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Hard Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Hard costs refer to the direct, tangible expenses associated with the physical construction and alteration of a leased space. \u200bHard costs are generally accepted, as they are the result of improvements that will be left behind once the tenant leaves, which could be a direct benefit to the landlord. These costs often include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Demolition and removal of existing structures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Construction of new walls or partitions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Electrical wiring and lighting fixtures installation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Plumbing work, including new fixtures or reconfiguration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Flooring installation or replacement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ceiling repairs or modifications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Painting and wall finishes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system upgrades.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Installation of doors and windows.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Built-in cabinetry and custom shelving.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Soft Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Soft costs are the indirect expenses not directly tied to physical construction, but essential for project completion and compliance. Soft costs may not be as directly beneficial to the Landlord, but are a necessary part of the build-out process (such as a construction management fee). These costs often include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Architectural and design fees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Engineering consultation fees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Legal expenses, including lease review and negotiation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Permitting and licensing costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Project management and oversight fees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Environmental assessments or studies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Insurance during the construction phase.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Utility setup or transfer fees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Marketing or branding expenses related to the space.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Technology and software costs for design and project management.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nWhat Does TI Not Cover?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Landlords are typically hesitant to allocate tenant improvement (TI) allowances for expenses that are highly specific to a tenant’s individual business needs, especially if these improvements do not add lasting value to the property. This includes enhancements that are not permanent or do not appeal to future tenants, as they do not offer a long-term benefit to the landlord. However, in certain cases to attract and retain tenants, landlords may agree to use a small portion of the TI allowance for such expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Examples of Costs Generally Not Covered by TI:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Personalized or Branded Furniture<\/strong>: Customized furniture that reflects the tenant’s brand or aesthetic.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Specialized Electronic Equipment<\/strong>: Specific tech devices unique to the tenant’s operations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Custom Data Cabling:<\/strong> Unique data and communication wiring that isn’t standard for the building.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Moving Expenses<\/strong>: Costs associated with relocating the tenant’s business to the property.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Unique Decor and Art<\/strong>: Personalized decorations or art pieces that reflect the tenant’s brand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Temporary Structures<\/strong>: Any non-permanent installations that are specific to the tenant’s use.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Business-Specific Appliances:<\/strong> Equipment unique to the tenant\u2019s industry or operational needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Exterior and Interior Signage<\/strong>: Signage that specifically advertises or brands the tenant’s business.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Custom IT Infrastructure<\/strong>: Proprietary technology setups that aren\u2019t standard for other tenants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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