Provide and install initial light tubes, flood lamps and bulbs. Lessee is responsible for labor and materials for replacement of all light bulbs.

(f) Keep the sidewalks, corridors, stairways, and all other means of ingress and egress to the Common Improvements clean, in good repair and safe condition, well-marked, and well lighted.

(g) Keep all lawns, shrubbery and trees on the grounds of the Common Improvements in good order and condition and neat in appearance, and replant grass and shrubbery when necessary to maintain the Common Improvements in good appearance and condition.

(h) Provide Lessee access to the Common Improvements twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.

 

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5.02 Janitorial Duties. Lessee agrees to be responsible for all building janitorial services including the windows, fixtures and furnishings therein, and during the business week will provide for the daily removal and disposal of wastepaper and rubbish. Lessee agrees to be responsible for the following minimum janitorial services:

(a) Each night from Monday through Friday empty wastepaper baskets and remove refuse from the Demised Premises and Common Improvements, dust office furniture, equipment, and sweep non-carpeted floors with chemically treated cloths, vacuum clean the carpeting and clean the toilets and lavatory facilities.

(b) At least monthly or more frequently when necessary wash non-carpeted floors, spot clean the carpeting and dust venetian blinds.

(c) At least annually, wash windows on both sides.

(e) Provide adequate vermin and pest control services.

5.03 Carpet and Window Coverings. Lessee agrees to maintain the carpeting, partition base, and window coverings throughout the Demised Premises in good condition and repair, including but not limited to, spot cleaning and periodic general cleaning and shampooing.

ARTICLE VI

TAXES AND ASSESSMENTS

6.01 Taxes and Assessments. Lessee agrees to pay any taxes, documentary stamps or assessments of any nature imposed or assessed upon the Demised Premises or Lessee’s occupancy of the Demised Premises or upon Lessee’s furniture, furnishings, trade fixtures, equipment, machinery, inventory, merchandise or other personal property located on the Demised Premises and owned by or in the custody of Lessee promptly as all such taxes or assessments may become due and payable without any delinquency. If applicable in the jurisdiction where the Demised Premises are located, Lessee shall pay and be liable for all rental tax (only to the extent such rental tax is levied in lieu of ad valorem property taxes against the Demised Premises), sales, use and inventory taxes, fees in lieu of taxes, or other similar taxes, if any, levied or imposed by any city, state, county or other governmental body having authority, such payments to be in addition to all other payments required to be paid by Lessor by Lessee under the terms of this Lease. Such payment shall be made by Lessee directly to such governmental body if billed to Lessee, or if billed to Lessor, such payment shall be paid concurrently with the payment of monthly rent, Additional Rent, or such other charge upon which the tax is based, all as set forth herein. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee shall have the right, at its sole cost and expense, to contest such taxes, and upon contesting the amount of such taxes. Lessee shall deposit the amount of such taxes into an escrow account reasonably acceptable to Lessor.

Lessee shall timely pay directly to the applicable governmental taxing authorities any and all taxes with respect to any and all of Lessee’s personal property, leasehold improvements, trade fixtures, inventory or other personal property which shall at any time be situated at the Demised Premises or on the Common Improvements..

 

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ARTICLE VII

INSURANCE

7.01 Fire and Extended Coverage Insurance. During the initial term and the renewal term of this Lease, Lessor covenants and agrees to maintain a policy or policies of insurance on the Demised Premises, including Improvements therein, providing insurance protection against risks of direct physical loss, specifically including protection against damage or destruction by fire, flood and other casualties excluding earthquake coverage, and vandalism coverage. Said insurance coverage shall be in the amount equal to a minimum of the Lessor’s cost in the building, including the permanent improvements thereon, under a policy or policies issued by responsible insurance companies authorized to do business in the State of South Carolina. The Lessee agrees that it will not do or keep anything in or about the Demised Premises or the Common Improvements which will violate the terms of Lessor’s insurance policies or which will prevent the Lessor from procuring such policies without penalty in companies acceptable to Lessor.

7.02 Insurance by Lessee. Lessee covenants and agrees, at its sole cost and expense, to maintain a policy of insurance on the interior of the Demised Premises and upon its personal property, fixtures, equipment and merchandise therein, providing insurance protection against risks of direct physical loss, specifically including protection against damage or destruction by fire, flood and other casualties, excluding earthquake, and vandalism insurance.

7.03 Lessee’s Liability Insurance. The Lessee agrees to indemnify, hold and save the harmless, and to protect and defend Lessor, at all times during the initial term and renewal term of this Lease, from and against any losses, damages, costs, or expenses on account of any claim for injury by a third party, including death or damage either to person or property sustained by the Lessor which arises out of the use and occupancy of the Demised Premises or the Common Improvements by the Lessee, its agents, employees, invitees, and customers (except those resulting from Lessor’s gross negligence or willful acts). Lessee agrees to give Lessor prompt written notice of all claims made against the Lessee that come within the scope of the indemnification in this Section and agrees not settle any such claim without the Lessor’s written consent. In connection herewith, Lessee shall, at its own expense, provide and keep in force, for the benefit and protection of the Lessor and Lessee as their respective interests may appear, and with the Lessor as an additional insured, a general liability policy or policies in standard form issued by reliable companies approved by Lessor and licensed to do business in the State of South Carolina, with minimum limits of $2,000,000.00 combined single limits coverage. A renewal policy shall be obtained not less than ten (10) days prior to the expiration of any policy and a certificate of the insurer evidencing such insurance, with proof of payment of premium, shall be provided to Lessor.

 

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7.04 Subrogation. All insurance policies required by this Article shall contain a waiver of any right of subrogation by any such insurer against either party. Each of the parties hereby waives any rights it may have against the other party on account of any loss or damage to its property (including the Common Improvements and its contents) which arises from any risk ordinarily covered by fire and extended coverage insurance or any other insurance required to be carried hereunder, whether or not such other party may have been negligent or at fault in causing such loss or damage. Each party shall obtain a clause or endorsement in the policies of such insurance, which either party obtains in connection with the Common Improvements to the effect that the insurer waives, or shall otherwise be denied, the right of subrogation against the other party for loss covered by such insurance.

ARTICLE VIII

REPAIRS

8.01 Repairs. All repairs, both ordinary and extraordinary, to the Demised Premises, excluding the Common Improvements, including but not limited to, the plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, electric wiring, and lighting apparatus, necessary to keep them in proper order shall be made by Lessee at Lessee’s expense. Any repairs, changes, or additions to the Common Improvements which may be required in order to bring the Common Improvements into compliance with any Federal, State, or municipal law, statute, ordinance, decision, rule or regulation shall be made by Lessor at Lessor’s expense.

8.02 Alterations and Remodeling. After the commencement of initial term of this Lease, with the prior written consent of the Lessor, which shall not be unreasonably withheld, Lessee may, at Lessee’s expense, make such alterations, additions, decorations and changes to the interior of the building and exterior lighting of the Common Improvements as it deems necessary for its purposes provided that the value of the buildings and improvements are not thereby diminished subject to the following conditions:

(a) That if any such work increases any insurance premiums, taxes, or other costs or expenses relating to the Common Improvements, Lessee shall timely and fully pay and satisfy same.

(b) That no casualty or mechanics or materialmen’s claims or liens shall be created upon the Common Improvements or elsewhere by reason of or with respect to the work or a condition of the Common Improvements thereafter resulting from said work; and

(c) That upon expiration or any earlier termination of the Lease Agreement, Lessee shall, at its cost and expense, upon the election of Lessor, promptly remove the alterations and repairs and restore the Demised Premises to the condition existing prior to installation of the same. Any and all alterations, additions and improvements to the Common Improvements (other than inventory and trade fixtures) installed by or on behalf of Lessee shall immediately, at Lessor’s option, become part of the Common Improvements and at the expiration or other termination of this Lease Agreement shall be surrendered to the Lessor.

 

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ARTICLE IX

USE AND CONDUCT OF BUSINESS

9.01 Use of the Demised Premises. Lessee agrees to use and occupy the Demised Premises solely for office purposes.

9.02 Nuisance. Lessee agrees not to create or allow any public or private nuisance to exist at the Demised Premises, and to abate any such nuisance that may arise, promptly and free of expense to Lessor.

