Noise Issues

If you are new to using commercial space in a multi-user building, you will soon realize that acoustic separation between users is generally non-existent. Unlike a residential property, in which neighbor noise might be limited to footsteps, voices and electronic audio, commercial spaces often have running compressors, wood working equipment, music studios or other sources of loud noise and vibrations. 

If acoustics affect your art, find out who your potential neighbors might be before committing to the space. As with residential tenants, commercial tenants move in and move out regularly; ask the landlord how much time remains on the leases for those spaces adjacent to yours. Also, address in your lease negotiations what will happen if a noisy tenant moves in after your lease begins. If you are buying the space, consider insulating the space from noise.