Before we break down the process, what exactly is tenant improvement (TI)? A TI is when you configure a rental space to meet the needs of a tenant, such as changing walls, floors, ceilings, lighting, and more. TI can be simple or complicated, depending on the space and the type of business, but we’ve created a list of common steps to provide an overview of what a tenant might expect when doing a commercial build-out.
Steps of the Tenant Improvement Process
- TI Allowance & Lease Negotiation
- Commercial General Contractor(GC) Selection
- Design & Planning
- Preliminary Cost Estimate
- Sign Contract
- Plan Review & Permitting
- Construction
- Weekly Progress Reports
- Utility Setup
- Final Inspection
- Final Walkthrough & Punch List
- Certificate of Occupancy
- Closeout Documents
Tips for a Successful TI
- Plan early, before signing a lease
- Plan with future growth in mind
- Work with your space, not against it
- Balance wants & needs
- Think from the perspective of clients/patients/customers/employees
- Be realistic about your budget
- Discuss plans with the landlord
- Ask for free/discounted rent as a tenant inducement
- Consider having the landlord manage and pay for the TI
- Plan a timeline that will minimize disruptions
- Set aside a contingency fund in case the TI goes over budget/past deadlines
Conclusion
Emerald handles any type of TI job you can imagine– new-builds & remodels of dental offices, medical offices, restaurants, ghost kitchens, warehouse/industrial flex, office space, and more. Call us at 480-832-9808 or email us today to set up a consultation– we’d love to work with you!
