Top 5 Business Types That Face Challenges in Changing Use
Changing the use of commercial spaces often encounters obstacles, particularly with certain business types.
Many people are surprised to learn that some businesses are almost always problematic when it comes to changing their use.
During consultations, phrases like “I thought this type of business would be fine” or “Why can’t I change it since it’s a commercial space?” come up frequently.
However, it is clear from experience that there are specific business types that frequently encounter issues during the change of use process.
Today, I will outline the top five business types that most often receive a 'not permitted' verdict.
To summarize quickly, the challenge with changing use is not solely about the type of business but rather a combination of 'business type + building conditions.'
Even within the same business category, some buildings will allow the change while others will not.
Here are the top five business types that often face obstacles in changing their use:
1️⃣ Gyms, Pilates studios, and personal training facilities
This is the most common type of consultation and also the one that faces the most obstacles.
❌ Reasons for obstacles:
- Significant increase in parking requirements when changing use
- Height restrictions and evacuation structure issues
- Simultaneous application of fire safety standards
These issues are particularly problematic in buildings that are:
- More than two stories
- Converted from existing offices or commercial spaces
- Have insufficient parking
2️⃣ Academies, tutoring centers, and study cafes
Surprisingly, this is a type of business that many overlook.
❌ Reasons for obstacles:
- Very strict evacuation and fire safety standards
- Height restrictions
- Requirements for separate entrances
3️⃣ Restaurants (especially converting from general restaurants to other types)
Many people mistakenly believe that all restaurant types are easily changeable.
❌ Reasons for obstacles:
- Parking requirements vary by business type
- Issues with sewage and drainage capacity
- Ventilation and exhaust structure issues
4️⃣ Hospitals, clinics, and psychological counseling centers
Despite their small area, they are subject to strict regulations.
❌ Reasons for obstacles:
- High parking requirements
- Strict evacuation and flow regulations
- Height restrictions
5️⃣ Accommodation and related businesses
This type of consultation has been increasing recently.
❌ Reasons for obstacles:
- The nature of the use is special
- Issues with transitioning from residential to accommodation or officetel
- Structural issues such as parking, fire safety, and corridor width
It’s important to note that even within similar types of accommodation, some locations may allow conversion to officetel, while others may only permit accommodation or neither.
Before signing a contract, it is crucial to ask:
- Is this type of business actually possible in this building?
- What are the first potential obstacles: parking, height, or fire safety?
- If it’s not possible, what can be resolved through design, and what absolutely cannot be changed?
If you do not receive clear answers to these questions, it is not yet time to sign a contract.
The most common issue that arises among these business types is related to parking.
Understanding why parking can lead to the failure of a change of use and why there are no solutions after signing a contract is crucial.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/loolooky/224159952437
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