Find out about hidden costs
Very few spaces are turnkey ready. Be sure to consider costs like renovation, decorating, IT system upgrades, and so on.
Ask about ADA Compliance
Landlords are required to make public restrooms and ground-floor entrances/exits accessible, or give you notice if the space may not be ADA compliant. Other aspects of ADA compliance will be your responsibility, and you should consult with a CASp (Certified Access Specialist) to help determine the cost of any required improvements.
Learn more about accessibility for business.
Negotiate the lease
Research similar sites in the neighborhood so you can show your landlord the market costs of nearby sites. Review multiple sites to know more about the market. This will help you negotiate the lease in your favor.
If you'd like help reviewing your lease, contact the Office of Small Business by emailing sfosb@sfgov.org
Include contingencies
When negotiating a lease, make sure it is flexible enough, or specifically allows for delays in case it takes longer than expected to obtain your permits.
Understand the lease clauses
Read through all the important clauses in your lease, including how rent is calculated and quoted, the term of the lease, the start date of the lease, and what happens if the landlord decides to sell the property. Understand how communication with the landlord will work, like how you'll contact them when a repair is needed or when it's time to renew your option.
Plan an exit strategy
If you can, negotiate a lease that allows you to transfer your business to a new owner, just in case something happens to cause your business to fail. The clause that allows you to sell your business is called an assignment clause.