Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Interior Build Outs

Posted on August 27, 2020 by bafcorp20

Business and facility owners experience change as the years progress and the economy evolves. After so much time, many find themselves in need of a brick and mortar, new location, or new look. Either way, in comes the commercial interior build-out. Continue reading to review some of the most frequently asked questions about interior build-outs, including how they can benefit your business’s overall success and where to get started with a trusted bid in Indianapolis.

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Commercial Interior Build-Out FAQS

What is a Commercial Interior Build-Out?

A commercial interior build-out can mislead business owners since they are often referred to as commercial tenant improvements (TI’s) or leaseholder improvements. Commercial tenant improvements and remodels are generally needed in almost all cases of a business needing new space since most commercial offices and units are not set up to meet the exact needs of a particular company. In fact, this is exactly what a commercial interior build-out is: a commercial construction remodel to an existing space to customize it structurally and culturally to the business’s unique needs.

Do Tenants or Landlords Pay for a Commercial Interior Build Out?

There is always some confusion with who pays for what when it comes to commercial tenant improvements and remodels. Generally, the landlord and tenant can choose how they want to arrange the financial liability for a commercial interior build-out. Among the possible arrangements, examples include:

✒ Rent Concessions – Landlord agrees to reduced rent, or no rent at all, for a select period of time, to cover the total cost of the project.

✒ Built-in Cost – Landlord believes the tenant will be an improvement to their building or facility, and decides to cover the entire cost of the interior build out.

✒ Reimbursement – If the landlord is paying for it all, they will either have the tenants pay and then reimburse them, or divide the cost of the project and include it in the total cost of the lease. This is referred to as a build-to-suit lease agreement.

✒ Square Footage Costs – Landlord agrees to pay to remodel a certain square footage, and the tenant covers the rest of the cost of the project.

Will My Business Benefit from an Interior Build Out?

There are many advantages to doing to a commercial interior build-out, whether you are an existing business that needs a facelift or modern technology applications, or a business just started out and in need of commercial space. A custom interior finish-out not only updates your business, making its operations more efficient and cost-effective, it increases staff morale and productivity. Accordingly, all of these effects increase your business’s revenue overtime.

How Do I Get a Bid for a Commercial Interior Build Out in Indianapolis?

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial construction general contracting and construction management in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors can help you design and build your interior build out, and offer a simple, streamlined process that meets all business objectives. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

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Vital Corporate Real Estate Leasing Tips for 2020

Posted on August 24, 2020 by bafcorp20

As a corporate company, whether just starting out or long-time established, one of the most critical decisions you will make will be renting office space. Not only are there several corporate real estate renting mistakes that can drastically impede the success of your company, office leasing is usually one of the highest expenses as well. For these reasons and more, it is important to do your research before finalizing any office space leases as a corporate tenant.

Continue reading to learn some of the top corporate real estate leasing tips you should consider and discuss with your commercial space planning and permitting consultants.

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When it is your duty to find a new location for your corporate office, be sure to keep these cost-saving tips in mind:

✅ See the Unit in Person

Especially with the current epidemic underway, many commercial brokers are doing business online. As a result, it is becoming more common for commercial proprietors to sign a lease for office space they have never actually seen in person. Although this is deemed acceptable by a large market of tenants, it can be a devastating mistake. Always view and tour a potential office space on-site, not just over the phone or via online listing.

✅ Rent the Right Amount of Space

When it comes to finding an office space, consider the Goldilocks rule. You want the right amount of space that is neither too small and nor too big. Not only can the wrong amount of office space hurt you financially, both short and long-term, it can also cause additionally risk to various aspects of running a business, such as accident liability, building codes, and more.

✅ Do Not Focus Solely on Cost

There is a lot more to renting office space responsibly than just your budget. By leading your search on a budget-focused agenda, you could be putting yourself at a disadvantage. Although budget is an important standard, there are other factors can determine the value of an office space, such as amenities, price per square foot, surrounding community traffic, and more.

