Check Carefully: Common Areas and Your Office Space
When viewing a building, don’t just walk through your private office, explore the shared areas, too. The lobby, hallways, restrooms, and elevators all influence your team’s daily experience.
If you want to view a building, it is mandatory to explore the shared areas; do not just walk through your private office. The lobby, hallways, restrooms, and elevators all influence your team’s daily experience.
Check everything, like the lobby feels welcoming and clean, clean tiles, working lights, and fresh paint, elevators work smoothly, also the washrooms are maintained or not.
Imagine how your team would use it? Where does the team collaborate? Is there enough natural light? If sunlight hits computer screens directly?
Building Security and Access
Security is an essential thing. You have to know that the Are guards are on duty 24/7, or only during business hours. How do guests enter the building?
Also, ensure that using a keycard or a mobile app, can your employees enter the office?If your company works late, ensure the building won’t lock down early.
Check the security system, like Cameras in hallways, emergency exits, and secure entry. If you handle sensitive data or expensive equipment, then you need advanced digital security systems or monitored access control.
Check the Mechanical Systems: Elevators, Power, and HVAC
Check the elevator system at busy times because the unseen parts of a building have the biggest impact on comfort.Â
Ask key questions about the HVAC system:
Who controls the temperature? Are there separate zones? What are the operating hours? What’s the cost for extra air conditioning?
For teams that work long hours or handle sensitive things, heating and cooling are especially important for them. Check power outlets and electrical panels to ensure the space supports your company’s tech setup.
Space Example: Flatiron Loft
If you want a well-designed, functional office look, take a look at this Flatiron loft space for rent on West 25th Street.Â
This space is a mixture of charm, has open layouts, large windows, and updated systems that attract people and are well-suited to creative or tech teams.
There are many options. If you want a trendy, artsy vibe, the SoHo area offers loft-style offices with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and plenty of natural light. Chelsea Tech Hub designed buildings with tech companies in mind.
Neighborhood and Transportation
Before deciding, it is important to check if the area is safe or not also take a short walk around the block
You have to think about your employees’ satisfaction. Nearby cafes, grocery stores, and gyms can also improve satisfaction.
Amenities and Renovations
It is important to visit shared amenities like gyms, lounges, or rooftop terraces. Don’t trust just the brochure photos.
Ask when the building last went through renovations and whether upgrades included plumbing, elevators, or energy-efficient lighting. These updates can affect long-term operating costs.
Check Lighting and Acoustics
Lighting is important; Lighting and sound quality affect productivity. Is it too bright or too dim?Â
For acoustics, listen for echoes or outside noise. Open-plan offices can get noisy fast, especially near elevators or shared kitchens.Â
To create a better working environment, teams need a comfortable noise level and balanced lighting.
Internet, Connectivity, and Power Supply
A modern office is only as good as its internet. Ask which service providers are available in the building and whether high-speed fiber connections are already installed.
It’s also smart to check for emergency power backup. Some buildings have generators or battery systems to protect against blackouts, a big plus if uptime is critical for your operations.
Understand Lease Terms and Hidden Costs
A perfect office won’t feel perfect if the lease hides extra costs. Before you commit, review what’s included in the rent: utilities, maintenance, cleaning, and property taxes.
Ask about additional expenses such as overtime, HVAC charges, parking fees, or shared amenity costs.
Final Thought
Take your time during the tour, ask questions, and imagine your team working there daily. A well-inspected space can save you from unexpected costs, improve productivity, and give your business a place to grow comfortably and confidently. Ready to find the right workspace? Contact us today to get started!
FAQs
Q: What should I focus on touring a new office space?
A: Do not start liking it by the modern design or the big windows; you have to check how functional the space is. Imagine the space as your daily office for your team.
Q: How can I check the building’s security?
A: Ask about guard schedules, cameras, emergency exits, and controlled access points. ensure 24/7 access and a strong security setup.
Q: How to avoid hidden costs?Â
A: Before signing, check the rent and what’s not, also ask about maintenance and shared amenity fees.Â