9.03 Compliance with Laws, Rules and Regulations. Lessee agrees to comply with all applicable governmental laws, ordinances, orders, rules and regulations of all federal, state and municipal governments and appropriate departments, commissions boards and officers thereof. Additionally, Lessee agrees to comply with Lessor’s Rules and Regulations set forth in Exhibit H attached hereto and made a part hereof.

9.04 Zoning. Lessee acknowledges that the use of the Demised Premises and the Common Improvements is subject to any applicable regulations, zoning ordinances, including Planned Development Districts, if applicable, of any governmental authority and Lessee agrees to be bound by all terms and conditions imposed by such governmental authority, including any traffic restrictions, use restrictions and other conditions which plan approval is conditioned upon and all present and future zoning laws, ordinances, resolutions and regulations of any appropriate governmental authority.

9.05 Lessee’s Right to Contest Regulations. Lessee shall have the right, after notice to Lessor to contest by appropriate legal proceedings, without cost or expense to Lessor, the validity of any law, ordinance, order, rule, and regulation or requirement of the nature herein referred to and to postpone Lessee’s compliance with the same, provided such contest shall be promptly and diligently prosecuted by and at the expense of Lessee so that Lessor shall not thereby suffer any civil liability, or be subjected to any criminal prosecution, penalties, or sanctions and that Lessee shall properly protect and save harmless Lessor against any liability and claims for any such non-compliance or postponement of compliance.

 

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ARTICLE X

QUIET ENJOYMENT

10.01 It is a condition of this Lease Agreement that Lessor has a good and marketable title to the Common Improvements free and clear of all liens and encumbrances except those to which Lessee has specifically consented in writing; that Lessor has the right to lease the same; that Lessor warrants and will defend Common Improvements unto Lessee against the lawful claims of all persons whomsoever; that so long as the rents are being paid in the manner herein provided and the covenants, conditions and agreements herein being all and singularly kept, fulfilled and performed by Lessee, Lessee shall lawfully, peacefully and quietly hold, occupy and enjoy the Common Improvements during the term herein granted without any let, hindrance, ejection or molestation by Lessor or any person claiming under Lessor.

ARTICLE XI

ENVIRONMENTAL

11.01 Lessor’s Environmental Warranty. Prior to the signing of this Lease Agreement, Lessor has not caused or permitted persons with whom Lessor has contracted to cause (a) any violation of any federal, state or local law, ordinance, or regulation enacted related to environmental conditions on or about the Common Improvements, including, but not limited to soil and groundwater conditions, nor (b) engaged in the use, generation, release, manufacture, production, processing, storage, or disposal of any Hazardous Substance (as hereinafter defined) on, under, or about the Common Improvements. The term “Hazardous Substance” as used herein shall include, without limitation, flammable, explosives, radioactive materials, asbestos, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB’s), chemicals known to cause cancer or reproductive toxicity, pollutants, contaminants, hazardous wastes, toxic products, and substances declared to be hazardous or toxic under any law or regulation promulgated by any governmental authority.

11.02 Hazardous Waste. Lessee covenants and warrants that it will not knowingly cause or permit to be brought upon the Common Improvements or installed in any buildings or improvements thereon any asbestos in any form, urea formaldehyde insulation, transformers or any other equipment which contain dielectric fluid containing levels of polychlorinated biphenyl in excess of fifty parts per million of any other chemical material or substance which is regulated as toxic or hazardous or exposure to which is prohibited, limited or regulated by any federal or state authority or which may or could pose a hazard to the health or safety of the occupants of the Common Improvements or the owners of the property adjacent to the Common Improvements . The Lessee shall not install, store, use, treat, transport or dispose of on the Common Improvements any regulated hazardous or toxic materials or waste, and in the event of any such installation, storage, use, treatment, presence, transportation or disposal during the term of this Lease Agreement, the Lessee shall remove any such hazardous materials or waste and comply with the regulations and orders of any authority having jurisdiction of the same, all at the expense of the Lessee, including necessary removal, cleanup or other remediation, and if Lessee shall fail to proceed with such removal or comply with such regulations or orders, the Lessor may declare this Lease Agreement in default. Lessee shall indemnify Lessor and hold Lessor harmless from any and all losses, damages or expenses which may be incurred by Lessor for the presence or removal from the Common Improvements of any such hazardous materials or waste caused by any activity of Lessee on the Common Improvements and the liability of the Lessee to Lessor under the Covenants hereof shall survive termination of this Lease Agreement or any transfer of the leasehold estate or the fee estate by either Lessor or Lessee.

 

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ARTICLE XII

SIGNAGE

12.01 Lessee may after Lessor’s approval, at Lessee’s expense, furnish and install an identification sign in front of or attached to the Demised Premises, which bears the name of Lessee’s business and/or logo provided, however, such signs shall meet the standards (i.e., color and quality) of the Daniel Island Office Park Guidelines.

ARTICLE XIII

DESTRUCTION

13.01 If, during the initial term or renewal term of this Lease, the Common Improvements and/or Demised Premises are:

(a) destroyed by fire or any other casualty whatsoever, or;

(b) partially destroyed so as to render the Demised Premises unfit for occupancy or Lessee’s reasonable beneficial use and enjoyment or conduct of Lessee’s usual business therein, or;

(c) destroyed by a casualty which is not covered by Lessor’s insurance, or if such casualty is covered by Lessor’s insurance but a mortgagee of Lessor or other party entitled to insurance proceeds fails to make such proceeds available to Lessor in an amount sufficient for restoration of the Demised Premises and/or Common Improvements (provided, however, that Lessor agrees to make a good faith effort to have such mortgagee make such proceeds available for full restoration or rebuilding);

then Lessor shall make its reasonable determination as to the length of time to complete such repairs within thirty (30) days of the casualty and shall notify Lessee of same as provided herein. In the event restoration is reasonably estimated by Lessor to take more than three hundred (300) days from the date of the destruction or casualty, or in the event the above described destruction or casualty should occur within the last two (2) years of the Lease, then Lessor or Lessee shall have the right to terminate this Lease Agreement. In the event that the Lease Agreement is terminated in accordance with the foregoing provisions, Lessee shall surrender within thirty (30) days of notification the Demised Premises and Common Improvements and interest therein, and Lessee shall pay rent only to the time of such destruction or casualty.

 

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In case of the total or partial damage or destruction to the Demised Premises and/or Common Improvements, Lessor shall re-enter and repossess the same or any part thereof for the purpose of removing or repairing the loss or damage and shall proceed with due diligence to the repair of same unless, under the foregoing provisions of this Article XIII, the Lease Agreement shall have been terminated. The Rent during the period of such repairs shall be wholly abated if all of the Demised Premises and/or Common Improvements have been thus repossessed by Lessor or otherwise made unavailable to Lessee for Lessee’s reasonable beneficial use and enjoyment or Lessee’s conduct of Lessee’s usual business therein for the purpose of repair for the period that Lessee has been dispossessed; and if only a portion of the Demised Premises and/or Common Improvements is thus repossessed or otherwise unavailable to Lessee for Lessee’s reasonable beneficial use and enjoyment or Lessee’s conduct of Lessee’s usual business therein, the Rent shall be abated for such dispossession or unavailability pro rata, based on the portion of the Demised Premises and/or Common Improvements thus repossessed or rendered unavailable during the period of repossession or unavailability. Any Rent abatement under this Article XIII shall commence as of the date of the destruction.

Lessor shall not be required to rebuild, repair, or replace any part of the personal property, furniture, equipment, fixtures, and other improvements which may have been placed by Lessee or other lessees within the Demised Premises or Common Improvements, unless the damage thereto is caused by the sole negligence or willful act or omission or default hereunder of Lessor or Lessor’s agents, employees, subtenants, assignees, or independent contractors. Any insurance which may be carried by Lessor or Lessee for damage to the Demised Premises or to any personal property, fixtures, and related items therein shall be for the sole benefit of the party carrying such insurance and under its sole control; provided, however, Lessor shall carry insurance for the benefit of Lessor and Lessee sufficient to cover the full replacement cost of the shell of the Demised Premises and an amount equal to the initial Tenant Improvements, and other improvements that Lessor shall have liability therefore under Article VII.

