Here ’ s seven ways to make your relocation a success
ADVICE
ON THE MOVE ?
Here ’ s seven ways to make your relocation a success
Kevin McGorie , partner in Sanderson Weatherall ’ s North-East agency team , guides you through seven ways to make moving offices a success .
The sustainability agenda and drive towards net zero , along with the post-pandemic shift to hybrid working , is motivating more businesses to move offices . It ’ s an exciting time for any business , but moving is a big project .
From finding the right space and negotiating your lease , to designing your new environment and managing moving day logistics , there ’ s a lot to think about . But the benefits of a move can be huge ; re-energising the team , attracting new talent and , ultimately , making your business more successful .
1 . Evaluate Why do you want to move ? Whether it ’ s size , location , cost , quality , or energy efficiency , evaluate why you want to move and set objectives . It will help you think clearly throughout the relocation process , especially when choosing the building and space that ’ s right for you . Understand what you ’ re leaving behind You may need to save some of your budget for costs associated to your current office . Understand your current lease and identify any costs you may incur when you leave . You should also assess if there are any post tenancy building repairs you need to pay for .
2 . Communicate Talk to people within your business and find out what they want out of their office .
Make sure the relocation , budget and objectives have been agreed by your stakeholders . This will help you during the process and help speed negotiations when you find the right space .
3 . Analyse Where : Understand the market and analyse how the new location will impact on your business and team . What : Have a vision of what you want by asking : How much space do we need ? What energy targets do we need to deliver ? What sort of work environment do we want for employees ? When : Competition for space means you might need to move quickly when you find somewhere you like . Be clear on your timescales for the move , and factor potential overlaps into your budget .
4 . Identify When you ’ ve found a space you like , check it meets your objectives by thoroughly understanding the specification and credentials of the building .
Identify any potential issues with the building by undertaking a due diligence survey . Check the space can safely fit the number of people in your business and that it complies with health and safety regulations .
Be aware of the service charge and check previous budgets . This will help you understand how the building is managed and see if any expensive repairs have been undertaken and charged back to the tenants .
Get to know your potential neighbours . Surrounding occupiers can tell you a lot about a location and any potential for new business opportunities .
5 . Negotiate In a competitive market , landlords are unlikely to wait - once you ’ ve chosen your space , you ’ ll need to move quickly to secure it .
With increasing demand for Grade A space and rising rents , the landlord may be bullish with negotiations , which is where an experienced office agent can help .
Check the paperwork with your solicitor and make sure you understand the terms of your lease and any clauses .
6 . Create Think about what sort of environment you want to create for your staff to boost office attendance , and how you can deliver on your ESG strategy .
Create a space to inspire , engage and encourage a sense of culture and community among staff .
A well designed fit-out can help you deliver a sustainable and energy efficient environment and meet your net zero targets .
7 . Manage Once you ’ ve settled into your new office , keep an eye on occupational costs and identify where you may be able to make cost reductions .
Understanding your business rates , rent reviews and setting up maintenance and repair management will help avoid any sudden costs during your tenancy .
For more information on moving office call Kevin McGorie on 0191 269 0174 or email kevin . mcgorie @ sw . co . uk .
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