Check the space and lease conditions

Check what is actually in the space

An existing restaurant fit-out can be useful, but it does not establish that your proposed menu and equipment will work there. Arrange a review of the existing systems with your design team.

Give bidders the same available records. Where drawings and the actual space differ, identify who will investigate and how the finding will be shared.

• Collect available existing plans and equipment information.
• Review electrical service, drainage, ventilation and utility capacity.
• Record access restrictions and areas outside the leased space.

Turn lease questions into assigned decisions

Your lease and landlord documents may describe work, approvals and handover conditions in different places. Ask a qualified lease adviser to explain unclear obligations before you rely on them.

Keep the construction team informed of agreed requirements. A landlord’s consent and a government approval are different decisions; track both.

• List landlord review and access requirements.
• Identify the agreed starting condition of the premises.
• Confirm responsibility for work in common or roof areas.

Resolve the handoff between landlord and tenant

A scope gap happens when everyone assumes somebody else is paying for or completing an item. Utility upgrades and equipment connections deserve particular attention.

Create one responsibility list that both sides can review. Reference the agreed documents rather than relying on a conversation about what a typical lease includes.

• Name who provides, installs and connects each major item.
• Record testing, patching and restoration responsibilities.
• Ask how unresolved building conditions will be handled.

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