The Hidden Costs of Renting Office Space in the UK

On leased space, the service charge covers cleaning, security, lifts, reception and the upkeep of shared areas. It is quoted per square foot on top of rent and it can move each year, so ask for the last three years of figures and whether there is a cap.

In serviced and managed offices the service charge is usually wrapped into one monthly price, which is exactly why many occupiers prefer them: the number you agree is the number you pay.

Business rates are a separate tax on conventional leased space and they catch first time occupiers out more than anything else. Smaller suites can qualify for relief, so check before you budget, and in a serviced office rates are normally included in the desk price.

An empty floor is not an office. Desks, chairs, meeting room kit, cabling and decoration all cost money up front, and at the end of a lease the landlord can require you to return the space to its original condition, a cost known as dilapidations.

Managed offices usually fold the fit out into the monthly figure, which removes the big upfront bill. On a conventional lease, negotiate a rent free period or a fit out contribution from the landlord to offset it.

Internet, meeting room credits, printing, parking, bike storage, after hours air conditioning and even coffee can all be chargeable extras depending on the building. Ask for a full list of what is included and what is metered before comparing options.

This is where an independent broker earns their keep. We compare the all in monthly cost of every option, not the headline rate, so you can see the real difference. Tell us your brief and we will come back with a shortlist within 48 hours, completely free.