The workplace real estate checklist: Finding the perfect building
The good news is your company is growing! The bad news? You might need to upgrade to a bigger office sooner rather than later. As you begin your quest to find a new workplace, there are a few important questions to ask and topics you need to consider.
Not only do you need to find a building in the right location—you also need to find a space with the right features to meet your needs. You’ll need to explore the building’s security options, front desk operations, restroom and shower capabilities, and sustainability factors.
We put our thinking hats on and compiled the ultimate Workplace Real Estate Checklist, based on years of experience from Flash Coughlin, Envoy’s Head of Workplace. Here is a sneak peek of the checklist, focused on finding a building with the right offerings:
Sustainability
The U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED rating system serves as a roadmap and project management tool to achieve sustainable, high-performance green buildings. The four LEED certification level designations are Platinum, Gold, Silver and Certified. These levels are determined by water use, energy metering and performance, recycle storage, air quality, pollution prevention, and more.
If you’re looking for a new workplace in California, your building should be Title 24 compliant. These standards are designed to make sure new and existing buildings achieve energy efficiency and preserve outdoor and indoor environmental quality. You should also look for little ways your building can protect the environment. Look for a space that has a bike room, robust recycle and compost options, solar panels, and electric car charging stations.
Showers
While showers may feel like a ‘nice to have’ amenity, the reality is showers are becoming a highly requested feature by employees. Many people who work for your company are fairly active, choosing to bike, skate, or run to the office. Some even prefer a mid-day jog or workout to get the creative juices flowing. In-office showers are the perfect gift for employees on the go.
Front desk operation
If you’re considering a multi-tenant building, look into how the front desk operates and whether they're using a multi-tenant visitor management system. Find out who is responsible for greeting guests when they first enter the building and what their hours of operation are. They may be responsible for giving employees and visitors access to your office, so you want to make sure they can create a great experience in a short amount of time.
Security
Similar to a multi-tenant building’s front desk operations, you need to look into the building’s security. This involves both security technology and security personnel. Is there a designated security team dedicated to keeping your office and employees safe? What hours do they patrol and what is their process for emergencies and intruders? You should also check for security equipment like turnstiles, cameras, and access control.
Gender-neutral restrooms
Everybody in your company should be able to use the restrooms in your office, regardless of gender expression or identity. To make this a reality, consider adding all-gender, single-stall restrooms. This provides a non-binary restroom option for employees and visitors alike to self-select and reduces the chances of discrimination and harassment. Gender-neutral restrooms contribute to an inclusive and positive workplace experience.
Now that you know what to consider when looking for the right building, have you thought about electrical wiring, public transportation, emergency systems, elevators, and signage opportunities?
Download to receive an interactive version of the Workplace Real Estate Checklist that you can check off yourself and track your progress. We’ll also send you a PDF version to print out and take with you to your next walkthrough. Best of luck with your search.