How to write a requirement brief that gets the right options
An area and a location produce a long list of unsuitable buildings. A short description of the operation produces a shortlist.
When a requirement is described only by area and location, every building of roughly that size is offered, and your team spends its time ruling them out. A brief that describes how the site will run lets an adviser do that screening for you.
Start with the operation
- What will the site do: storage, cross-docking, fulfilment, assembly, manufacturing?
- What comes in and goes out, how it is packed, and in what kind of vehicle?
- What are the operating hours and the peak periods?
Then the building
- Approximate area, and whether you need open yard or office space in addition.
- Clear height and floor load needed for your racking or equipment.
- Dock requirements, and any need for ground-level loading.
- Power, water and any specialised services.
Location, described by what matters
Rather than naming a single locality, describe what the site needs to be close to: customers, a plant, a highway, a labour catchment. This widens the search to buildings that meet the purpose and may be better value.
Compliance and approvals
- Licences and consents your operation will need, so the building can be checked against them.
- Fire safety requirements given your stock and storage height.
Commercial limits and decision process
- A budget range for rent and fit-out, shared with your adviser in confidence.
- The lease term and lock-in your business can accept.
- Who approves the decision, and the date by which you must be operational.
Separate must-haves from preferences
Mark each item as essential or preferred. A building that misses a preference may still be the right choice. One that misses an essential will not be, and knowing the difference early saves site visits.
Our requirement form follows this structure. It takes a few minutes, and you can save a PDF copy of what you submit.
This guide is general information for occupiers. It is not legal, tax or engineering advice. Requirements differ by state, authority and building, so confirm specifics with your counsel and technical advisers.