A commercial fit-out has a deadline, because the premises usually cannot trade until it is finished. Most of the delays come from approvals that were left too late, so it helps to settle them before the builder starts.
Your landlord and your lease
Tenants normally need the landlord’s written consent, often a licence for alterations, before changing the premises. It may require the drawings, a schedule of works and insurance details, and it can take time.
Planning and Building Regulations
- Planning. A change of use, new shopfront, signage or external plant may need planning or advertisement consent.
- Building Regulations. Alterations can need approval for structure, fire safety, accessibility, ventilation and energy performance.
Fire safety
The person responsible for the premises must carry out a fire risk assessment, and the layout, escape routes and fire protection of the fitted-out space affect it. The government’s guidance on workplace fire safety explains those duties.
Licensing and other registrations
- Food businesses must register with the local authority before trading.
- Premises serving alcohol or providing certain entertainment need a licence.
- Insurance for the premises and the works should be checked with your insurer.
Plan the work around trading
If you will keep trading, tell your builder at the start so that phasing, working hours, noise, dust and access can be planned.
This guide is general information for homes in England and is not legal or planning advice. Rules can change and differ between properties and local authorities, so always confirm the position with your council or a qualified professional.
See our commercial construction service or request a quote and tell us about your premises.