Signed a lease? Here’s what happens next
A plain-English guide to the steps between signing a commercial lease and opening your doors.
Signing a lease is exciting. It is also the moment the clock starts, because rent is often due long before the first customer walks in. Knowing the steps ahead helps you plan your opening date and your budget.
1. Walk the space with your design-build team
Before anything is drawn, walk the space together. Talk about how you want it to work, who your customers are, and when you need to open. Existing conditions, such as plumbing, electrical capacity and ventilation, shape what is possible.
2. Design and drawings
Your team develops the layout, finishes, lighting and signage. Good design at this stage is about how the space works day to day, not only how it looks.
3. Permits and approvals
Most commercial work needs permits from the local building department, and some landlords require their own approvals. Requirements vary by town and building, so build time for this into your schedule.
4. Construction
Demolition, framing, mechanical work, finishes and fixtures. With one team managing every trade, schedules stay coordinated instead of waiting on hand-offs.
5. Finishing touches and opening
Signage, displays, furnishings and final inspections come together in the last stretch. Plan a little buffer before your opening date for punch-list items.
6. After you open
A space needs care once it is in use. Ask early about maintenance and property management so you are not looking for help when something needs attention.
If you have just signed a lease, the sooner you bring a design-build team in, the more options you keep open.
Planning a project?
Talk to the team that designs, builds and maintains it.