✅ Probe the Surrounding Community

On the topic of the surrounding community, be sure to set your sights on other factors that influence an office space other than the actual location. Not only should you be looking at the office space in person, you should also be looking at the surrounding area. You will want to consider the average commercial rental rates, average annual income among residents, crime statistics, nearby businesses, neighboring competitors, and more.

✅ Read the Fine Print in Full

When it comes to leasing a new corporate office space, one of the most vital tasks is to read the contract in full. Commercial leases are much more complex, and require acute attention to detail and fine print. You will want to understand lease clauses, key dates and deadlines, tenant improvement allowances, and more. You should also hire a commercial real estate lawyer to translate any confusing parts of the lease to you.

Commercial Real Estate Space Planning and Permitting in Indianapolis, Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial space planning and permitting services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our expert space planning and design teams ensure all aspects of your commercial construction and post-occupancy business objectives are met in an ordered fashion, on time, and within budget. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Commercial Building Renovation Suggestions for Fall and Winter

Posted on August 20, 2020 by bafcorp20

Any experienced commercial property owner will tell you they’ve experienced troubles riding the learning curve of routine building maintenance. One of the most important lessons property owners say they’ve learned over the years is to tackle projects while they’re still small, and at the right time of year. This is the key to saving money and time in the long run when it comes to building repairs and renovations. In fact, there’s a lot more that goes into the care and preservation of a commercial building, all of which are tremendously important to keep up with all year long. Now that fall and winter are on the horizon, it is the perfect time to start assessing and organizing your seasonal commercial building maintenance needs, including any needed renovations or repairs.

Continue reading for the seasonal maintenance and renovation reminders you should be considering this time of year for your commercial building.

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Important Building Maintenance Advice

Each and every building is unique, and therefore requires varying methods and levels of care depending on the season. This means it is important for property owners to get onboard with the process of preserving their premises, year-round. Small commercial repairs and remodels are wise investments, and inevitable overtime, but you can avoid large-scale damages and prevent premature construction needs with a simple commercial building maintenance plan, and a little knowledge.

Start with these important seasonal commercial building maintenance and renovation reminders:

➲ Get Rid of Incandescent Bulbs

Replace all incandescent bulbs with LED (light emitting diode) or CFL (compact fluorescent light) bulbs before the cooler seasons arrive. Although a somewhat higher initial cost, LED lightbulbs and CFL lightbulbs have several benefits making them a great investment overall. Utility costs are instantaneously reduced as energy is saved, and they last more than double the life of standard incandescent bulbs. Also, put lights on an automatic system so that energy is not wasted. You may be interested in adding more natural lighting to your commercial space. If so, see our blog, “The Benefits of Natural Light in an Office Setting” to learn how it can promote cost-savings and staff productivity.

➲ Repair Broken or Faulty Windows ASAP

A broken window may not seem like an issue that needs immediate attention, but it does. This is especially true for commercial properties that are retail or provide a service to customers. Not only does a broken window immediately turn away new and potential clientele, it costs property owners money by the minute. This is because energy is wasted while conditioned air is lost, and unconditioned air enters. In fact, see our blog, “The Benefit of Store Front Window Maintenance” for additional helpful advice.

➲ Keep Water Dripping Overnight in Freezing Temperatures

Standing water in pipes can quickly freeze in low temperatures, but it requires even lower temperatures to freeze running water. In freezing temperatures, leave the water running overnight. Do not leave a faucet entirely open because this will only waste a lot of water and money. Instead, simply leave a delicate and light stream of water from a faucet to keep the flow moving throughout the night. The price of plumbing repairs for an entire building as a result of frozen pipes is not cheap. And it is never a quick fix.

➲ Pay Special Attention to Outdoor Maintenance

When winter comes, you need to shovel that snow. And when summer comes, you need to water the plants. And when that special time of year comes, you need to have all of your walkways and siding power washed. Outdoor upkeep of a commercial property is crucial if a building owner wants to preserve value, as well as, reduce onsite accidents, hazards, obstructions, and structural wear and tear. Don’t procrastinate when it comes to taking care of the exterior parts of your building and property. Many real estate owners neglect this duty of care and wind up needing remodeling or restoration services down the line. Remember, tackle small projects while they’re still small!

