How to Prepare Your Team for a Major Commercial Renovation

1. Communicate Early and Often

The most common source of frustration during renovations? Lack of communication. Employees and tenants need to know what’s happening, when, and how it will impact them.

✅ What to do:

• Hold an initial meeting to explain the scope, timeline, and goals of the renovation.

• Distribute a written renovation schedule with key milestones and expected disruptions.

• Designate a point of contact (e.g., a project manager or facilities leader) for questions and updates.

2. Identify Areas of Impact

Renovation may affect specific zones, utilities, or services like bathrooms, entrances, HVAC, or internet access. Knowing what will be off-limits helps employees plan accordingly.

✅ Ask your contractor:

• Which areas will be closed and when?

• Will noise, dust, or vibration affect adjacent spaces?

• Are there plans for temporary partitions, rerouting foot traffic, or temporary power?

  3. Create a Temporary Workspace Plan

  If part of your building will be unusable, you may need to relocate teams temporarily — either within the building or off-site.

  Options include:

  • Remote work (if feasible for certain departments)

  • Shared desks or hot-desking in unaffected areas

  • Leasing a temporary satellite office or using co-working spaces

    4. Address Safety Concerns

    Renovations come with inherent risks: exposed wiring, noise, dust, and foot traffic hazards. It’s critical to create a safe working environment for your team and any visitors.

    Safety tips:

    • Work with your contractor to cordon off active construction zones.

    • Ensure proper signage and wayfinding is in place.

    • Make PPE available if employees need to enter semi-active areas.

    • Reinforce emergency protocols (fire exits, alarms, etc.)

      5. Minimize Downtime Where Possible

      Work with your contractor to schedule high-impact or loud activities during off-hours or weekends. If that’s not possible, give employees the flexibility to adapt.

      Consider:

      • Adjusting business hours during peak construction

      • Encouraging remote work on heavy construction days

      • Coordinating deliveries or client meetings around quieter periods

        6. Keep Morale High During the Disruption

        Let’s be honest — construction is inconvenient. Noise, dust, and detours can wear on team morale. Make it a little easier with some thoughtful touches:

        • Provide noise-canceling headphones or earplugs.

        • Organize "coffee & construction" mornings to give updates and build excitement.

        • Offer occasional team lunches or “thank you” perks for patience.

          7. Celebrate the Finish Line

          Once the renovation is complete, celebrate with your team! A ribbon-cutting, staff lunch, or walk-through event helps close the loop and recognize everyone’s patience and adaptability.

          Final Thoughts

          Commercial renovations don’t have to disrupt your business or stress out your team — with the right planning and communication, they can be a positive and even energizing experience.

          By preparing your staff ahead of time, staying flexible during the process, and keeping safety top of mind, you’ll be well-positioned to enjoy the benefits of your newly upgraded space.