Top 5 Tips to Avoid Hidden Building Upgrade Costs.

What you need to know when choosing your new Tenancy.

When planning a fitout, two key factors you must consider are aligning the space with your operational needs and creating an environment that supports employee well-being, culture, and engagement.

Attracting and retaining top talent has become a critical priority for business leaders in 2025. While flexible work options gained popularity during the pandemic, the trend is shifting, and many companies are now encouraging staff to return to the office. This shift highlights the importance of creating a workspace that fosters collaboration, culture, and employee well-being and ensures it meets the evolving needs of the workforce.

To stay competitive, it’s essential to conduct thorough due diligence before committing to a new tenancy. This approach can help you avoid unexpected upgrade costs and ensure your new space supports your business goals and your team.

Key Considerations for a New Tenancy: Here are top five crucial aspects to evaluate when selecting your next workspace:

Floor Plate Size

It's not merely about providing sufficient space for your employees—it's about comprehending how they will utilise the environment. Examine crucial elements like average office attendance, team interaction dynamics, and the necessary work settings, meeting rooms, and storage. This thorough evaluation assists you in designing a space that is both efficient and functional.

Space Planning

Modern workspaces need to do more than just accommodate workstations—they should encourage collaboration, communication, and a sense of community. Large breakout areas are essential for fostering social interaction and can double as venues for company events and business announcements. Additionally, consider the flexibility of the existing layout. Can you repurpose current elements, or should you incorporate movable settings to adapt to future changes?

Location

Your office location should balance accessibility and convenience for both employees and clients. Proximity to public transport and a central position are key to bringing people back into the office. While you might find lower rents in fringe locations or B-grade buildings, think about whether the compromise aligns with your business needs and employee preferences.

Amenities and Facilities

Commercial buildings are graded (Premium, A-grade, or B-grade) based on factors such as age, location, and available facilities. Selecting a space with quality amenities—like end-of-trip facilities, easy access to public transport, on-site cafes, or parking—can significantly enhance the office experience and motivate employees to return in person.

Services and Infrastructure

Evaluate the building's current infrastructure to prevent unforeseen expenses during the fitout process. Important factors to consider include IT networks, air conditioning, and electrical capacity. For example, ensure the air conditioning sufficiently covers your area, or determine if expensive upgrades are necessary. Likewise, review the layout of power outlets and cabling. Certain structural features, such as concrete floors, can make alterations costly and time-consuming. Opting for a higher-spec building with slightly higher rent might ultimately be more economical than choosing a cheaper property that requires significant upgrades.

Need Help?

By carefully evaluating your options and conducting thorough due diligence, you can avoid hidden building upgrade costs and set your business up for success in its new space.

Choosing the right tenancy can be a challenging process, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our team is here to help you find the perfect solution for your business. Start your journey today by downloading our comprehensive office fit-out checklist or speak to one of our consultants.