Own your garage/flex space

The Small Warehouse Build-Out Checklist: Electrical, Mezzanines, and Security

Why Your Build-Out Matters

Your flex space investment starts paying off the moment your build-out maximizes usability, safety, and resale value. A poorly planned interior can torpedo your ROI, while a smart build-out pays for itself in efficiency and appeal.


Electrical & Power Infrastructure

  • Service & amperage capacity: Ensure your unit can support heavy machines, tools, HVAC, and charging.

  • Panel location & layout: Centralize where possible, avoid running long conduit runs.

  • Future-proofing: Leave capacity for expansion, EV charging, or lighting upgrades.

  • Lighting: Use LED high-bays, motion sensors, daylighting controls.

  • Backup options: Consider generator or battery backup for mission-critical operations.


Mezzanines & Structural Upgrades

  • Load rating & engineering: Match anticipated load (storage, office, light manufacturing).

  • Fire safety & egress: Include staircases, sprinklers, guardrails per code.

  • Material choice: Steel framing, pre-engineered decking, modular systems.

  • Modularity & flexibility: Build reconfigurable layouts so future owners or tenants can adapt.


Climate Control, Insulation & HVAC

  • Insulation envelope: R-value in walls/roof can reduce heating/cooling bills dramatically.

  • HVAC sizing: Don’t oversize — balance with ventilation needs.

  • Airflow and layout: Ensure desks, workstations, and machines are within HVAC zones.

  • Make-up air & exhaust: For shops needing ventilation, plan airflow carefully to maintain comfort and code compliance.


Security & Access Control

  • Overhead doors / roll-ups: Motorized, with remote or keypad control.

  • Access control & alarms: Badge or code access, CCTV, motion detection.

  • Perimeter lighting: Bright, well-placed lights deter vandalism.

  • Fire safety & suppression: Sprinklers, fire walls, alarm systems to meet local codes.


Networking, Connectivity & Low Voltage

  • Structured wiring backbone: Cat6 / fiber backbone for cameras, Wi-Fi, control systems.

  • Wi-Fi access strategy: Ceiling-mounted APs cover mezzanine and ground floor.

  • Camera & security system layout: Cover entries, corners, sensitive areas.

  • Power for tech: UPS circuits, surge protection, clean power for electronics.


Flooring, Finishes & Layouts

  • Floor slab specs: Flatness (F-number), load capacity, crack control.

  • Floor finishes: Polished concrete, epoxy, or sealed surfaces.

  • Flexibility in partitioning: Use moveable walls or demising systems for future layout changes.

  • Lighting & aesthetics: Good lighting + clean finish sells — for resale or rental, finish matters.


Commissioning & Final Checks

  • Test all electrical loads.

  • Walk all egress paths, stairways, handrails.

  • Confirm all life-safety systems (smoke, fire alarm, sprinklers).

  • Capture “as built” drawings and O&M manuals for warranties.

  • Photograph before occupant move-in to record condition.