The restaurant industry is one of the most competitive in the world. With so many restaurants opening and closing every year, it’s no small feat to find success. Here is an overview of what to look for when inspecting a property that may become your new restaurant location.
It will also provide insight into how you can ensure that your potential home has everything you need for success before agreeing on purchasing or leasing a space. It’s all about knowing what you’re getting yourself into.
Inspect the property for structural damage
Make sure there are no major cracks in the foundation or walls. Check for any signs of water damage, such as a damp basement or wet carpet. Then look at the roof to see if it needs repairs and assess its condition.
Evaluate how well insulated the location is; poor insulation can lead to high utility bills and uncomfortable working and dining conditions. Take measurements of rooms to know what size kitchen will work best with your menu options and seating arrangements.
Inspect electrical systems, heat, gas, wiring, pipes, and other crucial systems
When inspecting a potential new restaurant property, it’s important to look at the condition of the electrical systems, heating, gas, wiring, and pipes. These are all crucial systems that need to be in good shape to run a successful restaurant. This is because heating and cooling systems, gas and electrical lineups, and other critical infrastructure work together to keep your restaurant running smoothly.
Look at the age of the equipment. Does it look like it’s been well maintained? Is there enough capacity for all necessary power outlets? Determine if the electrical systems can support newer equipment, such as appliances and air conditioners.
Inspect the restaurant’s water heater tank to ensure it has a large enough capacity for your needs. Water heating is extremely important in commercial establishments, so you need to know that a tank will handle all your needs.
Check for leaks around water fixtures, such as faucets and toilets. This can be a sign that the plumbing hasn’t been properly maintained or an issue with water pressure.
Look for problems with the plumbing and try to determine how old the plumbing is. Older plumbing systems can be expensive to maintain; if you’re planning on opening a diner that will serve all day, every day, then your plumbing system needs to be up for that challenge. Consult with a skilled plumber to correct any issues ahead of time.
Consider accessibility and ADA compliance to make sure it’s accessible for all guests
ADA compliance is a critical aspect of any new restaurant. Ensure that the space you’re considering is accessible to all guests, including those who have disabilities. Review the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines to ensure that the property meets all of the requirements.
Some things to consider when reviewing ADA compliance include:
- Are there ramps or elevators available for guests with mobility issues?
- Are there signs and markings that are easy to see and understand?
- Are there adequate restroom facilities for guests with disabilities?
- Is the location easy to navigate for blind or low-vision guests?
- Is the restaurant equipped with a braille menu?
To be on the safe side, check with your ADA compliance officer and review all documentation to ensure that the property you’re considering is ADA compliant.
Look at parking to see if there is enough space and what type of parking is available
When looking at a potential new restaurant property, it’s important to check parking availability. Not only do you need to make sure there is enough space for all of your guests, but you also need to determine what type of parking is available.
If the property has on-street parking, you’ll need to check with the local municipality to see any restrictions on how long guests can park. You’ll also want to find out if there are any restrictions on how close guests can park to the restaurant.
If the property has off-street parking, you’ll need to check if the lot is private or public. If the lot is public, you’ll need make sure that there’s enough parking for all of your guests and that the parking is accessible. You’ll also want to make sure that there’s a nearby sidewalk or path if the property doesn’t have a walkway.
Check out the kitchen and ensure that all equipment is in working order
When inspecting the kitchen and equipment, you’ll want to ensure that everything is in working order. This includes checking the oven, stovetop, refrigerators, and dishwashers. You’ll also want to make sure that there is plenty of storage space for food and supplies.
If you’re considering a property with an outdoor kitchen, make sure that the grill is in good condition and adequate storage for supplies.
It’s also important to inspect the kitchen’s layout to make sure that it will meet your needs. The kitchen should be large enough to accommodate all of your staff and equipment. There should also be enough space for guests to eat their meals comfortably.
Opening a new restaurant can be a daunting task, but you can make sure that you’re fully prepared by following this essential checklist. Make sure to inspect the property for any potential problems. Review ADA compliance to make sure that the property is accessible for all guests. Check the availability of parking and make sure that there is enough space for all of your guests. Inspect the kitchen and make sure that all equipment is in working order. Now, perform a final walkthrough of the restaurant to make sure everything is perfect.