03/09/2025
It’s expensive and complicated opening a hospitality venue, but there are a few key things you can check before signing a lease to save money and stress.
1. Accessibility - Wheelchair users must access your space. Front doors need 760mm clear width and no steps over 20mm. If there are steps, you’ll need a 1:12 ramp with handrails, which is costly if added later.
2. Power - A retail site with 60 amp single phase usually isn’t enough. Venues need extraction fans, air conditioning, and equipment. Upgrading power can cost tens of thousands and cause months of delays. Confirm capacity or negotiate a landlord upgrade.
3. Drainage - Drainage works by gravity. If the connection is far from your kitchen or toilets, you’ll need to cut the floor (engineers, costs, delays). Choose a site with drainage close to where you need it.
4. Mechanical extraction - Rules cover distance from windows, acoustic wraps, UV treatment if apartments are above, etc. Costs can quickly reach tens of thousands.
5. Fire protection - Offices and retail need less fire protection than venues. More people and fire risk mean higher-spec alarms and systems. Factor this in before signing.
6. Lease terms - Demo clauses or short leases kill resale value. Buyers need time to recover their investment and profit, plus resale security. Aim for rights of renewal giving 15–20 years total. Always get a leasing specialist to review technical terms.
These are just a few checks. Others include gas, water, emergency lighting, and more.
Comment “checklist” below and I’ll send you the full version I’ve built over 500+ design projects to ensure every part of a site is documented. Or reach out if you’ve got a site and want help deciding if it’s the right one for you.
