Introduction
Viewing a commercial property before auction is an essential part of the buying process. It allows you to assess whether the property is suitable for your intended use, identify potential risks, and determine how much you are prepared to bid.
This guide explains how to arrange viewings and what you should consider when inspecting a commercial property prior to auction.
Arranging Auction Commercial Property Viewings
Once you have identified a property you may wish to bid on, you should always arrange to view it before auction day wherever possible.
Viewing arrangements are normally organised through the auctioneer or the selling agent. Details are often published in the auction catalogue or online listing, but if information is unclear you should contact the auctioneer directly.
In many cases, at least 24 to 48 hours’ notice is required to arrange access.
Some properties — particularly investment properties with tenants — may have restricted viewing times, so early planning is advisable.
What to look for when viewing an auction property
There are several important factors to consider when inspecting a commercial property.
1. Overall Suitability and First Impressions
First impressions can provide a useful indication of whether the property meets your needs.
If you are purchasing for business use, consider:
- Whether the property reflects the image you want for your business
- Visibility and frontage
- Access for customers, suppliers, or deliveries
- Local surroundings and neighbouring occupiers
If you are buying as an investor, consider:
- Likely tenant demand in the location
- Rental potential
- Vacancy risk
- Ease of re-letting if the property becomes empty
2. Condition of the Building
You should try to assess the general condition of the property during your viewing.
Questions to consider include:
- Are there obvious structural issues?
- Is there visible cracking, movement, or water ingress?
- Are there signs of damp or roof problems?
- What is the condition of windows, doors, and external areas?
- Does the property appear well maintained or neglected?
Older commercial buildings may contain materials such as asbestos, so you should check whether surveys or reports are available.
Condition issues are often reflected in the guide price, but repair costs can sometimes exceed expectations if not properly investigated.
3. Layout and Practical Use
If you intend to occupy the premises, you should assess whether the layout supports your business operations.
Consider:
- Floor area and usable space
- Ceiling heights
- Storage or servicing areas
- Accessibility for customers or staff
- Compliance with disability access requirements
- Loading access where relevant
For investors, the layout should be considered in terms of marketability and flexibility for future tenants.
4. Facilities and Services
Facilities can significantly affect both usability and value.
You should check:
- Toilet and welfare facilities
- Kitchen or staff areas
- Heating and cooling systems
- Electrical installations
- Lighting
- Broadband availability or connectivity
The condition and age of mechanical and electrical services can influence future costs and refurbishment requirements.
5. Location and Surrounding Environment
Location remains one of the most important factors in commercial property.
You should assess:
- Transport links and accessibility
- Parking availability
- Nearby amenities
- Competing commercial premises
- Local economic activity
For some sectors, such as retail or hospitality, footfall and visibility may be critical.
The Importance of professional surveys
Although a viewing provides useful insight, it does not replace professional advice.
It is strongly recommended that you instruct a qualified commercial property surveyor before bidding.
A surveyor can:
- Identify structural defects
- Highlight repair liabilities
- Estimate refurbishment costs
- Recommend specialist inspections if required
- Provide an independent assessment of condition
A full building survey can help you understand the true cost of ownership and may influence your maximum bid.
Energy efficiency and compliance considerations
Modern regulations mean buyers should also consider compliance issues during viewings.
For example:
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating
- Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) requirements
- Fire safety compliance
- Accessibility requirements
- Planning or use restrictions
Poor energy ratings or compliance issues can affect lettability, financing, and long-term value.
How Viewing Helps You Decide Your Maximum Bid
The purpose of viewing and due diligence is to allow you to make an informed decision about:
- Whether to bid at all
- How much to bid
- The level of risk you are prepared to accept
In some cases, the results of inspections may lead you to withdraw from bidding entirely, which could save substantial future costs.
Summary
Viewing a commercial property before auction is a critical step that helps buyers understand condition, suitability, and risk.
Combining a physical inspection with professional advice provides the knowledge needed to bid confidently and avoid unexpected liabilities after purchase.
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