Important questions to ask when leasing an office space

Work in Moka

16-Feb-2023

6 questions to ask yourself before renting an office

 Your business is in full swing and it’s time to rent a proper workspace that measures up to your ambitions? If you don’t know where to start, well let’s start from the beginning! Together, let’s prepare a checklist of the right questions to ask yourself to guide you in your search.

#1 How much office space do I need?

Determining the appropriate amount of office space for your needs is a critical first step for any office rental project. To help you determine your requirements, consider the following factors:

  • How many employees do you have?
  • What is the current and anticipated size of your business?
  • What are your recruitment plans for the next 5 years?
  • Do your employees work remotely or in the office?

In addition to considering your staffing and operational needs, you should also consider the facilities required to support your team. Do you need a fully equipped kitchen or just a kitchenette? How many toilets will you need? Would you like to include a “green” space for relaxation and breaks?

By considering all of these factors, you can determine the appropriate amount of office space for your current and future needs.

#2 What is included in my Office rent?

It’s important to ask about what’s included in your office rent to avoid unpleasant surprises. Whether you’re a large organization or a start-up, knowing exactly what you’re committing to financially is crucial for your business plan.

To clarify your rental agreement, consider asking the following questions:

  • What is the basic rent?
  • What utilities are covered? (e.g. water, electricity, wastewater treatment, waste management)
  • What operational costs might be added? (e.g. managing agent fees, cleaning and lighting of common areas, maintenance of green spaces, premises maintenance and painting)

Be sure to discuss these details with the property owner or developer to gain a comprehensive understanding of your rental costs.

#3 How much parking space is necessary for your office?

Determining how much office parking is needed can be a challenging task if not planned properly. At Oficea, our experts suggest a parking ratio of 3.5 spaces per 100 square meters of office space. Once you have determined the necessary area for your premises, you can estimate the number of parking spaces your company requires. This leads to the following essential questions:

Are there adequate parking spaces available for visitors?

  • If so, how many spaces are there?
  • If not, what other alternatives are there in the area?

Is there a fee for these parking spaces?

  • If yes, how much does it cost?

Fortunately, Oficea’s workspaces at Bagatelle Business Park, Vivéa Business Park, and Telfair have ample parking for both tenants and visitors, ensuring that this won’t be an issue for you.

#4 What design options should I consider when planning my office space?

When planning your office space, it’s important to strike a balance between meeting practical requirements and achieving a design that reflects your brand and company culture.

Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

  • Is the space flexible and adaptable to your business needs?
  • Can you create an ergonomic workspace that promotes employee well-being and productivity?
  • Do you envision an open-plan layout, private offices, or a mix of both?
  • Are you interested in creating a coworking environment for your team?
  • How many meeting rooms will you require?

At Oficea, we support our tenants throughout the entire office fit-out process to meet their specific needs and aesthetic preferences. Our team of experts is available to support you in the design process, helping you create a practical, modern, and visually appealing workspace. Notably, companies like ELCA, BDO Solutions, and Workshop 17 have already taken advantage of this service in 2022.

#5 What options exist for services and facilities near the office space?

It’s important to consider not just the office space itself, but also the location and the conveniences available nearby. To help assess the area, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Is the location easily accessible, and is it well-served by public transportation?
  • Are there important services nearby, such as banks, ATMs, and post offices?
  • Are there shopping centers or other retail options within easy reach?
  • What dining options are available in the vicinity?

In Moka Smart City, you’ll find a convenient and enjoyable working environment. Our location offers a variety of dining options, as well as everyday conveniences, sports centers, health facilities, and education hubs, all within one kilometer of our offices. Additionally, Moka enjoys a prime location with direct access to the M1 and M2 motorways, as well as easy access to the Saint Pierre Bypass Road and the A7 road. Furthermore, a public transport network provides regular service, making it easy for you and your team to commute to and from the office.

#6 What is the timeline for finalizing a deal?

You’ve finally found the perfect office space in the area of your dreams, and you can already envision yourself thriving in your business there. But how long will it take to complete the necessary legal and administrative steps to secure the space?

Typically, it takes between one and two months from the time you submit your letter of intent to finalize a rental agreement. However, this timeline can vary depending on how long the due diligence process takes. This process is a critical step in ensuring good governance and protecting the interests of both parties involved.

Undertaking a major project or initiative can raise many questions for businesses. At Oficea, our team is here to help you navigate each step of the process with ease and confidence.

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