5 questions to ask when leasing a business space

Choosing the right office space for lease and business storage solution is crucial for small business success. A rushed decision can lead to costly setbacks, financially and operationally. This guide outlines five key questions to help you find a space that fits your business needs and avoids unnecessary pitfalls.

Before you lease an office space: Quick Checklist

• Define your essentials: Budget, location, services, and lease flexibility matter the most.
• Save by combining: Evaluate combined office + storage solutions versus separate facilities to optimise costs.
• Think long-term: Prioritise secure premises and verify essential amenities like internet, meeting rooms, and on-site logistics support.
• Adapt as you grow: Flexible lease terms allow your business to scale up or down as needed.

Careful planning is essential. Once you’ve signed an office space for lease, reversing your decision is rarely easy, or affordable. The right office space can significantly impact your daily operations, budget, and growth trajectory. 

1. How much is it going to cost me?

Running a successful business is a game of balancing numbers. The fundamental consideration that takes precedence when you are considering leasing office space is whether the company can afford it. When looking at storage and office facilities, compare the cost of a turnkey office and storage solution against the cost of separating the two business functions at different locations. The first option may be more budget-friendly in the long run.

The size of the offices and storage facilities also needs to be factored into the cost. U Can Store offers different storage options for small and larger businesses, ranging from compact storage units to larger warehousing facilities. 

CTA: Not sure what size storage unit you need? Our Sizing Guide makes it easy.

Pro Tip: U Can Store offers various small business storage solutions ranging from compact units to mini warehousing, ideal for managing costs effectively

2. Where are the facilities located? 

Location. Location. Location. To steal the old maxim from the real estate fraternity, location is one of the first considerations when it comes to deciding the best office space and storage facilities for your business.

Location of your business storage space is critical for operational efficiency:

• Opt for centrally-located office space for lease to enhance convenience.
• Consider facilities offering integrated office storage to provide immediate stock access, streamline logistics and reduce overall costs.

Highlight: U Can Store’s facilities are centrally located within Johannesburg, combining office and storage solutions conveniently.

U Can Store business facilities are centrally located in key business areas around Johannesburg, with storage and warehousing facilities on the same site as our office spaces. 

3. Does the business space have the necessary amenities and offer key services for my operations? 

Speedy internet, meeting rooms to host clients, along with comfortable chairs and desks are non-negotiables at any office. Before deciding on an office space, it’s best to figure out exactly what your company needs are and check these requirements against the amenities of the space you have in mind. 

Before committing to leasing office space, confirm the following:

• High-speed, secure internet connection
• Availability of meeting rooms for in-person client interactions
• Adequate office furnishings and equipment
• Availability of parking facilities for staff and clients
• Access to public transport options

For onsite storage solutions, verify:

• Availability of forklifts and operators
• Accessibility to packing supplies and inventory equipment
• Adequate space for inventory management

Benefit: U Can Store provides comprehensive on-site logistics and inventory management tools to simplify business operations.

4. Are the premises secure? 

Naturally, security should be a top priority for any retail business holding stock over time, particularly for retail businesses. Be sure to confirm whether the office space for lease is well-equipped with the following: 

• Confirm 24/7 premises monitoring
• Verify surveillance camera installations
• Check for on-site security personnel
• Evaluate access control systems, such as key card entry

Security Assurance: U Can Store ensures maximum security with constant surveillance, patrols, and advanced access control systems, keeping your stock and office safe.

Secure Your Self-Storage Business Today—Learn Essential Safety Tips Now!

5. What is the leasing period on the contract? 

Everyone has a story about that one time they signed up for a gym membership only to end up never going, but being locked into the contract anyway. It’s ok, lessons were learned, now apply them to shopping around for the right office and storage facilities.

Flexibility in office space leasing terms is crucial:

• Avoid restrictive long-term contracts if your business needs frequent adjustments.
• Opt for flexible arrangements allowing easy upscaling or downsizing.
• Check for clauses related to lease renewal and early termination fees

Flexible Leasing: U Can Store offers short-term (month-to-month) and longer-term (6-month) leasing options tailored to evolving business needs.

Ready to Lease Smarter?

At U Can Store we understand that business needs change, which is why we offer short/long-term leases with deposits required (‘normal storage’ unit month-to-month contracts and 6-month office unit leases), so business owners can adapt their storage and office requirements as their company evolves.

Start your flexible office lease today – short and long-term options available. Contact us now to find your ideal business space

Learn more about our business solutions and gain everything you need to know today. Get access to your checklist to help you make sure you make the right decision for your business needs.