Should the Demised Premises or the Common Improvements be destroyed or damaged by fire or other casualty that is due to the negligence or willful or wanton conduct of Lessee or Lessee’s agents, employees, subtenants, assignees or independent contractors, Lessor may repair such damage, and there shall be no apportionment or abatement of Rent.

ARTICLE XIV

CONDEMNATION

14.01 Lessor, within ten (10) days of Lessor’s receipt of any notice of the institution of condemnation proceedings or threat thereof with respect to all or any part of the Common Improvements, shall give written notice to Lessee of the same. Lessee shall have the option to terminate this Lease within sixty (60) days after receipt of said notice from the Lessor should such condemnation affect twenty percent (20%) or more of the Demised Premises and Lessee reasonably determines that such condemnation will interfere with Lessee’s ability to continue its business operations in substantially the

 

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same manner as existed prior to the condemnation or deed in lieu thereof. Lessee’s obligation under this Lease including but not limited to Lessee’s obligation to pay rent hereunder, shall cease upon Lessee’s termination of this Lease pursuant to the terms of this Section; however, the Lessee shall be obligated to pay all rent due on or before the date of termination down through the date Lessee surrenders possession of the Demised Premises to the Lessor. Lessor shall be entitled to the entire condemnation award based on the value of the real property. Lessee may assert a separate claim to the condemning authority for its damages.

ARTICLE XV

DEFAULT

15.01 Default by Lessee. The occurrence of any of the following events shall constitute a default under this Lease Agreement:

(a) Lessee fails to pay any installment of rent within ten (10) business days after such installment is due, and fails to cure such delinquency within five (5) business days after actual receipt of written notice thereof by Lessee from Lessor:

(b) Lessee fails to pay any additional item or any other charge or sum required to be paid by Lessee hereunder within thirty (30) days after actual receipt of written notice thereof by Lessee from Lessor;

(c) Lessee fails to perform or commence in good faith and proceed with reasonable diligence to perform any of its covenants under this Lease Agreement within thirty (30) days after actual receipt of written notice thereof by Lessee from Lessor.

15.02 Lessor’s Remedies. In the event Lessee is in default pursuant to the conditions set forth in Section 15.01 above, Lessor, during the continuation of such default, shall have the option of pursuing either of the following remedies:

(a) Lessor may terminate this Lease Agreement, in which event Lessee immediately shall surrender possession of the Demised Premises. All obligations of Lessee under the Lease Agreement, including Lessee’s obligation to pay rent under the Lease Agreement, shall cease upon the date of termination except for Lessee’s obligation to pay rent due and outstanding as of the date of termination.

(b) Lessor, without terminating the Lease Agreement, may require Lessee to remove all property from the Demised Premises within thirty (30) days so that Lessor may re-enter and re-let the premises to minimize Lessor’s damages. In the event Lessee shall fail to remove all property within thirty (30) days after said demand, Lessor shall be entitled to remove Lessee’s property to a storage facility, and all reasonable costs of such removal and storage shall be deemed additional rent under the Lease Agreement for which Lessee is responsible for payment. Lessor may enforce all of its rights and remedies under this Lease Agreement, including the right to recover the rent as it becomes due hereunder, provided that Lessor shall have an affirmative obligation to use Lessor’s best efforts to re-let the Demised Premises and to mitigate its damages under the Lease Agreement.

 

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(c) If this Lease Agreement is terminated as set forth, Lessor may re-let the Demised Premises (or any portion thereof) for such rent and upon such terms as Lessor is able to obtain (which may be for lower or higher rent, and for a shorter or longer term), and Lessee shall be liable for all damages sustained by Lessor, including but not limited to any deficiency in Rent for the duration of the Lease Term (or for the period of time which would have remained in the Lease Term in the absence of any termination, leasing fees, attorneys’ fees, other marketing and collection costs and all expenses of placing the Demised Premises in first class rentable condition).

(d) Nothing contained herein diminishes any right Lessor may have under South Carolina law to sue Lessee for damages in the event of any default by Lessee under this Lease Agreement, or from pursuing any other remedy available to Lessor at law or in equity.

ARTICLE XVI

LESSEE’S RIGHT TO SUBLEASE AND ASSIGN

16.01 Lessee may not sublet the Demised Premises or assign this Lease Agreement without the prior written consent of the Lessor, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed and if such consent is granted, Lessee shall remain liable to Lessor for the faithful performance of all of the covenants and conditions, including rental payment, required to be kept and performed under the terms of this Lease Agreement. Any assignment by operation of law as a result of a corporate merger or re-organization shall not require the previous written consent of Lessor. Notwithstanding anything contained in this Lease Agreement to the contrary and provided such transfer does not change the use as allowed in Paragraph 9.01, Lessee shall have the right, without obtaining the consent of Lessor, to assign, sublet or otherwise transfer Lessee’s interest in or under this Lease Agreement to Lessee’s parent corporation, any subsidiary of Lessee or to any other affiliate of Lessee (collectively, “Permitted Transfer”). In addition, Lessee shall not be required to comply with any other requirements under this Lease Agreement which relates to an assignment, subletting or other transfer of Lessee’s interest hereunder (including, without limitation, payment of any transfer fee) if such assignment, subletting or other transfer is a Permitted Transfer. However, no Permitted Transfer shall relieve Lessee from any obligations under this Lease Agreement.

16.02 Violation. Any violation of any provision of this Lease Agreement, whether by act or omission, by any assignee or subtenant of Lessee, shall be deemed a violation of such provision by the Lessee, it being the intention and meaning of the parties hereto that the Lessee shall assume and be liable to the Lessor for any and all acts and omissions of any and all assignees or subtenants of Lessee. If the Demised Premises or any part thereof is sublet or occupied by any person other than the Lessee, Lessor, in the event of Lessee’s default, may and is hereby empowered to collect rent from the subtenant or occupant; the Lessor may apply the net amount received by it to the rent herein reserved and no such collection shall be deemed a release of the Lessee from the further performance of the covenants herein contained.

 

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ARTICLE XVII

LESSOR’S RIGHT TO MORTGAGE AND SELL

17.01 Estoppel Certificate. Within five (5) days after written request therefor by either Lessor or Lessee to the other, or in the event that upon any sale, assignment, mortgage or hypothecation of the Demised Premises or a leasehold loan by Lessee of its leasehold estate herein, an estoppel statement shall be required from Lessor or Lessee. Lessor and Lessee agree to deliver to each other, in recordable form, a certificate to any proposed mortgagee or purchaser, certifying that this Lease Agreement is in full force and effect, that there are no defenses thereto, or stating those claimed by Lessor or Lessee, and as to such other matters as may be reasonably requested.

17.02 Subordination and Attornment. Upon Lessor’s request, during the term of this Lease Agreement, Lessee shall execute a subordination agreement in recordable form wherein Lessee shall agree that this Lease Agreement is and shall be subordinate to the lien of any mortgages in any amount or amounts on all or any part of the land or buildings comprising the Property, or on or against Lessor’s interest or estate therein; provided that such subordination agreement shall recite that the subordination of Lessee’s interests pursuant thereto are subject to the agreement by the mortgagee named in any such mortgage and to any purchaser at a sale pursuant to foreclosure thereof, to recognize the Lease Agreement of Lessee in the event of foreclosure of any such mortgage if Lessee is not in default under the Lease Agreement. Lessee covenants and agrees to execute and deliver upon demand such further instruments evidencing such subordination of this Lease Agreement to the lien of any such mortgage as may be required by the Lessor within ten (10) days of demand therefor. Notwithstanding anything hereinabove contained, in the event the holder of any such mortgage shall at any time elect to have this Lease Agreement constitute a prior or superior lien to its mortgage, then and in such event upon any such mortgage holder notifying Lessee to that effect, this Lease Agreement shall be deemed prior and superior in lien to such mortgage irrespective of whether this Lease Agreement is dated prior to or subsequent to the date of such mortgage or lease.

If Lessor enters into one or more mortgages and Lessee is advised in writing of the name and address of the mortgagee under such mortgage, then this Lease Agreement shall not be terminated or canceled on account of any default by the Lessor in the performance of any of the terms, covenants or conditions hereof on its part contained, until Lessee shall have given written notice of such default to such mortgagee, specifying the default, in which event such mortgagee shall have the right to cure Lessor’s default as otherwise provided herein and which cure shall be accepted by Lessee.

