10 phases, 100+ items — every workstream from the authorization memo to project close-out. Built to be used as a live document, not a reference guide you print and file.
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The checklist is organized as the project actually runs — not alphabetically, not by department, but in the sequence that determines whether your move-in date holds.
Written authorization with headcount and density confirmation, preliminary budget, lease vs. own analysis, broker engagement, market survey, scoring matrix, building infrastructure and landlord financial health verification.
Simultaneous LOI submission, test fit, SNDA negotiation, lease redline rounds, internal lease abstract, commission agreement, lease memorandum recording, and execution protocol.
AOR engagement, programming, SD through CDs, LL plan approval, ISP order (day of execution), redundant circuit, MDF/IDF design, structured cabling, AV design, permit submission, GC procurement, furniture award, signage.
Pre-construction meeting, submittal log, MEP rough-in inspections, low-voltage walkthrough before drywall, HVAC balancing, fire suppression, ceiling grid, flooring, millwork, cabling termination and certification, AV and security installation, punch list walks, TI draws.
Life safety system certification, fire alarm acceptance test scheduling, egress confirmation, electrical and mechanical finals, ADA compliance, CO issuance, TCO strategy if applicable, COI with additional insured endorsements, builder's risk, property policy update.
Utility account setup, telecom activation, janitorial and HVAC PM contracts, Emergency Action Plan, AED placement, parking assignments, employee communication package, server room move protocol, day-one IT readiness check, welcome kit distribution.
Final TI draw with unconditional lien waivers, as-built drawings, O&M manuals, equipment warranty log, lease abstract filed, critical date calendar, vendor contracts filed, budget reconciliation, 30-day post-move survey, lessons learned document.
The items that determine your move-in date — fiber circuits, furniture, AV equipment, permits, fire alarm testing, COI — with order timing and consequences of each missed window.
I am a corporate real estate strategist focused exclusively on tenants and owner-occupiers. I have managed or advised on relocations ranging from 3,000 SF suburban suites to multi-floor headquarters projects in major metros. Every item in this checklist came from a project where something went wrong because it was not on the list.
The checklist is the same framework I distribute to every VP of Facilities I work with before a relocation starts. It is not designed to replace a project manager — it is designed to make sure that whoever owns the project has everything in one place.
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