Whether you’re experiencing an internal move or moving to new location, for many, it’s a daunting experience. They say that an office move is often one of the biggest changes a business will endure – so no pressure! This simple introduction to a checklist includes a simple break down of topics you need to consider – . We believe that your move should be an exciting venture, so have broken down a number of steps for you, but as always its great to have our CMR Relocations manchester office contact you and discuss your move in more detail with that human touch!
First things first – get organised. There are a few things that need to be discussed and agreed before you dive too deep into the move. Here’s a list of all the ‘nitty-gritty’ items that will need immediate attention:
- □ Time frame:
Target dates should be set for key events/tasks – deciding on location, finding a new premises, move start date, move-in date. These should be reviewed as required. - □ Current Premises:
To avoid any financial penalties, exiting your current premises should be done in accordance with the terms of your lease. You should consider the lease end date, notice period, form of notice and any possible dilapidation works. - □ Stakeholders Engagement:
No one should be kept in the dark during the move –it’s important that all parties are updated with any changes that may affect them. Ensure that you contact the staff, unions, board members and parent company.
Create an office move TEAM
- Creating an office move team will not only share the responsibilities, but is also a great way to get employees involved in the move. Appoint a Project Leader that has authority to make decisions. The project leader is to coordinate all phases of the office move – from management, delegating the team with roles and assigning responsibilities. Ideally, the team should include a representative from each department.
Setting the BUDGET
Investing in a relocation project is a major financial step for any business – and there are a lot of things for you to consider. Follow these ‘things to consider’ and ‘hint and tips’ lists below to make your budget accurate, realistic and manageable.
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
- □ The rental deposit of the new premises.
- □ Dilapidation and repair costs of existing office
- □ Legal requirements:
Planning permission
Environmental regulations
Safe disposal of all old equipment / furniture / general site rubble - Ongoing occupancy costs:
- Insurance
Maintenance
Service charges
Water
Energy
Business rates & Rent - □ IT and Telecom systems – cabling / installation / purchase of new equipment.
- □ Office space planning, design and fit-out costs.
- □ General electrical and plumbing works.
- □ Air Conditioning system – is it up to regulations?
- □ New furniture.
- □ Additional storage solutions during the move.
- □ HR: Recruitment / possible redundancy / relocation.
- □ Marketing collateral (change of address)
- □ Post / Mail redirection
Again, this highlights some of the topics when moving / relocating or even expanding offices, CMR Relocation have experience in helping all sizes of organisations move or relocate offices…
