Tenant Improvement
Tenant improvement builds out or modifies leased commercial space to suit a specific tenant, covering partitions, finishes, lighting, HVAC, and systems. It is coordinated with the landlord and lease terms and is priced per project.
How tenant improvement is done
- Review the lease and improvement allowance
- Design the space plan and secure permits
- Demolish and reconfigure partitions
- Update mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
- Install finishes, lighting, and fixtures
- Final inspection and occupancy
What homeowners should know
- Understand your tenant improvement allowance and what it covers
- Coordinate scope and approvals with the landlord early
- Confirm the schedule fits your lease commencement
- Ask about after-hours work in occupied buildings
- Clarify who owns improvements at lease end
Permits, timelines & things to consider
- Commercial permits and inspections are required
- Lease terms and TI allowances shape budget and scope; priced per project
- Building codes for commercial occupancy apply, including accessibility
- Coordination with landlord and building management is essential
- Existing building systems may limit or add cost
Frequently asked questions
What is a tenant improvement allowance?
It is a sum the landlord contributes toward building out the space, defined in the lease; costs beyond it are the tenant's responsibility.
Who handles permits for a TI project?
The contractor typically pulls commercial permits, but coordination with the landlord and building management is required throughout.
How long does a tenant improvement take?
It varies with scope and permitting, from a few weeks for cosmetic work to several months for major reconfiguration; pricing is per project.