When you are acquiring an interest in a property, your due diligence process needs to be carefully considered in order to protect you from the numerous pitfalls that properties bring with them. The statutory requirements relating to commercial property ownership are changing at an ever increasing rate. As as a result you need the kind of specialist advice that comes from a wealth of experience in the commercial sector to be sure that you are making the most informed decision you can.

Whilst most people assume that pre-acquisition surveys are only for acquiring freehold and long leasehold property, there can be major benefits in considering a survey in relation to short leases, particularly of larger premises. There can me lots of surprises hidden behind how a building is either constructed or repaired prior to marketing. You don't want to uncover these costly surprises when you've signed the lease, so be prepared, contact us now.

The condition of the building has traditionally been at the forefront of peoples minds when buying freehold property, however other considerations are now just as important if not more:

Energy efficiency - The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) now preclude letting of commercial premises with energy efficiency ratings of less than E. In October 2019, the government launched a consultation on changing the minimum rating from E to either B (preferred) or C by 2030. This increases the likelihood of many properties requiring major upgrades or indeed replacement in order for Landlords to remain within the law. Whilst the upcoming targets look daunting, it is likely that there will be assistance to help landlords comply. Nevertheless, with legislation now moving at speed in order to try and achieve the Governments Net Zero ambitions, now is the time to start thinking about how you keep your buildings compliant. 

Air-conditioning obsolescence. Most people know about R22 and the issues that caused, both in the run up to 2015 and since. However, it didn't stop with R22, the phasing out and phasing down of many other refrigerants currently in use in air-conditioning systems continues until 2030, so the maintenance and de-commissioning problems and increased costs will happen with many other systems still in use.

Covid compliance - Whilst we all are hoping that the onset of vaccines will represent a panacea for the workplace, in reality, there is not yet the evidence to support that. Moving forward it is likely that we will want to ensure our buildings are more resilient when pandemics hit. That can be something as simple as a shop entrance that can accommodate entry and exit with social distancing, or the need for office spaces to have ventilation systems, which limit the spread of virus.

Whatever you want from your building, we can help you make sure it won't let you down.