Owners of businesses, regardless of type, will need premises of some kind. It may be that they can work from home in a spare room or garage (some say the kitchen table!!). Others may need a shop, office, workshop or warehouse, but a decision will have to be made as to where to locate the business.

Many things need to be considered when making a decision on from which type of premises to operate your business. Some facilities are essential, others desirable but not quite so important.

The essential requirements are: -

- Affordability.
- Location.
- Size.
- Services.
- Security of tenure.
- Accessibility.
- Security.

Let us take these requirements individually.

Affordability - If the building is ideal but the rent, rates, service charges or other charges are too high it is pointless even considering it. Stay within your budget.

Location - is important, a good building that would be ideal for your purpose but a difficult location will not encourage customers to visit you. The same point can be made about run down or seedy locations.

Size - is very important. If the building is too large, forget it as you will be paying rent and rates for space that you do not need. But do not settle for premises that are too small and always consider business development and expansion as your business progresses.

The availability of services - This is very important. Each business will have its own requirements such as gas, 3 phase electricity, heating, ventilation and other specialised services. The basic services that most businesses need such as water, electricity, toilet facilities, telephone, waste disposal, postal services etc. should always be available when making your decision.

Security of tenure - This depends on whether you intend to purchase a property or lease the premises. If you are in the fortunate position of being able to purchase premises consult your solicitor to discuss and finalise details. If you are leasing, it is certainly advisable to obtain professional advice from a solicitor. Make sure that you explain fully your requirements to the lessor and that the lessor's conditions and restrictions are explained to you. Try not to have any grey areas or ambiguous clauses in your lease.

Accessibility - This will vary greatly according to the type of business being operated. If customers are to attend the premises then obviously easy access is necessary. Other considerations include car parking, handling of customer purchases and the mandatory compliance with Government Regulations. Your accessibility should not present any restrictions or difficulties that will affect your efficiency.

Security - Unfortunately a very necessary and important requirement for business today. All businesses will differ with their requirements for efficient security but whatever those requirements are deal with them as comprehensively as you can. When studying your security requirements it is advisable to examine the safety precautions which you need to take to comply with current legislation that affects your employees and your customers. This legislation is so complex that it is advisable to obtain definitive details from the various departments such as the Health and Safety Executive, the Fire Services, or any other relevant body that is involved in the regulation of your business. One other point to stress whilst on this subject is for you to make absolutely sure that your insurance cover is adequate and that your insurer is totally aware of all aspects of your business and the risks involved.

Some of the desirable, but not essential requirements can be added whilst the business is running. If improvements to the building will add to its value and you are leasing the property check if the Landlord will give a contribution towards the cost of the improvements. Never fail to keep the Landlord advised of your business development and if you wish to make alterations to his property explain to him why and obtain his permission. Making building changes without permission and agreement may prove to be very unfortunate and costly.

Smart premises, well presented and with easy access attract and encourage customers. So make every effort to make your building and business a prominent asset.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Small Business