Warehouse Make Goods Explained: What You Need to Do Before Lease Handover
A warehouse make good is the process of returning a leased space back to its original condition before handing it back to the landlord.
This is a common requirement at the end of a lease. If it’s not done properly, it can delay handover and lead to extra costs.
Quick Answer: What Is a Warehouse Make Good?
- restoring a warehouse to its original condition
- removing racking, fit-outs and fixtures
- repairing walls, floors and services
- cleaning and preparing the site for handover
- meeting lease agreement requirements
What Is Included in a Make Good?
A typical warehouse make good may include:
- removing pallet racking and shelving
- dismantling offices or partitions
- repairing walls, floors and ceilings
- electrical and lighting adjustments
- general clean-up and waste removal
The exact work depends on what was installed during the lease.
Why Make Goods Matter
Make goods are not optional. They are part of most lease agreements.
If the work is incomplete or done incorrectly, it can lead to:
- delays in lease handover
- additional charges from the landlord
- disputes over site condition
Getting it right the first time avoids these issues.
Common Issues During Make Goods
Problems usually come from:
- leaving racking or fixtures behind
- damage during removal
- incomplete repairs
- poor coordination between trades
These issues can slow the process and increase costs.
Removing Racking and Fit-Outs
One of the main parts of a make good is removing installed systems such as pallet racking.
This needs to be done properly to:
- avoid damage to the structure
- ensure safety
- prepare the space for handover
In many cases, racking can be relocated or reused at another site.
Timing and Planning
Make goods often happen under time pressure.
It’s important to:
- plan ahead
- understand lease requirements
- coordinate removal and repair work
Leaving it too late usually creates unnecessary stress and extra cost.
Managing the Full Process
A warehouse make good involves multiple steps and trades.
Managing the full process ensures:
- work is completed in the right order
- deadlines are met
- the site is ready for handover
This is why many businesses use one team to handle everything from strip-out to final clean.
What is a make good in a warehouse lease?
It is the requirement to return the warehouse to its original condition before handing it back.
What needs to be removed during a make good?
Typically racking, shelving, offices, partitions and any added fixtures.
How long does a warehouse make good take?
It depends on the size of the site and the amount of work required. Planning ahead helps avoid delays.
