The short answer
Treat the lease and the building as two connected investigations. Confirm permitted use, capacity, utilities, ventilation, accessibility, delivery, waste, construction responsibility, schedule and total occupancy exposure.
Step by step
Work through the decision
- 01Clarify the intended use and operating hours
- 02Commission appropriate physical due diligence
- 03Map landlord and tenant work
- 04Model rent, additional charges and guarantees
- 05Align contingencies with approvals and financing
Common mistakes
- Assuming prior restaurant use is sufficient
- Focusing only on base rent
- Accepting verbal building promises
- Starting design before responsibility is clear
Working checklist