First and foremost, it is absolutely essential to take a digital camera with you to viewings; after seeing perhaps 6 properties, the accuracy of your memory can begin to fade!
Writing a comprehensive checklist can save you time and money (our ethos here at FindaLondonOffice) as you will be able to fit more viewings into your schedule. It forces you to avoid being taken with a property that does not fully meet your requirements.
Without further ado, here are 21 things to to add to your checklist for when you inspect office space in London:
- How much does it appeal to you? This is a simple question, but even if the office meets your criteria, it is important that you like it.
- You may like it, but will it suit your company’s image?
- Will your staff like it?
- Can your staff get to it easily? What kind of transport links are in the area.
- Are there any car parking facilities and are they sufficient?
- Is the entrance, reception and the external proximity to the point of entry acceptable?
- Is there a commissionaire and if so, is he or she up to the standard you need?
- Is there a video entry phone, and does it work?
- Do you have higher security requirements than the average company? Does the building have adequate security?
- If your staff work late, is the route to the transport used as safe as you would like?
- Lifts; are there enough and are they a sufficient size?
- Natural light; is there enough to meet your desires?
- What is the general condition of the building? Is this acceptable, or can you see how you can bring it up to your preferred standard?
- The shape; does the shape suit the way your company works whether that be individuals, teams or a combination?
- Is it centrally heated, does it have comfort cooling or has it got full air conditioning?
- Is it good enough to provide the work environment you need for maximum productivity?
- Is there a view? Not always important to all, but many like to have a view from say their boardroom or breakout area.
- Is it a raised floor, has it got underfloor trunking, or has it got perimeter trunking? Again, does it have the facility you need?
- Who else is already in the building? Could this present a problem?
- What is in close proximity to the building? Is the surrounding area attractive? This is more important if your office is client facing.
- What nearby services are there?
Please use the above to start your list as it is not exhaustive.
At FindaLondonOffice we would strongly advise you to make the most complete check list you can – we know from experience it makes the process better, more efficient and much quicker. If you are using us, we will accompany you to your viewings
Register your details and we can help you determine your requirements.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Nice list, thank you very much. I find that it does not have some of the key elements I personally am looking for.
1: Internet connection. I do a require a good quality internet. The best thing a serviced office has going, is the ability to provide a proper connection for the customers.
2: Other companies in/near the building. I lean on others for inspiration and information, they are as important as the view.
An internet connection falls under the category of telecoms, which should be set up correctly in any case. In a conventional office you can choose any level of connection that you want from your favoured choice of provider. Serviced offices do tend to have a good internet connection, but if their connection is poor, you will have to fork out for your own, on top of their rate (if it is inclusive in your rent).
Serviced offices tend to be used for shorter leases often many firms coming and going. It is quite common to find that the level of networking is much poorer than one might expect. Again, with a conventional office, you can locate close to other firms should you wish.