There’s nothing more exciting than moving into a new space. For business owners, it’s a sign of huge growth. But before you can contact your relocation company to get you moved into the shiny new facility you’ve selected, there’s one vital step: the walk-through. Many businesses treat this as a final and short formality, speeding through the walk-through and missing vital pieces that can impact them badly in the future.
But that’s not going to be you. With this commercial lease walk-through checklist, you’ll catch anything amiss before the big day. Read on to learn what to check before a commercial relocation, complete with a few extra tips on how to make sure the space is right for your business.
Why a walk-through is vital before a commercial relocation
Inheriting an office, factory, or blank commercial space means inheriting any hidden issues that come with it. While a leasing agent may provide some insight into the property’s condition, conducting your own inspection is crucial.
Doing a thorough walk-through on your own terms lets you scrutinise the condition of the space, confirm compliance with safety regulations, and test essential systems. If you spot any issues, documenting them can prevent future disputes over pre-existing damage.
With that in mind, let’s unpack your commercial lease walk-through checklist item by item.
Your commercial lease walk-through checklist
Inspect the physical condition of the property.
Start by assessing the property’s physical condition. Look for signs of wear and tear that could worsen over time or affect your business. Even if they aren’t an immediate concern, document any damage to prevent future disputes with your landlord.
Keep an eye out for:
- Cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings
Water stains or leaks - Mold, mildew, or dampness
- Condition of doors and windows (check locks, seals, and ease of use)
- State of flooring, carpets, and other coverings
Check safety and compliance.
Every commercial space, including yours, must meet certain safety and compliance standards. The leasing agent and your landlord are generally supposed to check those out as well, but it pays to be careful and look it over from your perspective.
Check for:
- Functioning fire alarms and sprinkler systems
- Clear emergency exits and signage
- Up-to-date building code compliance
- Health and safety certifications
- Security systems (if they’re installed)
Don’t hesitate to address any issues before moving forward—it can save you significant trouble in the long run. As a business moving company that has handled hundreds of commercial relocations over the years, we’ve seen safety and compliance become a commonly thought-about topic.
Spot important repairs and maintenance
Anything that needs to get sorted out before moving in can be spotted in your walk-through if you look carefully. Make a list of your own, categorising any serious repairs. Common maintenance concerns we see a lot include:
- Lighting fixtures and bulbs
- Paint touch-ups or full repainting
- HVAC servicing and filter changes
- Roof inspections and leak repairs
Triple-check the space against the lease’s terms and conditions.
Finally, review your lease agreement carefully. Ensure all terms are clearly stated and that everything promised in the agreement is accounted for during the walk-through. If anything is missing or incorrect, address it before signing. Key things to check include:
- Maintenance responsibilities (who is responsible for repairs?)
- Renewal terms and rent increase conditions
- Exit clauses and break lease penalties
- Insurance requirements and liability coverage
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Once the walk-through is done, the next step is the big move!
At Business Relocations, we’re the New Zealand-owned commercial moving company you can trust. We’ve been providing commercial relocations since 2001, guaranteeing minimal downtime, zero damage, and a smooth transition every time. Ready to get moving? Get in touch with us today for a quote, and let us handle your commercial relocation with ease.