Reputable Commercial Building Renovation Contractors in Indianapolis

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial renovation and facility maintenance service in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Ascertaining the Need for ADA Compliance Upgrades in a Commercial Remodel

Posted on August 17, 2020 by bafcorp20

As a commercial proprietor considering a remodel or renovation for your property, you will need to also include a consideration for ADA compliance upgrades. Often times, such needs are overlooked in a commercial renovation project, which causes liability issues down the line, both legally and financially. It is important to always remain ADA compliant as a commercial building owner, and address such upgrades when it comes time to remodel or renovate.

Continue reading to learn when a commercial remodel might call for ADA compliancy upgrades, and where to get started with a trusted bid in Indianapolis.

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ADA Compliance for Commercial Real Estate

The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requires all commercial real estate owners to accommodate, and never discriminate against, the physically disabled on their premises. This is a federal civil rights law that applies to all public commercial buildings and businesses in the United States. Sometimes, a commercial remodeling project can prompt certain needs for ADA compliancy improvements. You see, Title III of the Americans With Disabilities Act obliges public and commercial properties to meet their minimum standards for accessibility. See our blog, “ADA Compliant Wheelchair Accessibility Options for Commercial Properties” to learn more.

When ADA Compliant Improvements are Necessary During a Commercial Remodel

Does your building have a primary function space? This is the area of your property where the majority of relevant business operations take place. Such spaces can include a wide range of areas, both interior and exterior. Examples include lobbies, auditoriums, cafes, bathrooms, entry ways, exits, and more. When preparing to initiate a remodel of a primary function space, such as a lobby or office, you will likely need to adjust your plans to accommodate ADA guidelines. If any barriers to accessibility exist after developing a remodeling plan, such barriers must be redesigned in order for the property to be ADA compliant.

Here are some examples of areas that might need to be addressed in a commercial remodel:

♿ Door Frame Widths
♿ Water Fountain Heights
♿ Hand Railings and Grab Bars
♿ Handicap Ramps
♿ Automatic Doors
♿ Doors With Accessible Buttons
♿ Accessible Parking
♿ ADA Bathrooms and Break Rooms

Keeping a commercial property ADA compliant is not a one-and-done project, but rather, and ongoing initiative as guidelines and technologies evolve in the construction and building industry. Enlist the advice of a trusted and esteemed Indianapolis commercial general contractor to learn exactly which upgrades your property might require now, and how to accommodate them into your remodeling budget.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting You Can Trust

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

The Importance of Utility Mapping for Commercial Construction Work

Posted on August 14, 2020 by bafcorp20

What is utility mapping? It is a way to view and organize the structures and system setups beneath the ground of your commercial construction site. This part of the commercial planning and build process is critical to the overall success of the project, regardless of size or scope. As a business owner or proprietor preparing to build a new commercial property, you need to familiarize yourself with the process and purpose of utility mapping to remain ahead of the curve at all times.

Continue reading to learn more about commercial construction utility mapping, and where to get the best general contractor advice near you.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contractors 317-253-0531

Commercial Utility Mapping Basics

Just because you cannot see it doesn’t mean that it is not there. This generalized platitude happens to apply to the commercial construction industry. Just because your project site does not appear to have any structures or impediments delaying the progress of work, it doesn’t mean you are in the clear to break ground.

It is vital to any and every commercial construction project to locate, identify, and map out the infrastructure that lies beneath the work site. This will ensure a streamlined construction agenda, and prevent unanticipated setbacks and superfluous costs. Most importantly, it protects workers and the surrounding community from dangerous accidents and hazards.

Locating and Identifying What’s Underground

As mentioned, a work site might be clear on top, but below the ground is guaranteed to have some sort of infrastructure. From electric and telecom cables, to gas mains, water mains, pipelines, sewers, and more, the possibilities are plentiful, and require forethought from a general contracting perspective.