 

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Lessee shall, in the event any proceedings are brought for the foreclosure of or in the event of sale under any mortgage made by the Lessor covering the Premises, attorn to the purchaser upon any such foreclosure of sale and recognize such purchaser as the Lessor under this Lease Agreement.

As a condition of Lessee’s obligations under the Lease, Lessor shall deliver a subordination, non-disturbance and attornment agreement in a form satisfactory to Lessor’s mortgage lender and shall cause Lessor’s mortgage lender to execute said agreement and thereafter record it at the Berkeley County R.O.D. Office.

17.03 Transfer of Lessor’s Interest. Lessor shall have the right to convey, transfer or assign, by sale or otherwise, all or any part of its interest in this Lease Agreement or the Property at any time and from time to time and to any person, subject to the terms and conditions of this Lease Agreement. All covenants and obligations of Lessor under this Lease Agreement shall not cease upon the execution of such conveyance, transfer or assignment, but such covenants and obligations shall run with the land and shall be binding upon any subsequent owner thereof.

17.04 Personal Guarantee Covenant. Notwithstanding anything else in this Lease, Lessor and its principals currently personally guaranteeing any financing on the Project or other property leased by Lessor or any of its affiliates to Lessee, covenant that they will keep those personal guarantees in place and effective at least through December 31, 2018. Any attempt by Lessor or such principals to terminate or modify those personal guarantees will be void ab initio.

ARTICLE XVIII

SURRENDER OF PREMISES

18.01 Trade Fixtures. All equipment and every other item of property not permanently attached to the Demised Premises and not paid for by Lessor, and any of such items leased by Lessee under bona fide leases from third party owners, are to remain and be the property of Lessee and Lessee is to have the right and privilege of removing any and all such property and equipment at any time during the continuance of this Lease Agreement or any extensions hereof and within thirty (30) days thereafter. In the event the aforesaid equipment is not removed by Lessee within said thirty (30) day period, title thereto shall automatically pass to and vest in Lessor. If said equipment is removed, Lessee shall restore the Demised Premises to their condition prior to the removal of such property. It is further understood and agreed that the buildings and structures installed on the Property by Lessor, may not be removed by Lessee at the termination of this Lease Agreement.

18.02 Surrender. The Lessee shall on the expiration or the sooner termination of the Lease Agreement surrender to Lessor the Property, including all buildings, replacements, changes, additions, and improvements constructed or placed by the Lessee thereon, except for all moveable trade fixtures, equipment, and personal property belonging to the Lessee, broom-clean, free of sub-tenancies, and in good condition and repair, reasonable wear and tear excepted.

 

18


ARTICLE XIX

LESSOR-AGENT AGREEMENT

19.01 The Lessor and the Lessee each respectively represents and warrants to the other that no real estate broker or other person is entitled to a fee, commission, or any other remuneration in respect of the execution or performance of this Lease Agreement; and each of the Lessor and the Lessee hereby covenants and agrees to hold the other harmless from any fee, commission, cost or damage incurred as a result of any breach of the foregoing warranties.

ARTICLE XX

SECURITY DEPOSIT

(INTENTIONALLY OMITTED)

ARTICLE XXI

MISCELLANEOUS

21.01 Lessor’s Entry. The Lessor shall have the right to enter upon the Demised Premises and Common Improvements at all reasonable times without prior notice during the term of this Lease Agreement for the purposes of inspection, maintenance, repair and alteration and to show the same to prospective lessees or purchasers.

21.02 Nature and Extent of Agreement. This Lease, all Exhibits attached hereto and all documents referenced in the Exhibits contain the entire agreement of the parties regarding the terms and conditions of this Lease and there are no oral or written conditions, terms, understandings, or other agreements pertaining thereto which have not been incorporated herein. This Lease may be amended from time to time only by written addendum signed by both parties. This Lease creates only the relationship of Lessor and Lessee between the parties hereto as to the Demised Premises; and nothing herein shall in any way be construed to impose upon either party hereto any obligations or restrictions not herein expressly set forth

21.03 Partial Invalidity. If any term, covenant or condition of this Lease or the application thereof to any person or circumstances shall, to any extent, be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder to this Lease, or the application of such term, covenant or condition to persons or circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid or unenforceable, shall not be affected thereby and each term, covenant or condition of this Lease shall be valid and be enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

21.04 Recording. This Lease shall not be recorded, however, upon the request of either party hereto the other party shall join in the execution of a memorandum or so-called “short form” of this Lease Agreement, in format substantially similar to Lease Addendum Number One, attached hereto and incorporated herein, for the purpose of recordation. Such memorandum or short form shall describe the parties, Demised Premises, the Common Improvements, the term of this Lease and shall incorporate this Lease by reference.

 

19


21.05 Attorneys Fees and Expenses. In the event either party commences any action (at law or in equity), the prevailing party in such action shall be entitled to an award of its costs and attorney’s fees incurred against the non-prevailing party whether the action be based on contract or tort theory, at all trial and appellate levels.

21.06 Notice. Any notice which Lessor or Lessee is required or desires to give to the other shall be deemed sufficiently given or rendered if in writing, either personally via hand delivery, or sent by certified or registered mail, postage or fees prepaid, or sent by recognized overnight courier (such as FedEx or DHL), service fees prepaid, to:

 

  Lessor:       

DIEC II, LLC

c/o Atlantic Corporate Services, LLC

940 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 201

Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

 

Phone: 843-606-2397

 

With copy to:

 

Amplify LLC

 

186 Seven Farms Drive, F#399

 

Daniel Island, SC 29492

  Lessee:       

Benefitfocus.com, Inc.

100 Benefitfocus Way

Charleston, SC 29492

Attn: General Counsel

Phone: (843)-849-7476

21.07 Applicable Law. Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Lease Agreement shall be governed by the substantive and procedural laws of the State of South Carolina without consideration of the conflicts of law rules of said state.

21.08 Captions. The captions or headings at the beginning of articles and sections of this Lease are included for convenience only and in no way define, limit, or describe the scope of any provision hereof.

21.09 Binding Effect. This Lease shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns.

 

20


21.10 Duplicate Counterparts. This Lease may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which shall constitute one and the same instrument.

21.11 Additional Documents. Each party shall, at the request of the other, execute, acknowledge, (if appropriate) and deliver such additional documents and instruments, and do such other acts as may be necessary or convenient to call out the purposes and intent of this Lease and to permit the Lessee to record this Lease Agreement, pursuant to 21.04, and grant security interests therein. This Lease may be signed in triplicate originals by the parties.

21.12 Addenda and Exhibits. If any addenda and/or exhibits are noted below, such addenda and exhibits are incorporated herein and made a part of this Lease.

Lease Addendum Number One- “Memorandum of Lease”

Lease Addendum Number Two- “Commencement Agreement”

Exhibit A- “Property”

Exhibit B- “Parking Layout”

Exhibit C- “Lease Option”

Exhibit D- “The Project”

Exhibit E- “Tenant Improvements”

Exhibit F- “Work Letter”

Exhibit G- “Estimated Expenses”

Exhibit H- “Rules and Regulation”

Exhibit I- “Renewal Option”

(The remainder of this page is intentionally left blank. Next page is signature page.)

 

21


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused these presents to be executed in their respective names by their duly authorized representatives, executing this instrument in triplicate originals, as of the day and year first above written.

 

IN THE PRESENCE OF:     
     Lessor: DIEC II, LLC

 

     By:   

/s/ Chad Colman

Witness      Print Name: Chad Colman

 

     Its: Authorized Agent
Witness        
     Date of Execution: December 12, 2016
     Lessee: Benefitfocus.com, Inc.

 

     By:   

/s/ Jeff LaBorde

Witness      Print Name: Jeff LaBorde

 

     Its: CFO
Witness     
     Date of Execution: December 12, 2016
     FOR PURPOSES OF SECTION 17.04:

 

       

/s/ Mason R. Holland, Jr.

Witness      Print Name: Mason R. Holland, Jr.

