Planning an office remodel or tenant improvement in Arizona?
Before you sign that lease or finalize your design, make sure you’re not overlooking hidden details that can add thousands to your construction budget.
At Emerald Inc., we’ve helped business owners across Arizona transform empty spaces into functional, beautiful offices. Along the way, we’ve seen a few common oversights that can cause major surprises.
Here are nine things people often miss when building out office space — and how to avoid them.
1. Check the HVAC Units — Don’t Assume They Work
The condition of the air conditioning units has a huge impact on your total cost per square foot. Some properties sit vacant for years, and while HVAC systems may be in place, they aren’t always operational.
We once helped a client with three existing units, only to find one was beyond repair. Always confirm how many units are installed, their age, and their condition before planning your build-out.
2. Confirm Insulation in Walls and Ceilings
Insulation is sometimes delayed until final space planning is complete. If it hasn’t been installed yet, you’ll face additional costs to bring the space to code.
Ask whether the walls and deck are insulated, and request documentation to verify it.
3. Understand the Association Fees
Nearly all commercial properties come with association or maintenance fees, and they can vary widely from one property to another. Before choosing between locations, factor these costs into your monthly budget so there are no surprises later.
4. Check the Floors — Are They Poured or Open?
Unpoured concrete floors are common in spaces awaiting plumbing layout decisions. Some have open trenches for plumbing, others are fully poured.
If you need to add bathrooms or sinks later, cutting into existing concrete can significantly increase your costs. Always inspect the floors to confirm their status before design begins.
5. Verify Termite Certification
Arizona’s climate makes termite prevention essential. If a termite certificate isn’t current, you’ll be required to obtain one before occupancy. Having a recent certificate provides peace of mind and prevents costly delays.
6. Ask About Deferred Impact Fees
Municipalities often charge impact fees on new or remodeled properties. In some cases, these fees are deferred until final construction.
You don’t want to be surprised with a large, last-minute expense—so confirm whether the fees have already been paid or are still outstanding.
7. Review Utility Availability
Most utilities are straightforward, but data and internet providers can vary. If your business relies on high-speed connectivity, verify which providers serve your area before signing a lease or starting construction.
8. Inspect for Signs of Heaving Concrete
Expansive soils in Arizona can cause heaving or cracking in concrete floors. When reviewing a previously built space, look closely for uneven flooring, cracked tiles, or lifted slabs.
Identifying these signs early can help you address soil issues before they become structural problems.
9. Explore All Financing Options
Many business owners assume they must rely on their bank for construction financing—but there are often more flexible options available.
Emerald Inc. can connect you with trusted professionals who specialize in commercial construction financing for office remodels and tenant improvements. A little research here can go a long way toward keeping your project on budget.
Pro Tip: Involve Your Contractor Early
The earlier you bring a general contractor into your planning process, the more value they can add. At Emerald Inc., we help clients:
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Identify potential issues before they become expensive problems
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Explore alternative solutions that meet design goals and budgets
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Provide preliminary cost estimates to support financing applications
Ready to Plan Your Office Remodel in Arizona?
If you’re considering an office build-out, tenant improvement, or commercial remodel, we’re here to help.
Emerald Inc. has decades of experience as a general contractor in Mesa, Arizona, specializing in office renovations, tenant improvements, and industrial construction projects.
📞 Call us today at 480-832-9808
📧 Email info@emeraldinc.biz
Editor’s Note: This article was updated in November 2025 with new insights for office remodels and tenant improvements in Arizona.