To achieve proper utility mapping, a commercial construction team must retain the proper technologies, such as ground-penetrating radar. However, these are not always enough to develop an accurate underground map. Often times, construction managers have to rely on town records, building records, and similar resources to get a clear idea of what’s actually below ground.

Expert Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services in Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction management services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our commercial general contracting team provides commercial construction services from the ground, up. We offer everything from space planning and design, to preconstruction, design build (DB), facility maintenance, and more. If you are interested in learning more about renewable energy applications for your business, we’ll be happy to schedule a consultation to review all your options. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

What is a Mixed Use Space in Commercial Real Estate?

Posted on August 11, 2020 by bafcorp20

In today’s commercial real estate world, the options for space planning and design build are continuing to evolve. One such solution that many proprietors are trending towards, both small scale and large scale, is mixed use commercial space. Continue reading to learn what a mixed-use space is, what it can offer building owners in terms of benefits, and how to incorporate such space planning into your commercial build or remodel.

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Mixed Use Commercial Buildings

Mixed use commercial buildings are all the rage in the current commercial real estate construction industry. These are buildings that are specifically constructed to serve multiple applications, rather than just one. For instance, a standard commercial space for a restaurant is generally built to be solely a restaurant. This means it would be designed to have certain kitchen appliances, utility setups, and several other industry-specific features and amenities. Similarly, an office building is generally built to serve as a space for offices and business operations.

Oppositely, mixed-use spaces are typically designed and built to serve more than one application, such as retail and office space combined in one. There are several benefits to this type of commercial construction, which is why it is gaining such popularity at such speeds. Some mixed used spaces are entire buildings, while others are spaces within buildings. Either way, commercial business owners who are looking to build or design a space should know a few things about mixed-use spaces before coming to a final construction decision.

What You Need to Know as a Business Owner

Single-use districts in metro and city areas are becoming more of a thing of the past. During the day they are steady with the traffic of consumers, employees, and more. But at night, they clear out as businesses close and everyone goes home or to an entertainment-based district of the city. This pattern is beginning to feel like an inefficient use of space to many commercial real estate leaders. As a solution, mixed-use construction and space planning is being progressively introduced into the commercial real estate world.

What a Mixed-Use Building Might Look Like

A modern mixed-use building might have retail and restaurant stores on the ground level leading out to the streets and sidewalks, offices and corporate tenants in the mid-levels, and apartments and residential living at the top levels. This commercial building serves multiple functions, delivering full-optimization for building owners and leasers. Other mixed-use commercial buildings might combine retail stores, hotels, and condos all in one. There are infinite design possibilities with mixed-use commercial construction and space planning, all of which offer unique advantages in terms of a business’s function, efficiency, cost-savings, and overall success.

How to Learn More About Mixed-Use Commercial Space Planning

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial space planning and construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors are certified specialists who are well-versed in mixed-use space planning and construction. Whether you are launching, expanding, renovating, or relocating an office or professional space, our commercial construction and building contractors have the qualified expertise, first-class resources, and latest technologies to support your business’s objectives and generate long-term value. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial clients in Central Indiana.

Typical Maintenance and Repair Requirements for a Commercial Building

Posted on August 7, 2020 by bafcorp20

Commercial real estate is a significant investment for any proper owner. It requires a large amount of care, dedication, and responsibility to maintain a well-finished commercial building. Not only does a commercial building provide an area for companies to conduct their business; it can also be a hub for consumers. If consumers are invited into your commercial property, will they be impressed? Will they feel comfortable? Does the appearance of your property speak to the heart of its abilities? Looks can say it all, however, there is more to commercial property care than cleaning and aesthetic upkeep. Maintenance and repair are vital steps in routine building care.

Continue reading to learn more recommended maintenance requirements of commercial properties and complexes, and when it might be time to renovate or remodel.

