19/01/2026
Building ConsultancySelling or acquiring a business involves far more than financial valuations and balance sheets. The physical property where that business operates plays a critical role in deal success, yet it is often overlooked until problems emerge during negotiations.
At Eddisons, our building and project consultancy teams work alongside our business sales specialists to ensure property considerations enhance rather than derail transactions.
So, whether you are preparing a business for sale or planning alterations after acquisition, our expert technical input can protect your interests and maximise value.
Why building consultancy matters when selling a business
Business sellers often focus heavily on financial performance whilst neglecting the condition of their premises. However, prospective buyers may scrutinise the property just as closely as the accounts, and unresolved building issues can significantly reduce offers or even collapse deals.
Common problems that undermine business valuations include deferred maintenance, outstanding dilapidations obligations, energy efficiency concerns, and compliance failures with building regulations or health and safety requirements. Addressing these proactively demonstrates transparency and strengthens your negotiating position.
Our building consultants can conduct pre-sale assessments to identify issues that might affect value. This allows sellers to make strategic improvements before marketing begins, rather than facing last-minute negotiations over repair costs.
Technical due diligence: Protecting buyers during acquisition
For buyers, technical due diligence is essential protection against hidden liabilities. A comprehensive building survey before business acquisition reveals the true condition of the property and helps assess whether it is fit for your intended purpose.
Our assessments examine structural integrity, mechanical and electrical systems, compliance with regulations, and potential future repair costs. This information informs your negotiation strategy and ensures you are not inheriting expensive problems.
In M&A processes, technical due diligence also identifies whether the property supports your growth plans or will require immediate investment to meet operational needs.
Pre-sale property improvements: Enhancing business value
Not all building improvements deliver equal returns when selling a business. Our project consultants help sellers prioritise works that will genuinely enhance value whilst avoiding unnecessary expenditure on improvements that buyers may not value.
Some pre-sale upgrades to consider include:
Energy efficiency improvements
Energy efficiency upgrades often prove worthwhile, particularly as corporate sustainability commitments become more prevalent. Installing LED lighting, improving insulation, or upgrading heating systems can reduce running costs and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
Cosmetic enhancements
First impressions matter during business viewings. Modernising customer-facing areas, refreshing reception spaces, or addressing obvious cosmetic issues like damaged flooring or tired paintwork creates a positive impression that suggests well-maintained premises.
These relatively low-cost improvements can significantly influence buyer perception and justify asking prices.
Compliance work
Resolving fire safety concerns, asbestos issues, or accessibility deficiencies removes barriers to sale and demonstrates responsible ownership. Buyers will conduct thorough due diligence, and unresolved compliance matters typically result in price reductions far exceeding the cost of addressing them proactively.
Our building consultancy team can advise which improvements offer the best return on investment within your timeframe and budget.
Post-acquisition alterations for new owners
New business owners frequently want to reconfigure premises to suit their operational requirements or brand identity. Whether you are expanding production facilities, creating additional office space, or completely refurbishing customer areas, we can help.
Our project consultants develop phased delivery plans that minimise disruption, ensure compliance with building regulations and planning requirements, and keep works on schedule and within budget. We also manage contractor relationships and provide regular progress updates, allowing you to focus on running the business.
Feasibility studies conducted before acquisition can inform your decision-making. If you plan significant alterations, our team can assess whether the property can accommodate your vision, identify potential planning constraints, and provide cost estimates that feed into your acquisition budget.
How can Eddisons support my business sales transactions?
The advantage of working with us is our integrated approach. Our building specialists work closely with our business sales specialists to create seamless support throughout the transaction lifecycle.
This collaboration ensures consistent advice and reduces the risk of conflicting information from multiple advisers. Whether you need a building survey before acquisition, assistance with dilapidations negotiations, or project management for post-sale alterations, our RICS-certified team delivers professional support backed by over 180 years of experience.
Get building consultancy support for your business sale
Successful business sales require both financial and physical property expertise. If you are preparing a business for sale or planning an acquisition, our building and project consultancy teams can provide the technical insight you need to proceed with confidence.
Call 0800 051 2593 or use the form below to arrange a free consultation with one of our specialists.
