As when purchasing a residential property, purchasing or leasing a commercial premises is a big commitment and it is important purchasers and proposed lessees understand what they may be  signing up to. So….what are your options?

If you are purchasing a commercial premises, it may be beneficial to consider a pre-purchase Building Survey. Like a residential pre-purchase survey, the commercial building survey would typically include a visual inspection of accessible and visible areas of the building internally and also externally from the ground or safely available spaces such as balconies, terraces etc. Surveyors would also typically use equipment to aid their investigations which may include a low-level ladder, torch, damp/moisture meter, binoculars etc. Many of our surveyors also carry extendable pole cameras which extend to a certain height and may allow the surveyor to take photos of any visible higher-level areas which cannot be seen from the ground although it cannot be guaranteed that all high-level areas will be visible. The survey may also include some operational checks of items such as windows and doors etc. Our report would usually contain sections discussing key constructional elements internally and externally but would also usually include sections relating to structural movement, timber defects, dampness and more. It is however important to note that surveyors do not typically carry out destructive investigations so cannot comment on concealed or hidden areas beyond any assumptions made. Building Surveyors also cannot test or check service installations should only be checked and tested by qualified engineers or specialist equipment that may be contained in a commercial premises. The surveyor will usually however, inspect the areas of services that are visible such as any visible items such as meters, wiring, radiators etc. The Building Survey should provide the purchaser with information about the property and its construction, items that may require repairs/maintenance, items that require further investigation and prompts for legal advisers.  Building Surveys on commercial properties can be invaluable in providing buyers with an overview of works required allowing buying to assess if they can commit financially and otherwise to the purchase being mindful of works and any further investigations required.

If you are looking to lease a commercial premises, you may wish to consider a Photographic Schedule of Condition. Signing up to a lease will mean the tenant has the responsibility of complying with the clauses set out in the lease which depending on the lease terms, could include maintenance works, repairs and other obligations. Before taking over a commercial premises, a Photographic Schedule of Condition can be carried out which records the existing condition and defects to a property with accompanying photographs and acts as a record which can help safeguard the tenant from being obligated to remedy defects that may have existed before they commenced their lease.

Or, if you already own/lease a commercial property and need some advice, we can help too! Give our friendly team a call for an informal chat about your options on 01872 277230 or email info@cockrams-surveyors.co.uk