Indianapolis Commercial Building Renovations and Facility Maintenance 317-253-0531

Routine Maintenance and Repair for Commercial Buildings

So, what kind of maintenance and repair can a commercial building owner expect to prepare themselves for? The answer is an extensive amount of maintenance. Once a project is complete and a property is built, there is still a need for ongoing, specialized maintenance. Facility maintenance services sustain all systems and structures within a building. There are so many aspects of a building that require specialized services, such as HVAC systems, commercial kitchens, master plumbing, dry wall, electrical work, exterior building maintenance, roof repair, and much more.

Furthermore, there are various city and building codes, warranty codes, and even permitting that must also be managed and facilitated properly on a commercial scale. To achieve this multivariate approach to proper building maintenance, a commercial proprietor needs a team of contractors who are fully-equipped, trained, and staffed for the job. A commercial construction company can set up a program, or remain available, to implement specialized maintenance work that cannot be performed by in-house custodial and day-porter staffs, such as electrician work, sign repair, and more.

Facility Maintenance Services

A professional Indiana facility management company retains certified staffs that are experienced in all areas of construction. They are career industry professionals who have formal educational courses, training programs, and rigorous testing for each field of construction and building expertise. You never know what might need attention within your commercial property, so outsourcing a commercial facility management company can protect you against unanticipated, expensive repairs and replacements, while also maintaining cost-efficiency and an overall focus on your business’s objectives.

Commercial Remodeling is Usually Inevitable

Even with the most solid facility maintenance plan in place, at some point in time a commercial building or property will require some renovations. Consider remodeling your commercial space if you serve clients or guests at your location There are infinite benefits of doing so, including staying up-to-date on current trends among consumers, as well as, technological options and innovative advancements on the market.

Additionally, remodeling your business can improve staff productivity, consumer satisfaction, and your overall profit margins. As for commercial properties that do not serve clients at their location, but rather, have staffs or tenants, a renovation will always be necessary to protect structural integrity, manage energy efficiency, and maintain a functional operation. See our blog, “Will a Remodel Improve My Business?” to learn more benefits of renovating your commercial property.

Where to Find a Facility Maintenance Company in Indianapolis, Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted facility maintenance and commercial remodeling services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Do I Need a Construction Manager for My Commercial Remodel?

Posted on August 3, 2020 by bafcorp20

When you are preparing to have a new commercial build, a construction manager is undeniably essential. But what about a commercial remodel to an existing space? Is a construction management service necessary or worthwhile then? Continue reading to learn exactly what a construction manager does, and gain a better understanding of their value in terms of an upcoming commercial remodeling project.

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Commercial Construction Management Services

A commercial construction manager has a very clear cut role. They are in charge of planning and overseeing all aspects of a commercial construction project, from inception to completion. Now although their role is easily defined, it is not that simple. There are several roles and responsibilities a commercial construction manager takes on as they plan and oversee a project. Some primary duties in the role of a commercial construction manager include lease reviews, space planning and permitting, conceptual estimating, budget analysis, 3D modeling, scheduling, timeline management, cost management, general contractor hiring, subcontractor hiring, value engineering, and overall quality control and organization.

What You Need to Know About Managing a Commercial Remodel

Although a commercial remodel is not the same as a new build or development in terms of size and scope, it is still a construction project that will require adept management. A well-managed commercial remodel is more cost-effective, and supports higher quality results that stand the test of time. A commercial construction manager can ensure all of your business objectives are met, including all aspects of your remodel, as well as, post facility maintenance.

Regardless of size or scope, any type of commercial construction work, whether a basic remodel or full-blown renovation, you will have better success and results with a commercial construction management company on your team. See our blog, “What to Expect From Commercial Construction Management Service” to learn more benefits of outsourcing a construction manager for your needed renovation or remodel.

Indianapolis Commercial Construction Managers at Your Service

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction management in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors deliver a streamlined construction process that meets all defined engineering and design specifications, procurement, schedules, and budgets for your commercial office space or business. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.