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.
* What sort of communication options are provided e.g. phone lines for telephones and internet connection. Choosing a good internet connection depends on what you use the internet for and what bandwidth you need. Use this site to compare broadband service.
If you are an SME and/or on a limited budget you might consider looking at renting a serviced office for flexibility and value.