 

    
Witness     
     Date of Execution: December 12, 2016

 

       

/s/ Shawn A. Jenkins

Witness      Print Name: Shawn A. Jenkins

 

    
Witness     
     Date of Execution: December 12, 2016


LEASE ADDENDUM NUMBER ONE

Memorandum of Lease

Prepared by and return to:

 

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA  

MEMORANDUM OF LEASE

 

COUNTY OF BERKELEY COUNTY

 

THIS MEMORANDUM OF LEASE (“Memorandum”) is of that certain Lease Agreement dated December     , 2016, including all Exhibits attached thereto (collectively, “Lease”), by and between DIEC II, LLC, a South Carolina limited liability company (“Lessor”) and Benefitfocus.com, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (“Lessee”).

W I T N E S S E T H:

For good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, Lessor leases to Lessee the demised premises located in Berkeley County, South Carolina, and as more particularity shown on Exhibit A incorporated herein by reference (“Demised Premises”) for a term beginning on the Lease Commencement Date and continuing for a period of fifteen (15) years from such date, unless sooner terminated in accordance with the terms of the Lease. In addition, Lessee has five (5) 1-year periods to extend the term of the Lease. The provisions set forth in said unrecorded Lease, together with all the Exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments entered into by the parties subsequent to this Memorandum between Lessor and Lessee are hereby incorporated into this Memorandum by reference.

Depending on the requirements of the then beneficiary, this Lease and Lessee’s rights under the Lease will either be subordinate or superior to the lien of the mortgage (“Mortgage”) which is a lien against the building in which the Demised Premises are located whether the Mortgage is currently a lien on the Demised Premises or subsequently becomes a lien on the Demised Premises. No further agreements or documents shall be required to render the Lease and/or the Lessee’s rights subordinate or superior to the Mortgage.

This Memorandum is not a complete summary of the Lease, and the provisions contained herein shall not be construed to interpret the terms thereof. In the event of a conflict between this Memorandum and the unrecorded Lease, said Lease shall control. Upon the expiration of the stated Lease term, this Memorandum shall automatically terminate.

 

1


Upon a termination of the Lease, for whatever reason, Lessor shall be entitled to record a notice of that termination on its own signature. Lessor shall be deemed to be Lessee’s attorney-in-fact (which power of attorney shall be irrevocable and coupled with an interest) for purposes of executing and recording that termination notice.

(Signature pages follow)


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Lessee has executed this Memorandum as of the          day of                     , 20    .

 

WITNESS:     LESSEE:
    Benefitfocus.com, Inc.,

 

    a South Carolina corporation
    By:   

 

    Name:   

 

 

    Title:   

 

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF BERKELEY

I, the undersigned Notary Public for the State of South Carolina, do hereby certify that the above named Lessee, by and through the above named agent, personally appeared before me this         day of                     , 2016, and acknowledged the due execution of the foregoing instrument.

 

 

Notary Public for South Carolina

 

Notary Printed Name

 

My Commission Expires

 

(Official Seal)   


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Lessor has executed this Memorandum as of the          day of                 , 20    .

 

WITNESS:  

 

   LESSOR:

 

     DIEC II, LLC
       a South Carolina limited liability company
       By:   

 

       Name:   

 

 

     Title:   

 

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF BERKELEY

I, the undersigned Notary Public for South Carolina, do hereby certify that the above named Lessor, by and through the above named agent, personally appeared before me this          day of                     , 2016, and acknowledged the due execution of the foregoing instrument.

 

 

Notary Public for South Carolina

 

Notary Printed Name

 

My Commission Expires

 

(Official Seal)   


EXHIBIT A

Property Description

 

A-1


LEASE ADDENDUM NUMBER TWO

Commencement Date Agreement

This Commencement Date Agreement (this “Agreement”) made this          day of                     , 20        , by and between DIEC II, LLC, a South Carolina limited liability company (“Lessor”) and Benefitfocus.com, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (“Lessee”).

W I T N E S S E T H

WHEREAS, on December    , 2016, Lessor and Lessee entered into a Lease Agreement (the “Lease”) regarding the Property commonly known as the Daniel Island Executive Center II, located in the City of Charleston, State of South Carolina. Capitalized terms used herein without definition have the meaning specified within the Lease.

WHEREAS, on                     ,         , Lessee accepted delivery of the Demised Premises and therefore, pursuant to Section 1.04 of the Lease, the Lease Term has commenced; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to confirm the Lease Commencement Date and the Expiration Date.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants herein contained, Lessor and Lessee agree as follows:

(1) The Lease Commencement Date is                      , 20        .

(2) The Rent Commencement Date is                      , 20        .

(3) The Expiration Date of the Lease is                      , 20        .

(4) The execution of this Agreement shall not constitute the exercise by Lessee of any option it may have to extend the Lease Term.

(5) The Lease is in full force and effect and is hereby ratified and confirmed.

(The remainder of this page is intentionally left blank. Next page is signature page.)

 

1


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Lessor and Lessee have caused this Agreement to be duly executed on the date first written above.

 

LESSOR: DIEC II, LLC  

 

  ,
a South Carolina limited liability company  
By:  

 

 
Name:  

 

 
Title:  

 

 
LESSEE: Benefitfocus.com, Inc.  

 

 
a South Carolina Corporation  
By:  

 

 
Name:  

 

 
Title:  

 

 


EXHIBIT A

PROPERTY

A copy of the plat has been delivered by Lessor to Lessee on the date of execution of this Lease. A copy of such plat is on file with the Register of Deeds Office for Berkeley County.

 

A-1


EXHIBIT B

PARKING LAYOUT

The parking layout is set forth in the construction drawings of the Demised Premises delivered by Lessor to Lessee on the date of execution of this Lease. A copy of such drawings is on file with the City of Charleston Building Department.

 

B-1


EXHIBIT C

LEASE OPTION

(INTENTIONALLY OMITTED)

 

C-5


EXHIBIT D

THE PROJECT

To be added by amendment to the Lease as plans are finalized and approved by Lessor and Lessee.

 

D-1


EXHIBIT E

(SEE TENANT IMPROVEMENT PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS DATED                     , 2017 to be added by amendment once finalized and approved by Lessor and Lessee)

 

E-1


EXHIBIT F

(Tenant Improvements)

WORK LETTER

This Exhibit F is attached to and made a part of the Lease dated December        , 2016, by and between DIEC II, LLC, a South Carolina limited liability company (“Lessor”) and Benefitfocus.com, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (“Lessee”) for the Property commonly known as the Daniel Island Executive Center II, located in the City of Charleston, State of South Carolina. Capitalized terms set out herein shall have the same meaning as set out in the Lease, unless otherwise defined herein.

This Exhibit F is subject to all Provisions set forth in Section 2.03 of the Lease.

1. This Work Letter shall set forth the obligations of Lessor and Lessee with respect to the preparation of the Demised Premises for Lessee’s occupancy. All improvements described in this Work Letter to be constructed in and upon the Demised Premises by Lessor are hereinafter referred to as the “Tenant Improvements.” It is agreed that construction of the Tenant Improvements will be completed at Lessee’s sole cost and expense, subject to the Allowance (as defined below). Lessor shall enter into a direct contract for the Tenant Improvements with a general contractor selected by Lessor. In addition, Lessee shall have the right to select and/or approve of any subcontractors used in connection with the Tenant Improvements.

