When the time to sign a commercial lease comes, it’s not unusual for some landlords to present a standard lease and claim that everyone signs it. Woe unto you if you sign such a lease without thorough scrutiny. If you are looking forward to signing your first commercial lease, there are a lot more aspects to put into consideration besides the location, square footage, and rent amount. Here are the top 8 things to consider when looking for commercial office space:
1. Security and Safety
You sure want your business to run in a secure and safe environment to guarantee the safety of your assets and that of your employees and clients. Besides ensuring that the crime rate in the area is next to zero, it’s important to discuss with the landlord about the measures he has put in place to enhance safety and security.
2. Building Accessibility
It’s important to ensure that the building is easily accessible by subway or bus to ensure your staff and clients get there with ease. Furthermore, you should ensure that there’s ample parking for employees and guests.
3. Office Accessibility
It’s common for most buildings to be closed after normal working hours, limiting visitors from accessing the offices within them. If your business needs to remain open during non-traditional hours, it’s best that you talk to the landlord about it to ensure that your staff and clients won’t be denied access.
4. Competitor Presence
Before moving into a new building, it’s important to check whether there are other businesses nearby that are similar to your business. Renting too close to your competitors wouldn’t be a wise move.
5. The Work Environment
The type of working environment has an impact on your staff’s drive, mood, performance and productivity. Ensure that your office has plenty and big enough windows to allow plenty of light. Also ensure that the environment is quiet and unpolluted. Additionally, ensure that the ambience is just right so you can create a good impression with your guests.
6. Proximity to Amenities
To ensure that your employees strike a healthy balance between work and life, it’s important that you ensure that they get access to crucial services even when at work. Ensure that the office is in close proximity to vital service providers such as dry cleaners, restaurants, grocery stores, medical offices, drug stores, etc.
7. Technology Compatibility
At a time when we are relying on technology to carryout most of the tasks, it’s imperative to ensure that a building has technology compatibility. Ensure that measures have been put in place to support use of smart gadgets, i.e. availability of sufficient power outlets and internet connections.
8. Eco-friendly Features
There are many benefits that come along with renting in a LEED certified building. These types of buildings uphold green standards, meaning that they are friendly to the environment. Besides boosting productivity as there are reduced number of sick days, green buildings also help save on energy.
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