Key steps to building commercial premises

Commercial buildings come in myriad shapes and sizes. From a high-tech warehouse and distribution centre to a boutique real estate agency, your needs are as specialised as your business.

So from inception to completion, what is the process for getting commercial premises designed, built and delivered?

Step 1: A conversation

A meeting between client and builder is often convened to discuss the type of commercial premises the client has in mind.

"The first meeting is to get an idea of the client's needs," says Niklas Kokotovich, director of Malko Constructions. "We discuss what the building is for and how it will be used."

Step 2: Project parameters 

With that knowledge, Niklas says a builder then prepares a 'construction brief' for the commercial premises - a document outlining the parameters of the project.

"It's less a quote and more a document that establishes guidelines for design and construction," he says.

"For example, we'll formalise that the client needs an office that houses 25 staff, needs four secure offices and an open-plan area for 'X' number of people. We'll also tell the client how we see the construction working."

Step 3: Design approval

When the client and builder have agreed on the scope of works, Niklas say the builder will then engage an architect to start the design process.

"Then we need to get those drawings signed off by the council," he says. "In the meantime we'll go through the processes of fire safety, egress and the construction phases, then give the client a document explaining everything that needs to happen."

Step 4: Design and price

When a client has agreed to the grand plan, Niklas says the designs are finished, signed off and the builder finalises the price.

"There may be some negotiation at this point about aspects of the project, materials and other adjustments for cost. But when we reach agreement, we go back to council for final approval."

Step 5: Construction

While the construction phase is the builder's area of expertise, the client should get regular progress reports.

"We hold project meetings, generally once a week or fortnight," says Niklas. "We discuss how the job is running according to timelines, what's been completed and what's happening in the week ahead."

Niklas points out that in commercial construction work, clients often have people to report to. These meetings help keep them and their superiors up to date. 

Step 6: Handover

As the name suggests, the builder gives you the key to the front door. It is not uncommon for there to be some ongoing rectification works or follow-up site meetings to discuss building performance.

Phone a commercial builder today to find out how they can deliver a more efficient, purpose-built workplace for your business.