A Practical Guide to Renting Office Space

Office space must support staff, clients, operations, and growth. A prestigious address is useful only when the building and agreement fit the way the business actually works.

Define operational needs

Estimate usable workstations, meeting space, storage, reception, parking, deliveries, and accessibility. Check business-hour restrictions, signage rules, visitor procedures, and whether your intended activity is allowed.

Inspect building capacity

Test lifts, backup power, internet options, mobile signal, fire exits, water, ventilation, and washrooms. Ask about maintenance response times and planned construction.

Calculate occupancy cost

• Rent, advance, deposit, service charge, parking, and agent fee.
• Fit-out, cabling, furniture, backup systems, and restoration obligations.
• Utilities, taxes or charges assigned by the agreement, and annual increases.
• Costs and notice requirements for early exit or expansion.

Have the lease reviewed independently and attach a condition report before fit-out begins.