Many entrepreneurs face the same problem of finding the right commercial space once their business is up and running. It's important to focus on finding a place that meets your highest priorities. When you go to check out your options, be sure to bring along a notebook, pen, pocket calculator, measuring tape, and, if possible, a Dictaphone and a digital camera.
Here are a few pointers on what to look for when looking for your perfect commercial property.
- Good security. After all, your livelihood is going to be running inside these walls. Will your business be a target for burglars? What's the area/neighborhood like? Does the landlord employee any security guards? How good are the locks or alarm systems? Will it be a safe building for you or your employees to be working late at? Are there security cameras? Is there enough light in the parking lot in the evening? These are important questions to ask. Not only are you looking out for your business's safety, but you'll also be looking out for your own safety and the safety of your employees.
- Heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. Coming into a freezing office in the dead of winter is horrible. Walking into an oven during the summer isn't fun, either. It's important to make sure the space you'll be occupying has properly-working HVAC systems. Will you be able to control the temperature? And will you be allowed to keep the air conditioning or heating running during off-hours, if your business needs it to? (Example: computers would need to be in a cool environment during hot summer months.)
- Outward appearance. If your business is the type to have customers coming and going, outward appearance is crucial. Even if you plan to take meetings in your commercial space, you should find a space that's clean and attractive. If it looks shabby to you, it will look shabby to everyone else.
- Defects. Look for apparent problems, such as missing floor tiles, lots of nail holes in the walls, loose steps, torn carpet, stains anywhere, broken light fixtures, etc. Maybe these imperfections won't bother you, but if they will, check for them immediately. You don't want to move in and then suddenly start seeing problems everywhere. If you don't mind flaws such as these, be sure to check for bigger problems, like a leaky roof. Chances are, if the carpet, tiles, fixtures, etc. are in rough shape, other areas could be too - areas that are more expensive to repair. Assuming that the space has some possibilities for you, try to evaluate how difficult (and expensive) it will be to fix any problems.
- Access and convenience. Are there elevators nearby? How about bathrooms? Is there a good place to have a big meeting? What about vending machines or a cafeteria? A good idea is to make a list of the things you'll definitely want to have (on-site parking, storage units, a wheelchair ramp, etc.) and ask for it when you're checking out the space.
These are just a few of the things you'll need to ask about. There are many other considerations, such as zoning compliances, licenses, permits, and who pays for office improvements. Make sure you're allowed to have your business where you're looking. If necessary, consult with a professional who can make sure you don't miss anything. Careful, documented visits to perspective sites will prove extremely helpful.
To get a free quote on commercial property insurance today, contact CounterPoint Insurance! We're an independent insurance agency based in Bedford, New Hampshire.
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