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Tenants and occupiers

How to lease office space in Canada

Move from headcount and work patterns to shortlist, tour, proposal and controlled lease diligence.

For Tenants and occupiers

Move from headcount and work patterns to shortlist, tour, proposal and controlled lease diligence.

Start with the operating brief

Document current headcount, planned growth, attendance patterns, client visits, privacy needs and special rooms before choosing a location or building.

Compare one area standard

Ask whether quoted areas are usable, rentable or another measurement. Keep the measurement standard and add-on factor visible when comparing options.

Model the full occupancy cost

Combine net rent, additional rent, utilities, parking, furniture, technology, moving costs and tenant capital on one term timeline.

Tour against the requirement

Score access, daylight, noise, HVAC hours, security, washrooms, elevators, loading, parking and expansion options against the same brief.

Control diligence and documents

Confirm permitted use, building rules, operating-cost rights, restoration obligations, insurance, accessibility and professional reviews before commitment.

Build the live decision file

Use this framework to identify questions and evidence. Confirm legal, accounting, tax, engineering, environmental, accessibility and brokerage matters with qualified professionals where they affect the decision.