Conventional, non-serviced offices, can offer certain advantages over serviced offices: but generally only for larger-sized businesses who are confident of their growth over the next three years. Whilst the initial capital cost is larger a non-serviced office is often less costly to maintain on a monthly basis, compared to a serviced office.
Some types of company do not need much in the way of customer-interface or the additional services that a serviced office can offer, such as meeting rooms and conference rooms. It is likely that such companies will find non-serviced offices more cost effective, provided favourable lease arrangements can be found.
Important questions to ask before signing any lease agreement.....
* What is the square footage of the office? What's the loss factor? What is the rent per square foot?
* Will water and electric be individually metered? That's the fairest, since you are charged only for what you use.
* Does the building provide a cleaning service? If so, how frequently does it operate.
* Are windows washed? Again, if so, how frequently.
* Who changes light bulbs? Who makes minor repairs? If minor repairs are made by the building, what is covered?
* Office maintenance. Does the building maintain heating and air conditioning systems? Is maintenance provided without additional cost?
* What kind of interior decor will provided, if any. For example... carpeting, wall papering etc..
* Who owns the office fixtures like bookcases or lighting on the walls or ceiling once installed? Often, ownership goes to the landlord regardless of who purchased them.
If you are an SME and/or on a limited budget you might consider looking at renting a serviced office for flexibility and value.