Here are some tips for any business owners and entrepreneurs eyeing to convert properties into a retail store or restaurant with commercial renovations.
When some businesses undergo commercial renovations, it’s often a rather straightforward process of upgrading and updating the existing building space with the intent of carrying out former operations. When commercial renovations convert properties that previously weren’t used for retail or restaurants into ones that will be, that is a whole other story. Certainly, these types of projects happen all the time in all different markets. Here are some tips for any business owners and entrepreneurs eyeing to convert properties into a retail store or restaurant with commercial renovations.
Refer to The Certificate of Occupancy
Foremost, you need to get the proper paperwork and licenses in place to complete your commercial renovations. When dealing with an existing property, you should refer to the certificate of occupancy. This document dictates what one can legally use the property for, and most municipalities provide this information through an online database. If the certificate does not permit the property to be used for a retail or restaurant space, you’re probably better off finding another property or location that does allow you to pursue your envisioned business.
Review the Structural Components
Reviewing the existing structural components of the property is critical to commercial renovations. Firstly, it lets you plan out how you can salvage and incorporate old aspects of the building into your new commercial space. Secondly, this step uncovers any issues with the infrastructure, plumbing, or electrical work you will need to address to bring your building up to current or local standards. Failing to do so will not only produce poor and potentially unsafe results, but you could find your commercial renovations halted by work-stop orders.
Is a Retail Store or Restaurant Realistic?
Now, just because a property can be used for a different commercial purpose doesn’t mean it’s a realistic idea or a good idea. Take time to contemplate if the existing property space is a good fit for your retail store or restaurant. For example, a too-small property may not have the space to outfit the building space with a kitchen or enough restrooms for a restaurant or cafe. Alternatively, a space too large may not be the most practical option if your retail business plans on selling boutique products or limited selections.
Assess the Building Facade
Don’t forget that the building facade is a customer’s first impression of your business. You’ll need to consider appropriate renovations to update the property exterior to reflect your new business interior. This can be trickier than it seems, especially when you need to consider neighborhood building codes or if the property is within a historic district with limitations on how much the exterior can be changed.
Work With Encore Construction
As a premier commercial general contractor, Encore Construction is proud to provide interior and exterior services in Baltimore, Maryland and beyond. We have an impeccable track record, an impressive portfolio, and an experienced team that is ready to tackle your next big project. Our results speak for themselves, and we’re proud of the work we continue to produce for our clients.
Our office is located in Annapolis, MD and we are happy to serve Baltimore, Bowie, Columbia, Rockville, Washington DC, Tysons Corner VA, Northern VA, and surrounding areas. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn for news and updates! Do you want to discuss your project with a member of our team? Visit our website, and call us at (410) 573-5050. We look forward to hearing from you!