Inspect and research premises

Make inquiries and conduct research relevant to the business, the lease and the property (including comparisons with other premises) before making any commitments to buy, lease, take on an assignment or incur any other obligations.

Identify the accommodation features that a business like yours should have so that you'll eventually lease a property best suited to your needs. Talking to other people in the same industry and inspecting premises where similar businesses are conducted will help your research.

Be aware that you take the premises as you find them and it's your responsibility to ensure the premises are fit for the purpose for which you intend to use them.

Before you sign the lease check for zoned use, prohibitions, restrictions and work orders with the relevant government authorities (such as local council, water authority, Health Department, Department of Planning and Infrastructure, WA Planning Commission, and Main Roads). Ensure you obtain the necessary business licences and approvals before making an unconditional commitment to lease commercial premises.

What's next...

• Step 3: Obtain preliminary documentation
• Step 4: Obtain professional advice
• Step 5: Negotiate the lease