Moving between or opening business premises can be stressful as there are so many things to think about. Many small businesses and start-ups look at a licence or lease space rather than purchasing business premises outright, but the considerations are broadly the same for both options. It is useful to set up organise a new premises checklist.

After deciding whether to buy or rent, think about the points below in a new premises checklist so that you know exactly what you’re seeking, it will save you time and effort.

• What type of premises you are looking for? Is it a garage, a showroom with private offices attached, a lock-up or a warehouse with additional office space?

• Where do you need to position yourself and where are your competitors?

• What size premises do you require?

• Is the layout of the floor space practical?

• What image do you want to present? For example, hi-tech based in an old fashioned building delivers a mixed message – unless, of course, you are all about contrasts.

• Is your business on a good transport route, including public transport links, with clear directions to it for the staff and customers benefit?

• Do you need parking for staff and customers, or just staff?

• How many parking spaces are needed to allow for expansion?

• Are they included or will they be an additional cost?

• Are there potentially off-putting businesses, smells or waste nearby?

• Does the space meet health and safety requirements?

• What will the insurance costs be for the premises?

• Is there on site security and is it at an additional charge?

• If you are renting, are you looking for a lower cost non-renewable license that lasts for up to two years or for a longer lease?

• What is included in a lease or license fee (rental) agreement and which services are charged as extra? For instance, landscaping, business telephone lines, internet connectivity, electricity, water and the use and maintenance of communal areas if the building houses several different enterprises.

• Are you permitted to alter anything on site? It is normally limited in rental agreements so check the small print on the contract before you sign.

• Do you need planning permission? When purchasing premises planning permission is not usually required for “reasonable adjustments” like interior renovation, but if you are unsure whether your kind of operation might raise planning issues, it’s wholly recommended that checks with your local authority’s planning department are made.

• Buying or renting, your landlord or property seller is legally bound to provide an Energy Performance Certificate (E.P.C.) so that energy efficiency and costs can be estimated.

We hope that this has helped to focus your mind on exact requirements and remember that to help your bottom line, whether in new premises or for relocation, try to stick to size and budget needs, rather than wants. That said, it is better to have a slightly bigger premises than you think you need at this point to allow for expansion, even if it’s a few more desks, or storage space.

Good luck finding your ideal new premises!

If you need assistance moving offices, we can help to ensure that your move runs smoothly by assisting with your communications and IT equipment. We can also make sure that you keep your current numbers for business continuity, even if you are moving out of your current area. Contact us for further information.