2. Lessee shall be solely responsible for the timely preparation and submission to Lessor of the final architectural, electrical and mechanical construction drawings, plans and specifications (called “Plans”) necessary to construct the Tenant Improvements, which Plans shall be subject to approval by Lessor and Lessor’s architect and engineers and shall comply with their requirements to avoid aesthetic or other conflicts with the design and function of the balance of the Building. Lessee shall be responsible for all elements of the design of Plans (including, without limitation, compliance with law, functionality of design, the structural integrity of the design, the configuration of the premises and the placement of Lessee’s furniture, appliances and equipment), and Lessor’s approval of Plans shall in no event relieve Lessee of the responsibility for such design. If requested by Lessee, Lessor’s architect will prepare the Plans necessary for such construction at Lessee’s cost. Whether or not the layout and Plans are prepared with the help (in whole or in part) of Lessor’s architect, Lessee agrees to remain solely responsible for the timely preparation and submission of the Plans and for all elements of the design of such Plans and for all costs related thereto. Lessee will deliver the initial Plans, approved by Lessee, to Lessor. Lessee has assured itself by direct communication with the architect and engineers (Lessor’s or its own, as the case may be) that the final approved Plans can be delivered to Lessor on or before the Plans Due Date as defined in Section 2.02 herein, provided that Lessee promptly furnishes complete information concerning its requirements to said architect and engineers as

 

F-1


and when requested by them. Lessee covenants and agrees to cause said final, approved Plans to be delivered to Lessor on or before said Plans Due Date and to devote such time as may be necessary in consultation with said architect and engineers to enable them to complete and submit the Plans within the required time limit. Time is of the essence in respect to preparation and submission of Plans by Lessee. In the event the Plans are not fully completed and delivered by the Plans Due Date, Lessee shall be responsible for one (1) day of delay for each day during the period beginning on the day following the Plans Due Date and ending on the date completed Plans are delivered. In the event such delay results in higher minimum costs of construction and/or higher actual construction costs which exceed the Allowance, such increased estimate or cost shall be deemed Excess Costs and Lessee shall pay such Excess Costs, plus any applicable state sales or use tax thereon, within ten (10) days after demand for such sums. (The word “architect” as used in this Exhibit B shall include an interior designer or space planner.)

3. Lessor, prior to commencing any construction of Tenant Improvements, shall submit to Lessee a written estimate setting forth the anticipated cost of the Tenant Improvements, including but not limited to labor and materials, contractor’s fees and permit fees. Within five (5) Business Days thereafter, Lessee shall either notify Lessor in writing of its approval of the cost estimate, or specify its objections thereto and any desired changes to the proposed Tenant Improvements. In the event Lessee notifies Lessor of such objections and desired changes, Lessee shall work with Lessor to reach a mutually acceptable alternative cost estimate.

4. Lessee shall pay to Lessor all Excess Costs, plus any applicable state sales or use tax thereon, within ten (10) days after demand for such sums. The statements of costs submitted to Lessor by Lessor’s contractors shall be conclusive for purposes of determining the actual cost of the items described therein. The amounts payable by Lessee hereunder constitute Additional Rent payable pursuant to the Lease, and the failure to timely pay same constitutes an event of default under the Lease.

5. If Lessee shall request any change, addition or alteration in any of the Plans after approval by Lessor, Lessor shall have such revisions to the drawings prepared, and Lessee shall reimburse Lessor for the cost thereof, plus any applicable state sales or use tax thereon, upon demand. Promptly upon completion of the revisions, Lessor shall notify Lessee in writing of the increased cost which will be chargeable to Lessee by reason of such change, addition or deletion. Lessee, within one (1) Business Day, shall notify Lessor in writing whether it desires to proceed with such change, addition or deletion. In the absence of such written authorization, Lessor shall have the option to continue work on the Premises disregarding the requested change, addition or alteration, or Lessor may elect to discontinue work on the Premises until it receives notice of Lessee’s decision, in which event Lessee shall be responsible for any delay in completion of the Premises resulting therefrom. In the event such revisions result in a higher estimate of the cost of construction and/or higher actual construction costs which exceed the Allowance, such increased estimate or costs shall be deemed Excess Costs pursuant to Paragraph 4 hereof and Lessee shall pay such Excess Costs, plus any applicable state sales or use tax thereon, within ten (10) days after demand for such sums.

 

F-2


6. Following approval of the Plans and the payment by Lessee of the required portion of the Excess Costs, if any, Lessor shall cause the Tenant Improvements to be constructed substantially in accordance with the approved Plans. Lessor shall notify Lessee of Substantial Completion of the Tenant Improvements.

7. Lessor, provided Lessee is not in default, agrees to provide Lessee with an allowance (the “Allowance”) in an amount not to exceed Forty-Five Dollars and NO/100 ($45.00) per square foot of Rentable Area to be applied toward the cost of the Tenant Improvements in the Premises. In the event the Allowance shall not be sufficient to complete the Tenant Improvements, Lessee shall pay the Excess Costs, plus any applicable state sales or use tax thereon, as prescribed in paragraph 4 above. In the event the Allowance exceeds the cost of Tenant Improvements, any remaining Allowance shall accrue to the sole benefit of Lessor, it being agreed that Lessee shall not be entitled to any credit, offset, abatement or payment with respect thereto. Lessor shall be entitled to deduct from the Allowance a construction management fee for Lessor’s oversight of the Tenant Improvements in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the total cost of the Tenant Improvements.

 

F-3


EXHIBIT G

DIEC II

Estimated Real Estate Taxes, Operating Expenses, and Insurance and Common

Area Maintenance Expenses

DIEC II

2019 Estimated CAM and Operating Expenses/sq. foot

 

Real Estate Taxes & DI Association Fees

   $ 2.00   

Insurance Expense

   $ .73   

Electrical Expense

   $ 1.40   

Elevator Phone Expense (To be provided by Lessee Phone System)

   $ 0.00   

Water System Expense

   $ 0.15   

Fire Monitor

   $ 0.01   

Prop Mgmt Expense (Estimated 2% on gross collections)

   $ 0.51   

Janitorial (Paid by Lessee)

   $ .00   

Landscape Expense

   $ 0.15   

Bldg Upkeep/ Maintenance

   $ 0.10   
  

 

 

 

Total Estimated Expenses:

   $ 5.05   
  

 

 

 

Actual Expenses above any amounts per category above will be billed to the Lessee annually.

 

G-1


EXHIBIT H

RULES AND REGULATIONS

DANIEL ISLAND EXECUTIVE CENTER II

RULES AND REGULATIONS

 

1) The sidewalks, and public portions of the Property, such as entrances, passages, courts, vestibules, stairways, corridors or halls, and the parking areas, streets, alleys or ways surrounding or in the vicinity of the Property shall not be obstructed, even temporarily, or encumbered by Lessee.

 

2) No curtains, blinds, shades, louvered openings, tinted coating, film or screens shall be attached to or hung in, or used in connection with, any window, glass surface or door of the Demised Premises, without prior written consent of Lessor, unless installed by Lessor.

 

3) Without prior written approval of Lessor, no sign, advertisement, notice or other lettering shall be exhibited, inscribed, painted or affixed by Lessee on any part of the outside of the Demised Premises or Common Improvements or on corridor walls or windows or other glass surfaces. In the event of the violation of the foregoing by Lessee, Lessor may remove same, without any liability, and may charge the expense incurred by such removal, to Lessee. The care and maintenance of any such approved signs shall be the sole responsibility of Lessee.

 

4) No showcases or other articles shall be put in front of or affixed to any part of the exterior of the Demised Premises or the Property.

 

5) The water and wash closets and other plumbing fixtures shall not be used for any purposes other than those for which they were constructed, and no sweepings, rubbish, rags, or other substances shall be thrown therein. All damages resulting from any misuse of the fixtures shall be borne by Lessee.

 

6) Lessee shall not in any way deface any part of the Demised Premises or the Property.

 

7) No bicycles, vehicles, or animals of any kind shall be brought into or kept in or about the Demised Premises. No cooking shall be done or permitted by Lessee on the Demised Premises except in conformity to law and then only in the utility kitchen, if any, as set forth in Lessee’s layout, which is to be primarily used by Lessee’s employees for heating beverages and light snacks. Lessee shall not cause or permit any unusual or objectionable odors to be produced upon or permeate from the Demised Premises.

 

H-1


8) Neither Lessee, nor any of Lessee’s employees, agents, visitors, or licensees, shall at any time bring or keep upon the Demised Premises any flammable, combustible, or explosive fluid, or chemical substance, other than reasonable amounts of cleaning fluids or solvents required in the normal operation of Lessee’s business offices.

 

9) No additional locks or bolts of any kind shall be placed upon any of the doors or windows by Lessee, nor shall any changes be made in existing locks or the mechanism thereof, without the prior written approval of Lessor and unless and until a duplicate key is delivered to Lessor. Lessee shall, upon the termination of its tenancy, restore to Lessor all keys of stores, offices and toilet rooms, either furnished to, or otherwise procured by, Lessee, and in the event of the loss of any keys so furnished, Lessee shall pay to Lessor the cost thereof.

 

10) Lessor shall have the right to prohibit advertising by Lessee which, in Lessor’s reasonable judgment, tends to impair the reputation of the Property or its desirability as a center for offices and warehouses, and upon written notice from Lessor, Lessee shall refrain from or discontinue such advertising.

