Choosing Office Premises

6. Searching for Premises

Searching for new premises will add significantly to your workload.

If the reason behind the relocation is the sudden growth or decline of your business, you will already be extremely busy - so it may be wise to hire a professional (see 6.3) to help you.

6.1 Make the most of personal contacts, especially people who have offices in the area.

• You may be able to share premises.
• Another business may have space to sublet.
• You may hear of suitable premises that have not yet come onto the market.

6.2 Visit several commercial agents who are active in the area you have chosen.

• Question them about the state of the market and any new developments.
• Ask for printed specifications of different premises to be sent to you.
• When comparing different premises, use the total cost per square metre (including annual charges) as a benchmark.

6.3 Consider hiring a chartered surveyor.

• They will know the market and what is available.
• They are experienced in negotiating the price and terms of a contract, taking commercial factors into account.
• They will protect your best interests, unlike commercial agents, who work for the landlord or seller.
• A surveyor can view several premises before recommending a shortlist to you.

6.4 Make contact with local businesses and organisations to ask for advice. For example:

• Your Local Authority's economic development department.
• Your local Business Link, Chambers of Commerce or members of your professional association.

6.5 Read publications such as Estates Gazette and the property pages of broadsheet newspapers.

• There are regular surveys of specific areas. Ask the publication for the most recent survey on the area you are interested in.
• Local newspapers and Dalton's Weekly carry many advertisements for small business premises that do not appear elsewhere.