A Step-By-Step Guide on Tenant Improvements
how to Survive your First Time Building
Brokers: share this with your clients! This guide was written specifically for tenants who feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin. It breaks down the tenant improvement (TI) process step-by-step in plain language—so you can walk through your buildout process with confidence and clarity.
Start here
if you’re reading this, you should have a space or two in mind that you think could be ideal for your business. if not, call your broker and tell them to set up some tours. With one space in mind at a time, Click each button below to flow through the TI process.
the First thing to note is, Not all commercial spaces are created equal. what kind of space are you working with?
Pro Tip: Have your contractor walk the space with you to identify what needs to be done.
raw, unfinished space. typically just exterior walls, concrete slab, and roof.
Semi-finished space that includes basic components like drywall, ceilings, HVAC, and restrooms.
A previously built-out space that was occupied by a former tenant.
Exciting, We’re starting from scratch with Grey Shell
For a grey shell space, you will need ARCHITECTURAL, mechanical, plumbing and electrical plans. Once yOu have these, you are ready to submit them to the building department.
Great, We’re starting with the basics: Vanilla Shell
For a vanilla shell space, you will need ARCHITECTURAL, mechanical, plumbing and electrical plans. Once yOu have these, you are ready to submit them to the building department.
Nice, a Second-Gen with good bones…hopefully
For a Second-Gen space, you may or may not need ARCHITECTURAL, mechanical, plumbing and electrical plans.
I’m only Making cosmetic changes…paint, flooring, non-fixed furnishings
I’m adding, removing, modifying, or making changes that impact, walls, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or life safety systems