 

11) All paneling, rounds, or other wood products not considered furniture shall be of fire retardant materials. Before installation of any such materials, certification of the materials’ fire retardant characteristics shall be submitted to Lessor or its agents, in a manner satisfactory to Lessor.

 

12) Lessor may waive any one or more of these Rules and Regulations for the benefit of any particular tenant or tenants, but no such waiver by Lessor shall be construed as a waiver of such Rules and Regulations in favor of any other tenant or tenants, nor prevent Lessee from thereafter enforcing any such Rules and Regulations against any or all of the tenants of the Property. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessor hereby agrees to equitably enforce the observation and performance of the Rules and Regulations for the best interest of the Property as a whole.

 

13) These rules and Regulations are in addition to, and shall not be construed to in any way modify or amend, in whole part, the terms, covenants, agreements and conditions of the main text (including Special Provisions) of the Lease Agreement, which text shall control except as to any attempted waiver of any of these Rules and Regulations in the instance of conflict.

 

14) Lessor reserves the right to make such other and reasonable rules and regulations as in its judgment may from time to time be needed for safety, care, and cleanliness of the project, and for the preservation of good order therein. Such other Rules and Regulations shall be effective upon written notification to Lessee.

 

15) All garbage and refuse containers shall be placed in approved designated area.

 

H-2


16) Parking Lot Code of Conduct

 

  a) Parking Spaces. Licensed automobiles, SUV’s, pickup trucks, and motorcycles must park within one stripped parking space at a time. Negligently using more than one space or parking in unauthorized areas—driveways, sidewalks, landscaped areas, is strictly forbidden and subject to towing at owner’s expense without warning.

 

  b) Handicapped Parking. Handicapped Parking Areas are clearly marked and are to be used solely by vehicles displaying the designated handicapped license tag obtained from the appropriate State Department of Motor Vehicles or a hang tag/sticker designating handicap access issued by the City of Charleston. Any unauthorized vehicles found in this area are subject to towing at owner’s expense without warning.

 

  c) Oversized Vehicles. City of Charleston Parking Ordinances defines an oversized vehicle as any vehicles exceeding 85 inches in height or 250 inches in length or weighing more than 2 tons. These vehicles are to be safely parked away from the parking spaces closest to office entrances of the buildings. They should be stopped or parked for such length of time as may be necessary for the pick-up and loading or unloading and delivery of passengers or materials.

 

  d) Loitering. The parking lot is designed to serve our Tenants and their visitors with a convenient and close place to park relative to an office entrance. Please advise your visitors that it is not to serve as a place to hang out and subsist. The playing of loud music from car radios and/or other devices is disruptive and will not be tolerated. The dumping of trash, tobacco products and refuse in our parking lots and on our grounds is absolutely forbidden as well as unauthorized use of our Tenant’s restroom facilities.

 

  e) Automotive Repairs. Automotive maintenance and/or repair is not to be performed in the parking lot.

 

  f) Vandalism. Tenants and their guests are asked to be vigilant relative to witnessing any perpetrator’s damaging of people’s property. Please report any acts immediately to this office during normal business hours (8:30 – 5:30) or call the Charleston Police after hours.

 

  g) Speed Limit. Unless otherwise noted, maximum speed limit allowed in the parking lot is restricted to 15 MPH.

 

  h) Unattended Vehicles. Vehicles abandoned or left overnight without the express written permission of property management will be towed at owner’s expense without warning. Vehicles displaying “For Sale” signage is absolutely forbidden and will be towed without warning.

 

H-3


EXHIBIT I

RENEWAL OPTION

1. Option to Extend. Lessee shall have the right and option (a “Renewal Option”) to renew the Lease (the “Renewal Option”) for five additional one year options (each a “Renewal Lease Term”); provided, however, such Renewal Option is contingent upon the following (i) Lessee is not in default at the time Lessee gives Lessor notice of Lessee’s intention to exercise the Renewal Option; (ii) upon the Expiration Date, Lessee has no outstanding default; (iii) no event has occurred that upon notice or the passage of time would constitute a default; (iv) Lessee is not disqualified by multiple defaults as provided in the Lease. Following the expiration of the Renewal Lease Term, Lessee shall have no further right to renew the Lease pursuant to this Exhibit I.

2. Exercise of Option. Lessee shall exercise the Renewal Option by giving Lessor notice at least 365 days prior to the Expiration Date or the last day of any Renewal Lease Term. If Lessee fails to give such notice to Lessor prior to said 365 day period, then Lessee shall forfeit the Renewal Option. If Lessee exercises the Renewal Option, then during any such Renewal Lease Term, Lessor and Lessee’s respective rights, duties and obligations shall be governed by the terms and conditions of the Lease. Time is of the essence in exercising the Renewal Option.

3. Term. If Lessee exercises the Renewal Option, then during any such Renewal Lease Term, all references to the term “Term”, as used in the Lease, shall mean the “Renewal Lease Term”.

4. Termination of Renewal Option on Transfer by Lessee. In the event Lessor consents to an assignment or sublease by Lessee, then the Renewal Option shall automatically terminate unless Lessee agrees in writing to remain liable for any and all terms of the Lease during the Renewal Lease Term, or otherwise agreed in writing by Lessor.

5. Rent for Renewal Lease Term. Rent for the Renewal Term shall be as set forth in Section 3.01 (b) of the Lease Agreement.

 

I-1

EX-10.32

Exhibit 10.32

EXECUTION COPY

FIFTH AMENDMENT AGREEMENT

This Fifth Amendment Agreement (this Amendment”) is entered into this 12th day of December, 2016, by and among BENEFITFOCUS, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “Parent”), BENEFITFOCUS.COM, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“Benefitfocus.com”), and BENEFITSTORE, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“BenefitStore”, and together with the Parent and Benefitfocus.com, each individually, a “Borrower”, and collectively, the “Borrowers”), the several banks and other financial institutions or entities party hereto (each a “Lender” and, collectively, the “Lenders”), and SILICON VALLEY BANK, as administrative agent and collateral agent for the Lenders (in such capacity, the “Administrative Agent”).

RECITALS

A. The Borrowers, the Lenders and the Administrative Agent have entered into that certain Credit Agreement dated as of February 20, 2015, as amended pursuant to that certain First Amendment Agreement dated June 16, 2015, pursuant to that certain Second Amendment Agreement dated December 18, 2015, pursuant to that certain Third Amendment Agreement dated March 24, 2016, and pursuant to that certain Fourth Amendment Agreement dated October 28, 2016 (as amended and as the same may from time to time be further amended, modified, supplemented or restated, the “Credit Agreement”), pursuant to which the Lenders have extended credit to the Borrowers for the purposes permitted in the Credit Agreement.

B. The Borrowers have requested and the Required Lenders and the Administrative Agent agree to modify and amend certain terms and conditions of the Credit Agreement.

AGREEMENT

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing recitals and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which is hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Definitions. Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Amendment shall have the meanings given to them in the Credit Agreement.

2. Amendments to Credit Agreement.

2.1 Section 7.2 (Indebtedness). Section 7.2(k) of the Credit Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as follows:

“(k) to the extent constituting Indebtedness, building lease obligations, whether or not reflected on the balance sheet of the Borrowers, provided that the aggregate outstanding amount of such obligations does not exceed $180,000,000; and”

3. Conditions Precedent to Effectiveness. This Amendment shall not be effective until each of the following conditions precedent have been fulfilled to the satisfaction of (and in form and substance satisfactory to, as applicable) the Administrative Agent (such date, the “Fifth Amendment Effective Date”):


3.1 This Amendment shall have been duly executed and delivered by the respective parties hereto. The Administrative Agent shall have received a fully executed copy hereof.

3.2 All necessary consents and approvals to this Amendment shall have been obtained by the Loan Parties.

3.3 After giving effect to this Amendment, each of the representations and warranties herein and in the Credit Agreement and the other Loan Documents (i) that is qualified by materiality shall be true and correct, and (ii) that is not qualified by materiality, shall be true and correct in all material respects, in each case, on and as of the Fifth Amendment Effective Date as if made on and as of such date, except to the extent any such representation and warranty expressly relates to an earlier date, in which case such representation and warranty shall have been true and correct in all material respects as of such earlier date.

