What to Look For Before Signing a Lease or Buying Property
Your fabrication shop’s location is more than a place to work — it's the foundation of your entire business. It affects your daily operations, power availability, delivery flow, safety, and long-term scalability.
by Brent Mathurin
I’ve made the decision to purchase a property in full cash and temporarily shut down operations to build something better. Here’s everything I’m using to guide my decision — and what I believe every welder-fabricator should know before signing anything.
📍 1. Zoning and Legal Compliance
Before anything else, confirm that the property is zoned for industrial or commercial fabrication use. Residential or agricultural zoning can get you shut down fast.
✅ Check for:
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Noise restrictions
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Metalwork, welding, or machine operation limits
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Storage allowances for gas, chemicals, or scrap
Pro tip: Ask to see official zoning maps or request a letter of use confirmation from the municipality.
⚡ 2. Power Supply and Upgrade Options
You’ll likely need 3-phase power to run machines like plasma tables, laser cutters, and ironworkers.
✅ Ask:
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Is 3-phase power already available on the street?
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Can the utility company install it?
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What's the cost for the connection? (Mine is $55,000)
If it’s not available, you’re going to face serious delays or expenses just to operate.
🚛 3. Accessibility and Logistics
How easy is it to receive materials and ship finished products?
✅ Evaluate:
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Proximity to major roads or highways
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Driveway access for flatbeds and delivery trucks
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Space to offload steel bundles, plates, or equipment
Bonus: Is there a loading dock or high-clearance door?
📐 4. Size, Shape, and Layout Potential
Square footage isn’t everything. You need a space that supports efficient layout, airflow, and future expansion.
✅ Look for:
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High ceilings (for material racks and gantry cranes)
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Open floor plans (no interior poles)
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Room for tool zones: cutting, prep, welding, grinding, assembly
My advice: Think about your workflow from Day 1 to Year 5.
💨 5. Ventilation and Environmental Control
Metalwork generates heat, fumes, and dust. Your shop needs fresh air flow and exhaust options.
✅ Check for:
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Windows and roof vents
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Permission to add intake/exhaust fans
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Climate control if you're in a hot or cold area
This affects comfort, health, and even equipment lifespan.
🛠 6. Modifications, Upgrades, and Ownership Rights
Whether you're buying or leasing, find out what you’re allowed to build or change.
✅ Confirm:
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Can you trench for air lines or build additions?
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Are you responsible for maintenance or roof repairs?
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Will you need permits to install equipment?
If you’re buying, ownership puts the power in your hands. If leasing, get everything in writing.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Think Beyond Today
When I chose to buy my shop, I wasn’t just thinking about today’s welding jobs. I was building a platform for the next 10 years. Every decision — from zoning to power to truck access — is about setting yourself up to scale.
This isn't just a building. It's the engine room for your legacy.
🔗
Next Steps to Build Smarter:
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Building a smarter shop starts with smart planning" Heres how we did it step by step.#FabricationShop #WeldingBusiness #WorkshopDesign #WeldingShopSetup #MetalFabrication #WelderLife #WeldingEntrepreneur #IndustrialWorkspace
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