What Building Code Officials Will Not Tell You
Your design professionals (architects, engineers, interior designers (in certain states) refer frequently to building codes such as the International Building Code in their preparation of…
Access Control Systems Minimize Security Risks in Your Office
The credential may have changed. The more important question is how the access-control system fits into the building, the operation and the organization’s security requirements….
Why Banks Require Environmental Site Assessments When Purchasing Commercial Property
Before you buy the property, understand what may be in the ground—and what liability may come with it. Originally published September 2011. Updated October 2026…
We Have a Guy.” But Is He Right for This Project?
Relationships can identify good candidates. They shouldn’t replace the owner’s process for determining whether those candidates are right for the project. Originally published September 2011….
Your Emergency Plan Says They Need Access. Will They Get In?
After an emergency, identifying essential employees is only part of the plan. Access to the building may be controlled by someone else. Originally published September…
Urinals – Size Really Does Matter
A code-compliant fixture can still be installed at a height that makes little sense for the people expected to use it. Originally published September 22,…
Depreciating Tenant Improvements: What Project Teams Should Know
How a build-out is documented can matter long after construction is complete. Originally published September 2011. Updated September 2026 to reflect current owner-side project practices….
How Will Electricity Be Charged Under Your Office Lease?
Direct metering, submetering and rent inclusion can look like utility details. They can materially affect lease economics and operating costs. Originally published September 2011. Updated…
Controlling the Construction of Tenant Improvements in Office Leases: A Tenant’s Perspective – Part 3 of 3
Continued from Part 1 and Part 2 V. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS in a tenant build work letter In a tenant-controlled construction project, it is critical that…
Controlling the Construction of Tenant Improvements in Office Leases: A Tenant’s Perspective – Part 2 of 3
Continued from Part 1 III. FUNDAMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS A. Landlord’s Motives Typically, both the tenant and the landlord will seek to control the expenditure of the tenant…
Controlling the Construction of Tenant Improvements in Office Leases: A Tenant’s Perspective – Part 1 of 3
I. OVERVIEWThe tenant work letter, is an agreement that is entered into concurrently with the execution of a lease and sets forth the terms upon…
There Is No “Standard” Commercial Lease
The rent may get most of the attention. The provisions governing operating costs, construction, capital obligations, restoration and future flexibility can determine what the deal…
I Have Asbestos in My Building, Now What?
Finding asbestos in an existing building doesn’t automatically answer what the project should do next. The project team is planning a renovation when someone delivers…
Communications Planning Before Natural Disasters
When operations are disrupted, the communication plan has to work before everyone starts asking what is happening. A natural disaster doesn’t have to damage your…
Fire Safety in Your Office – Pre-Fire Inspection Checklist
A fire inspection should confirm that required safeguards are in place. A simple walk-through beforehand can uncover problems that should already have been addressed. Originally…