Critical Considerations Before Constructing Your New Business Premises
If you are looking to construct new premises for your business in the UK, there are several critical factors you need to consider before breaking ground. Careful planning and preparation in the early stages of your building project will help ensure its success and prevent costly mistakes down the line.
Below, we will discuss some of the key considerations including hiring professionals, obtaining necessary permits, choosing the right location, and more. Taking the time to get these elements right will lead to premises that are ideally suited to your company’s needs and support your future growth and prosperity.
Choosing the Right Location
One of the most important decisions is choosing the right location for your new premises. Considerations include proximity to your client base, access to transport links and utilities, parking availability, planning restrictions, expansion potential, and cost. Visiting potential sites in person can help assess if the area meets your needs. Seek advice from local commercial real estate agents on optimal locations for your industry. Choosing the wrong area can hamper your operations, so research your options thoroughly.
Understanding Your Budget
Having a realistic budget in place before starting your project is vital. Construction costs in the UK span widely based on factors like location, scale, materials, and specifications. Meet with architects and builders to obtain accurate quotes on your space requirements so you can allocate sufficient funds. Be sure to budget extra contingency amounts to cover unexpected overruns. Secure financing and have a plan for managing cash flow through the multi-month build process. Track all expenditures closely to avoid cost blowouts.
Conduct Building Surveys
Before designing plans, it’s advisable to contact a utility survey company such as csw-surveys.co.uk and conduct utility surveys of potential sites. These surveys identify and map existing above and below ground utilities like electric, gas, water and sewer lines. The results inform the design to avoid service disruptions. Utility surveys provide valuable insight to ensure your plans optimise use of the space and budget.
It’s also important to complete GDR surveys before construction to identify any groundwater contamination risks. GDR surveys assess previous land use that may have caused ground pollution. This informs plans for safe buildings and minimises environmental liabilities.
Hiring Professionals for the Build Plans
Bringing in qualified architects and engineers early on is highly advisable to develop build plans that adhere to UK building regulations. These professionals can assess your business requirements and design optimised plans including layouts, workflows and specifications. Their oversight will ensure your plans account for fire escapes, disability access, parking allotments, materials, electrics and other rules.
Complying with Regulations
In addition to build plans, your project must comply with all relevant UK regulations and planning permissions. Complex rules govern constructions including health and safety codes, environmental impact assessments, and disability access. Hiring knowledgeable professionals will ensure your plans satisfy requirements, allowing you to gain necessary council approvals.
Incorporating Sustainability
Today’s business premises should be built with environmental sustainability in mind. Consider renewable energy systems like solar panels to reduce your carbon footprint. Use energy and water-efficient fittings. Look for recyclable and non-toxic construction materials. An eco-conscious build helps project a green image and saves money long-term.
Constructing new business premises requires evaluating key factors like finding the right location, analysing your maximum budget, hiring professionals, and complying with regulations. Careful planning will provide the ideal foundation for your company’s future.
