Commercial construction basics
Bring operational, occupancy, and approval needs into early planning.
Define the business use
Occupancy, public access, operating hours, equipment, and future changes affect design and approvals. Explain the actual use to the design team and local authority early.
Review the existing premises
Tenant improvements may involve lease terms, landlord approvals, fire protection, accessibility, utilities, and work in shared areas. Identify who obtains each approval.
Plan the interruption
Set a phasing plan for deliveries, customer access, staff, noise, and temporary operations. Confirm what can continue during work and what requires closure.
Track completion
Ask about final inspections, commissioning, occupancy permissions, fire or health approvals where relevant, and the documents the business must retain.
Project checklist
- Confirm use, occupancy, and lease approvals.
- Plan phasing around operations.
- Track final permissions and closeout.
Where to shop for materials → Permits and inspections → Budget worksheet →