Occupiers Deserve a Page Turn Process

A page turn process is common practice on projects involving large projects with a project manager. But, when it comes to smaller projects and turn-key spaces, it becomes a formality that is often forgotten. After managing hundreds of projects throughout my career, it has become clear that this process is completed in the best interest of the occupier and should not be overlooked, regardless of the project’s size, scope and whether a project manager is involved or not. 

So, what is it?

A page turn is the process where the occupier, landlord, architect and the advisor or project manager sit down and review the blueprints and design documents page by page. It’s a chance to reconvene and a point of confirmation. A last chance to make sure the features and design elements that were important to you, back when you started this process, end up getting are captured in the final design, and don’t become a change order and cost to you as the occupier or increase to the construction budget. 

When does it typically occur?

The process should occur at the 60 percent design phase and always before the final construction documents are issued. Changes made after the 60 percent drawings, can be costly additions to both the budget and timeline, even if they were features the occupier originally asked for but were not captured during initial programming or plan design

Yes. Your Turn Key Project Needs a Page Turn. 

As the name suggests, when we refer to a “turn key” project we mean that tenant improvements will be done by the landlord (typically based on building standard finishes) and all the occupier must do is turn the key and walk through the door. This may mean no fancy art installations, no custom mill-work finishes, just a simple, functional office space. 

It does not mean, however, that no work was completed. 

Typically, workspaces are altered in some way. That could be taking down a few interior walls to create open space, adding walls to create additional private offices, updated lighting or new paint and carpet. In these cases, the page turn process will be short, often 45 minutes or less. It also means that the extra coat closet you requested and was approved or the additional lighting that you needed won’t be left out or be labeled a “change order”. 

Why does it matter?

The process verifies the details down to the number of outlets. It makes certain that the color of paint and style of carpet is what you requested, the correct lighting systems are installed and even that the walls are in the right place. Page turns are a formality and can sometimes be an unpopular request.. But I am a firm believer that they are a necessity, no matter what the size of the project and yes, even with turn- keys.

It matters to us, because we believe in radical transparency. Our interests lie solely with the occupier, so we want to ensure no empty promises are made and your initial requests and concerns aren’t forgotten along the way. Because Cresa is an occupier-focused, full-service firm, our job doesn’t end when your lease is signed. We take the role of advisor seriously, so even if your project doesn’t warrant full project management services, we know that it is in your best interest to have that page turn process. We value your relationship and want to make sure your landlord follows through on everything promised and that you get the workspace that you anticipated. 

Relocating is stressful. We know the ins and outs of the process, so you don’t have to. We’re in your corner, making sure no stone is left unturned. Ensuring that you can focus on running your business.While we manage the details behind the scenes.