Preparing your property for business

Getting your commercial property ready for business

Congratulations on securing your commercial property! Whether it’s your first foray into business ownership or a move to a new location, preparing your space is crucial to creating a successful, functional, and attractive environment. The right fit-out and renovation can make a big difference in the way customers perceive your business and how comfortable your staff feels working there. Not to mention, a well-thought-out space can enhance productivity and give your business that professional edge.

As the UK’s largest small-business landlord, we’ve helped thousands of businesses create their ideal spaces, and we’re here to help you do the same. From layout design to compliance checks, this blog post will guide you through everything you need to know to prepare your commercial property for business.

What you need to know about commercial property refurbishment

When it comes to preparing your commercial property, whether it’s an office, retail space, or industrial unit, there are five key considerations that will set you up for success:

1. Check your legals are in order: Before you start any work, ensure your lease is clear and all necessary planning permissions are in place. This will avoid any unexpected legal roadblocks down the line and help you understand your responsibilities as a tenant.
2. Create a project plan: A detailed project plan is essential to keep your refurbishment on track. Map out the entire renovation process, from design to completion, to ensure a smooth workflow and prevent any potential delays.
3. Have a realistic budget: Setting a budget is one of the most important steps. Include estimates for materials, labour, and unexpected costs. A realistic budget should account for unforeseen expenses—allowing a buffer of 10–15% can help ensure you’re prepared.
4. Set clear goals: Define the end vision for your fit-out. Whether it's improving employee productivity, creating a welcoming customer space, or increasing efficiency in an industrial setting, having clear goals will guide all your design and renovation decisions.
5. Consider refurbishment as an investment: A well-done fit-out isn't just an upfront cost, it’s an investment in your business’s future. The right space enhances your brand, attracts customers, and improves employee satisfaction, offering long-term value beyond initial expenses.

Why it’s worth investing in your business premises

Investing in your commercial property goes beyond improving aesthetics - it’s about creating a space that supports your business’s growth and enhances both customer and employee satisfaction. A well-maintained and thoughtfully designed property can boost your brand, increase productivity, and improve efficiency.

Here are the key areas to focus on:

• Interiors: A well-designed interior boosts productivity and creates a welcoming environment for customers, enhancing the overall experience.
• Exteriors: The exterior is the first impression people will have of your business - an appealing, well-maintained façade draws in customers and strengthens your brand image.
• Flooring: Durable, high-quality flooring reduces maintenance costs and provides a professional look.
• Systems and Utilities: Modern, efficient systems reduce costs in the long run and ensure smooth operations.
• Functionality and Appearance: A space that meets your business needs while also looking appealing is crucial for both employees and customers.

Investing in these areas not only improves your day-to-day operations but also offers long-term value for your business.

Start with your commercial premises refurb ‘why’

Just like starting a business, preparing your commercial property begins with defining your ‘why’. Why are you refurbishing your space? What do you hope to achieve? Whether you’re opening a food or beverage business, setting up an office, or running an industrial unit, understanding the purpose behind your refurbishment will guide every decision you make.

For a café or retail space, the focus should be on creating an inviting environment that attracts customers and encourages them to return. For offices, it’s about creating a functional, productive workspace that supports your team and enhances collaboration. For industrial units, the key is to optimise efficiency - creating an organised, practical layout that supports operations and streamlines workflows.It’s also crucial to remember about any health and safety considerations for your business.

As important as the ‘why’ is the ‘who’. Consider who will use the space. Whether it’s customers, employees, or both, understanding their needs will ensure your fit-out serves its purpose and sets your business up for long-term success.

Key considerations before beginning your fit-out

Once you’ve defined your why, it’s time to turn your vision into a reality. There are a few essential steps to take before you start your fit-out to ensure everything goes smoothly:

1. Set a clear goal and vision
   
   Understanding your specific business needs is the first step. What do you want from the space, and how will it support your goals? Whether it's boosting productivity, improving customer experience, or streamlining your operations, having a clear vision will guide your decisions throughout the fit-out process.
   
   
2. Create a Realistic Budget
   
   A well-defined budget is crucial. Be sure to account for not just the core renovation costs but also unexpected expenses such as design changes, materials, and hidden issues that may arise during construction. It's always smart to allocate an additional 10–15% to cover unforeseen costs. Flexibility within your budget will help keep the project on track and reduce stress as you go.
   
   
3. Compliance and Regulations
   
   Every commercial property fit-out must meet local building regulations, health and safety standards, and other legal requirements. Whether it’s accessibility requirements or environmental controls, staying informed will prevent costly delays. Check if you need planning permission, and consult with professionals to ensure your fit-out complies with the necessary standards.
   
   
4. Timeline and Disruption Management
   
   Set realistic deadlines for the project and ensure the work is done in a way that minimises disruption to your business. Think about the best time to begin your renovation - weekends or during quieter periods might be ideal. If you need to continue operating during the fit-out, plan for phased work to ensure the business can still function smoothly.
   

By addressing these key considerations, you’ll be better prepared to manage the logistics, costs, and potential hurdles that can arise during your commercial fit-out. If you’re still searching for the right space, take a look at our guide on how to choose the right commercial property or browse our available commercial spaces to find the perfect fit for your business.

Now you're ready to start preparing your commercial property to be open for business!

With careful planning and the right steps, you’re now ready to transform your commercial property into a space that supports your business’s growth and success. Whether it’s through thoughtful design, a clear budget, or adapting to the unique characteristics of your space, these early steps will lay the foundation for a successful fit-out.

At The Arch Company, we want to help you make the most of your space, just as we’ve guided thousands of tenants in transforming their unique properties into functional, thriving businesses. Speak with your property manager to discuss your plans, and consult our customer handbook for guidance on what’s possible.

If you’re unfamiliar with the leasing process, check out our guide on what to know about leasing commercial property for helpful insights.

Want to see how other businesses have brought their spaces to life? Many of our tenants have transformed their spaces into truly unique environments, from creative cafés to premium gyms. Check out our tenant stories.

Check out our related blog: 12 Reasons to Rent Office Space in Waterloo