Warehouse Tour Checklist: 12 Things to Look For Before You Sign

When you’re searching for warehouse space, the tour is your best opportunity to understand what a building can really offer your business. Online listings rarely tell the full story—details like floor condition, loading capabilities, and power infrastructure only reveal themselves when you walk the space.

Whether you're expanding, relocating, or leasing for the first time, this checklist will help you tour any warehouse with confidence. Use it to spot potential issues, ask the right questions, and make a smart, informed decision.

1. Floors & Structural Condition

The warehouse floor is the backbone of your operation. Cracks, uneven surfaces, or old patchwork can affect racking, equipment, and safety.

What to inspect:

• Uneven areas or spalling

• Floor repairs or discoloration

• Load capacity (especially for heavy equipment)

Ask the landlord:

• Has the slab undergone recent repairs?

• What’s the certified floor load rating?

2. Roof & Water Tightness

Roof leaks can cause product loss, downtime, and expensive repairs. During a tour, look upward—ceilings can reveal a lot.

What to inspect:

• Stains or water marks on ceilings

• Visible rust on metal decking

• Age and type of roof (metal, TPO, EPDM)

Ask the landlord:

• When was the roof last replaced or repaired?

• Is a roof warranty in place?

3. Loading & Dock Access

Efficient loading is essential for logistics-heavy operations. The right configuration can save hours of labor and reduce bottlenecks.

What to inspect:

• Number and type of doors (dock-high, drive-in)

• Dock levelers, seals, and bumpers

• Truck turning radius and yard size

Ask the landlord:

• Are there any loading restrictions or shared docks?

• Are levelers mechanical or hydraulic?

4. Power Supply

Your equipment, machines, and future growth all depend on sufficient and stable electrical power.

What to inspect:

• Amperage and voltage

• Single-phase vs. three-phase

• Condition of electrical panels

Ask the landlord:

• Can additional power be added if needed?

• Are there separate meters for office and warehouse?

5. Lighting Quality

Good lighting improves accuracy, safety, and workflow. Poor lighting equals higher utility costs and operational headaches.

What to inspect:

• LED vs. fluorescent fixtures

• Light distribution across the space

• Whether bulbs/fixtures are tenant-maintained

Ask the landlord:

• When were lights last upgraded?

6. Clear Height & Storage Capacity

Ceiling height directly affects pallet racking, machinery placement, and storage density.

What to inspect:

• Clear height (not overall height)

• Trusses, sprinkler lines, or ductwork that reduce usable space

Ask the landlord:

• What is the maximum allowable racking height per fire code?

7. HVAC & Ventilation

Not every warehouse is climate-controlled, but airflow and heating still matter for safety and comfort.

What to inspect:

• HVAC unit age and condition

• Warehouse fans and airflow

• Temperature-controlled rooms (if needed)

Ask the landlord:

• Who pays for HVAC maintenance and repairs?

8. Parking & Yard Access

Employee parking, customer access, and truck maneuverability all affect daily operations—not just during peak times.

What to inspect:

• Number of dedicated parking spaces

• Fenced or gated yard areas

• Traffic flow and neighboring businesses

Ask the landlord:

• Are there parking limits or shared areas?

9. Security Systems

A secure warehouse protects inventory, equipment, and employees.

What to inspect:

• Cameras, alarms, and access control

• Exterior lighting

• Fencing and gate mechanisms

Ask the landlord:

• Are security features included or tenant-installed?

10. Office & Restroom Areas

Even a small warehouse needs functional administrative and support spaces.

What to inspect:

• Layout and size of office areas

• Restroom cleanliness and quantity

• Break room, kitchenette, or conference space

Ask the landlord:

• Are layout modifications allowed?

11. Fire Safety & Compliance

Warehouses must meet local safety standards—and your operations may require specific classifications.

What to inspect:

• Sprinkler type (standard or ESFR)

• Fire exit paths and extinguishers

• Up-to-date inspection tags

Ask the landlord:

• When was the building last inspected?

• Does the sprinkler system support your storage type?

12. Access, Traffic & Surroundings

The warehouse isn’t the only thing to evaluate—the surrounding area matters for logistics and safety.

What to inspect:

• Street width and truck accessibility

• Proximity to highways

• Nearby industrial or high-traffic users

Ask the landlord:

• Are there any local access restrictions for large vehicles?

Questions Every Tenant Should Ask

Ask these during or after your tour to get clarity on responsibilities and potential future costs:

• What is included in CAM (common area maintenance) fees?

• Who handles HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and lighting repairs?

• Are there any known issues with the roof, slab, or drainage?

• What improvements or customizations are allowed?

• What lease term options are available?

• How soon can the space be delivered?

These questions help you understand not just the building—but the experience of leasing it.

Download Your Printable Checklist 

Bring this checklist with you on your next warehouse tour. Take notes, compare spaces, and stay organized.

👉 Download the Warehouse Tour Checklist 

This simple 1–2 page sheet includes:

• 12 key inspection items

• Space for notes

• A clean, professional layout

• Ready for printing or mobile use on-site

Ready to Tour a Warehouse?

Book a tour and use this checklist on-site.

We’ll walk you through each item and help you evaluate whether a space truly fits your needs.