How to Prepare Your Commercial Property for Lease: A Complete Landlord Checklist

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To ensure the commercial property is presented in the best professional condition for marketing, photography, videography, and tenant showings, the Landlord should complete the items below. This detailed checklist reflects standard best practices for commercial real estate preparation.

1. Documentation, Records & Confirmations

Please request the following documents from your real estate lawyer or previous seller’s lawyer:

  • Survey report (SRPR)

  • Architectural drawings or building plans

  • Floor plan of the property

  • Any past building permits or renovation permits related to the property

  • Occupancy certificate, if applicable

  • Zoning confirmation or related city approvals already obtained during the purchase

These documents support zoning verification, tenant screening, and marketing materials.

2. Utilities, Mechanical, and System Verification

2.1 Water Meter Verification

  • Confirm whether the for-lease property has a dedicated water meter.

  • If it does not:

    • Confirm how water usage is billed (shared meter, landlord-paid, or proportionate share).

    • Provide any available utility bills for reference.

2.2 Hydro (Electrical) Meter Verification

  • Confirm whether the for-lease property has a separate hydro meter.

  • If shared:

    • Identify where the shared meter is located.

    • Confirm how hydro charges have historically been allocated.

2.3 Gas Meter (If Applicable)

  • Confirm whether gas is used in the building.

  • If so, verify if the for-lease property has a separate gas meter.

2.4 HVAC & Mechanical Systems

  • Confirm whether the for-lease property has its own heating/cooling unit or if the system is shared.

  • If individual:

    • Arrange for a quick inspection to ensure the unit is operational.

  • Replace air filters if needed for better presentation and air quality.

2.5 Fire Code & Safety Items

  • Confirm presence of:

    • Smoke detectors

    • Carbon monoxide detectors (if required)

    • Fire extinguishers

  • Ensure that all required safety equipment is functioning and visible.

3. Physical Property Preparation

3.1 Clearing & Decluttering the for-lease property

Before photography:

  • Remove all furniture, equipment, belongings, and leftover materials.

  • Dispose of trash, old signage, posters, and unused inventory.

  • Remove any abandoned construction materials or tools.

  • Ensure all storage areas, closets, and back rooms are empty and accessible.

3.2 Deep Cleaning

Prepare the for-lease property for professional-level presentation:

  • Sweep and mop all flooring (tile, laminate, carpet, etc.).

  • Clean baseboards, walls, and corners.

  • Wash all windows and glass (inside and outside if possible).

  • Clean window sills, ledges, and frames.

  • Clean washroom thoroughly (sink, toilet, mirror, floor).

  • Sanitize any kitchenette area or service sink.

  • Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, and vents.

  • Remove cobwebs from corners and ceilings.

  • Clean the entry door and surrounding wall area.

3.3 Lighting & Electrical Checks

  • Replace all burnt-out bulbs.

  • Ensure all light switches and outlets function properly.

  • Use consistent bulb temperatures for visual appeal (recommended: “warm white” or “daylight”).

  • Ensure the for-lease property is fully lit for photography.

3.4 Minor Repairs

  • Patch and repaint small wall holes or scratches.

  • Tighten loose door handles or cabinet hinges.

  • Repair or replace damaged ceiling tiles, if any.

  • Ensure windows open and close properly.

  • Confirm the main entry door locks smoothly.

4. Exterior Preparation (If Applicable to the for-lease property Access)

4.1 Entrance & Storefront

  • Clean the entrance glass door thoroughly.

  • Remove old stickers, decals, or tape from windows.

  • Sweep the exterior walkway leading to the for-lease property.

  • Ensure exterior lighting works (if within landlord responsibility).

  • Trim any small landscaping elements obstructing the entrance.

4.2 Parking / Access Notes

  • Confirm availability and marking of parking spots for tenant use.

  • Clean designated parking areas if visibly dirty.

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5. Administrative & Listing Preparation

5.1 Keys, Access & Security

  • Provide the listing agent with:

    • One working set of keys to the for-lease property

    • Any fobs or electronic access cards

    • Alarm code or disarm instructions (if applicable)

  • Confirm which entrance(s) will be used for showings.

5.2 Building Rules / Tenant Guidelines

Please gather and provide:

  • Any building rules, policies, or quiet hours

  • Waste disposal instructions

  • Any maintenance responsibilities assigned to the for-lease commercial property

  • Any restrictions on commercial signage or exterior modifications

6. Final Pre-Photography Checks

Once all cleaning and preparation are complete, please confirm the following before the photographer and videographer arrive:

✓ The for-lease property is fully empty and clutter-free
✓ All lights are functional and turned on
✓ All windows are clean and open blinds allow natural light
✓ Floors and surfaces are clean
✓ Washroom/Kitchenette is spotless
✓ Entrance glass is spotless
✓ No personal items, tools, or garbage remain
✓ Temperature/airflow is comfortable
✓ Exterior access is clean and tidy

After confirmation, I will schedule professional photography and videography at the earliest convenience. Click here to see Get Your Property Ready for Photos and Videos.

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