Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Starting a Commercial Building Project
- OMNIA Building Consultants
- Apr 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 16
Starting a commercial building project; whether a new build, fit-out, or major refurbishment, is a big investment with even bigger consequences if something goes wrong.
Too often, clients dive in with enthusiasm but overlook critical early-stage questions that can make or break the project. To help you start smart, we’ve compiled a checklist of the 10 essential questions every investor, developer, or property owner should ask before breaking ground.
Use this guide to avoid surprises, reduce risk, and set your project up for success from day one.
What is the Purpose and Long-Term Goal of the Building?
Before you think about design or construction, ask:
Is this a long-term hold or a short-term sale?
Will it be owner-occupied or leased?
How might future needs change?
Why it matters: Your goals will shape every decision, from layout to finishes to energy performance.
Have I Carried out a Feasibility Study?
A feasibility study assesses the technical, legal, financial, and planning viability of your project.
Why it matters: This step uncovers red flags (like structural issues or planning restrictions) before you commit time and money.
Tip: A building consultant can perform an objective, detailed feasibility review tailored to your site and strategy.
Refurbishment or Rebuild: Which Makes More Sense?
If the project involves an existing building, ask:
Can the structure be retained?
Would a rebuild offer better long-term value?
How do cost, time, and disruption compare?
Why it matters: Many owners overinvest in refurbishments when a clean rebuild could be more strategic.
Is my Budget Realistic?
Have you considered:
Construction costs
Professional fees
Planning charges
Contingency funds (typically 10–15%)?
Why it matters: Budget overruns are one of the most common project failures. A clear cost plan early on helps avoid this.
What’s my Ideal Timeline and is it Feasible?
Don’t just ask when you want to start. Ask:
How long will approvals take?
Are there long-lead materials or contractor shortages?
Can works be phased?
Why it matters: Unrealistic timelines can lead to rushed decisions, expensive delays, and tenant dissatisfaction.
What are the Key Planning and Compliance Issues?
You’ll need to navigate:
Local planning policies
Building Regulations
CDM 2015 regulations (Construction Design & Management)
Fire safety and accessibility
Why it matters: A consultant can help you avoid rework and legal risk by getting this right from the outset.
How will the Building Perform Environmentally?
Today, energy efficiency and ESG compliance are not just desirable, they’re expected. Ask:
Can we meet BREEAM, LEED, or WELL standards?
What low-carbon systems can be integrated?
What’s the life-cycle cost of different materials?
Why it matters: Future-proof buildings are more valuable, easier to lease, and cheaper to run.
Who are the Right Professionals to Involve and When?
Have you engaged:
A building consultant
Architect or designer
Cost consultant / QS
Project manager
M&E engineer
Why it matters: Appointing the right team early prevents duplication, reduces friction, and improves accountability.
What are the Major Risks, and how will I Manage Them?
Ask your team to help identify:
Legal risks
Health & safety risks
Programme risks
Supply chain issues
Why it matters: A risk register and mitigation strategy are essential project control tools.
Do I Have a Building Consultant Guiding the Process?
This is arguably the most important question. A building consultant helps you:
Ask the right questions (like these!)
Manage risk
Translate design into deliverable reality
Protect your interests throughout the project
Why it matters: Consultants are your strategic partner, not just another vendor.
Final Thoughts: Start With Certainty, Not Assumptions
Every successful building project begins with clarity, strategy, and expert support. By asking these 10 questions before you begin, you’re already ahead of the game.
Ready to Start Smart?
Speak to one of our consultants today for a no-obligation feasibility review. Let’s ensure your project is grounded in the right questions, before the first brick is laid.
Building Project FAQs
What should I consider before starting a commercial build?
Define your goals, assess feasibility, understand compliance requirements, set a realistic budget and timeline, and engage a building consultant early.
How do I know if I need a building consultant?
If you want expert guidance on cost, compliance, planning, or risk management, a consultant adds value from day one.
What are common mistakes in building projects?
Underestimating costs, skipping feasibility studies, poor contractor selection, and failing to comply with regulations.