For purposes of determining compliance with the conditions specified in this Section 4, each Lender that has executed this Amendment shall be deemed to have consented to, approved or accepted or to be satisfied with, each document or other matter either sent (or made available) by the Administrative Agent to such Lender for consent, approval, acceptance or satisfaction, or required thereunder to be consented to or approved by or acceptable or satisfactory to such Lender, unless an officer of the Administrative Agent responsible for the transactions contemplated by the Loan Documents shall have received notice from such Lender prior to the Fifth Amendment Effective Date specifying such Lender’s objection thereto and such objection shall not have been withdrawn by notice to the Administrative Agent to that effect on or prior to the Fifth Amendment Effective Date.

4. Limitation of Amendment.

4.1 The amendments set forth in Section 2, above, are effective for the purposes set forth herein and shall be limited precisely as written and shall not be deemed to (a) be a consent to any amendment, waiver or modification of any other term or condition of any Loan Document, or (b) otherwise prejudice any right or remedy which the Administrative Agent or the Lenders may now have or may have in the future under or in connection with any Loan Document.

4.2 This Amendment shall be construed in connection with and as part of the Loan Documents and all terms, conditions, representations, warranties, covenants and agreements set forth in the Loan Documents, except as herein amended, are hereby ratified and confirmed and shall remain in full force and effect.


5. Representations and Warranties. To induce the Administrative Agent and the Required Lenders to enter into this Amendment, the Borrowers hereby represent and warrant as follows:

5.1 Immediately after giving effect to this Amendment (a) the representations and warranties contained in the Loan Documents are true, accurate and complete in all material respects as of the date hereof (except to the extent such representations and warranties relate to an earlier date, in which case they are true and correct as of such date), and (b) no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing;

5.2 Each Borrower has the power and authority to execute and deliver this Amendment and to perform its obligations under the Credit Agreement, as amended by this Amendment;

5.3 The execution and delivery by each Borrower of this Amendment and the performance by such Borrower of its obligations under the Credit Agreement, as amended by this Amendment, have been duly authorized;

5.4 The execution and delivery by each Borrower of this Amendment and the performance by each Borrower of its obligations under the Credit Agreement, as amended by this Amendment, do not and will not contravene (a) any law or regulation binding on or affecting such Borrower, (b) any contractual restriction with a Person binding on such Borrower, (c) any order, judgment or decree of any court or other governmental or public body or authority, or subdivision thereof, binding on such Borrower, or (d) the organizational documents of such Borrower;

5.5 The execution and delivery by each Borrower of this Amendment and the performance by such Borrower of its obligations under the Credit Agreement, as amended by this Amendment, do not require any order, consent, approval, license, authorization or validation of, or filing, recording or registration with, or exemption by any governmental or public body or authority, or subdivision thereof, binding on such Borrower, except as already has been obtained or made; and

5.6 This Amendment has been duly executed and delivered by each Borrower and is the binding obligation of such Borrower, enforceable against such Borrower in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, liquidation, moratorium or other similar laws of general application and equitable principles relating to or affecting creditors’ rights.

6. No Defenses of Borrowers. Each Borrower hereby acknowledges and agrees that such Borrower has no offsets, defenses, claims, or counterclaims against the Administrative Agent or any Lender with respect to the Obligations, or otherwise, and that if such Borrower now has, or ever did have, any offsets, defenses, claims, or counterclaims against the Administrative Agent or any Lender, whether known or unknown, at law or in equity, all of them are hereby expressly WAIVED and such Borrower hereby RELEASES the Administrative Agent and each Lender from any liability thereunder.


7. Integration. This Amendment and the Loan Documents represent the entire agreement about this subject matter and supersede prior negotiations or agreements. All prior agreements, understandings, representations, warranties, and negotiations between the parties about the subject matter of this Amendment and the Loan Documents merge into this Amendment and the Loan Documents.

8. Counterparts. This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts and all of such counterparts taken together shall be deemed to constitute one and the same instrument.

9. Effect on Loan Documents.

9.1 The amendments set forth herein shall be limited precisely as written and shall not be deemed (a) to be a forbearance, waiver, or modification of any other term or condition of the Credit Agreement or of any Loan Documents or to prejudice any right or remedy which the Administrative Agent may now have or may have in the future under or in connection with the Loan Documents; (b) to be a consent to any future consent or modification, forbearance, or waiver to the Credit Agreement or any other Loan Document, or to any waiver of any of the provisions thereof; or (c) to limit or impair the Administrative Agent’s right to demand strict performance of all terms and covenants as of any date. The Borrowers, on behalf of each Loan Party, hereby ratify and reaffirm the Borrowers’ obligations under the Credit Agreement and each Loan Party’s obligations under each other Loan Document to which it is a party and agrees that none of the amendments or modifications to the Credit Agreement set forth in this Amendment shall impair any Loan Party’s obligations under the Loan Documents or the Administrative Agent’s rights under the Loan Documents. The Borrowers, on behalf of each Loan Party, hereby further ratify and reaffirm the validity and enforceability of all of the Liens heretofore granted, pursuant to and in connection with the Guarantee and Collateral Agreement or any other Loan Document to the Administrative Agent on behalf and for the benefit of the Secured Parties, as collateral security for the obligations under the Loan Documents, in accordance with their respective terms, and acknowledges that all of such Liens, and all collateral heretofore pledged as security for such obligations, continues to be and remain collateral for such obligations (as amended and increased hereby) from and after the date hereof. The Borrowers, on behalf of each Loan Party, acknowledge and agree that the Credit Agreement and each other Loan Document is still in full force and effect and acknowledge as of the date hereof that no Loan Party has any defenses to enforcement of the Loan Documents. The Borrowers, on behalf of each Loan Party, waive any and all defenses to enforcement of the Credit Agreement as amended hereby and each other Loan Documents that might otherwise be available as a result of this Amendment of the Credit Agreement. To the extent any terms or provisions of this Amendment conflict with those of the Credit Agreement or other Loan Documents, the terms and provisions of this Amendment shall control.


9.2 To the extent that any terms and conditions in any of the Loan Documents shall contradict or be in conflict with any terms or conditions of the Credit Agreement, after giving effect to this Amendment, such terms and conditions are hereby deemed modified or amended accordingly to reflect the terms and conditions of the Credit Agreement as modified or amended hereby.

9.3 This Amendment is a Loan Document.

10. Severability. The provisions of this Amendment are severable, and if any clause or provision shall be held invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part in any jurisdiction, then such invalidity or unenforceability shall affect only such clause or provision, or part thereof, in such jurisdiction and shall not in any manner affect such clause or provision in any other jurisdiction, or any other clause or provision in this Amendment in any jurisdiction.

11. Choice of Law. Section 10.13 and Section 10.14 of the Credit Agreement are hereby incorporated by reference in their entity mutatis mutandis.

[Signature page follows.]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be duly executed and delivered as of the date first written above.

BORROWERS:

 

BENEFITFOCUS.COM, INC.
By  

/s/ Jeffrey M. Laborde

Name:   Jeffrey M. Laborde
Title:   CFO
BENEFITFOCUS, INC.
By  

/s/ Jeffrey M. Laborde

Name:   Jeffrey M. Laborde
Title:   CFO

 

BENEFITSTORE, INC.
By  

/s/ Jeffrey M. Laborde

Name:   Jeffrey M. Laborde
Title:   CFO
 

 

Signature Page to Fifth Amendment


SILICON VALLEY BANK, as Administrative Agent and as a Lender

 

By  

/s/ Steve Lyons

Name:

 

Steve Lyons

Title:

 

VP

Signature Page to Fifth Amendment


COMERICA BANK, as a Lender

By  

/s/ John Benetti

Name:

 

John Benetti

Title:

 

SVP

Signature Page to Fifth Amendment


PACIFIC WESTERN BANK, as a Lender

By  

/s/ Adam Glick

Name:

 

Adam Glick

Title:

 

Senior Vice President

Signature Page to Fifth Amendment


GOLDMAN SACHS LENDING PARTNERS LLC, as a Lender

By  

/s/ Ushma Dedhiya

Name:

 

Ushma Dedhiya

Title:

 

Authorized Signatory

Signature Page to Fifth Amendment