A range of types of business premises is available; you should consider which would be most suitable for your business.
Industrial unit
Generally large and not especially cheap, therefore mostly used by existing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are looking to expand.
There are a number of factors to take into account when appraising potential premises, some of which are covered here. The importance or relevance of any one aspect will depend on the type and nature of your business; a manufacturing business, for example, will have very different needs and priorities from a retail business. Use your common sense when appraising premises and try not to get too carried away with the excitement of signing the lease and putting your name above the door; this is arguably the most important, most costly decision you will make during your start-up activity and it is important that you get it right.
Buying - Pros:
• Generally appreciates as an asset, and so increases the value of the business over time.
• Avoids unpredictable rent increases.
• Provides security.
Buying – Cons:
• A large amount of capital is needed.
• Can be substantial security against which to borrow.
• Mortgage payments may be high.
• Ties up cash that could be used elsewhere in the business.
• Interest rates may go up.
• Attracts capital gains tax on sale.
Equipping premises
The start-up stage of equipping your premises is very exciting; it shows that all your meticulous plans are translating into reality and that your business is actually taking shape. It is very easy to get carried away and to insist on everything you might conceivably require, all brand spanking new. However, as with everything else, careful consideration is required.
What do you need?
Make a list, but challenge what gets included on it. It may be prudent to wait before purchasing some things you would ultimately like to have.
It is a good idea to discuss your requirements with a registered insurance broker. As he or she is likely to receive commission on any sales made, the time and advice given to you should be free of charge.
Public liability
Provides protection against claims brought by people other than employees (whose claims are covered by Employer’s liability insurance). The policy should cover bodily injury, loss or damage to property brought about by the operation of your business, and also any legal costs that might be incurred while defending against such claims.
Working from home used to be a complicated affair – whether you were a home-based business or a homeworker for a large company, it often involved reams of paper, boxes and files, not always having the correct information to hand and difficulties with customers and colleagues contacting you.
Ben and Rosemary Scrimgeour of The Building Workshop talk about the importance of a good workspace when first starting out in business. Ben and Rosemary won a Shell LiveWIRE Grand Ideas Award in February 2010.
A quick guide to setting up and fitting out a shop on a shoestring budget.
