Commercial property viewing checklist

Ask for rent, service charges, rates or property taxes, insurance and any other recurring charges in writing.

Record the term, rent review dates, deposit, guarantees and any break options. Ask your adviser to check the actual wording.

Clarify responsibility for the roof, structure, equipment, maintenance and the condition required at the end of the lease.

List the deposit, fit-out, professional fees and equipment you will need before you can trade.

Look for damp, leaks, damage and signs of previous repairs. Note what needs an independent inspection.

Confirm water, drainage, electricity, heating and connectivity suit the equipment and hours you plan to use.

Check measured usable areas, storage, customer flow, delivery access and space for waste.

Walk the customer and staff routes. Record steps, door widths, toilet arrangements and adaptations to investigate.

View the frontage from both directions. Ask about signage, restrictions and what might obstruct it.

Check crossings, parking arrangements, nearby stops and the actual route to the entrance.

Visit at relevant times on different days. Record your own observations of passing people and neighbouring businesses.

Note complementary businesses and competitors. Ask about vacant units, works and developments to verify separately.

Confirm with the relevant authority and your adviser whether your business activity, opening hours and alterations are allowed.

Check the proposed menu against the kitchen services, extraction route and any permissions or work needed.

Check the layout for food preparation, washing, refrigeration, waste and deliveries with a suitable specialist.

Walk through a busy service. Ask about seating outside, noise, opening-hour restrictions and any licences you may need.