Leasing a new commercial space in Round Rock is exciting, but most spaces need work before you can open. A tenant improvement (TI) build-out turns an empty shell or an old layout into a space that fits your business. This guide covers the steps, timeline and key decisions.
See our tenant improvement construction services.
What Is a Tenant Improvement?
A tenant improvement is the construction work done to customize a commercial space for a tenant. It can include:
- new walls and room layouts, often with metal framing
- acoustical ceilings
- drywall and finishes
- flooring, lighting and electrical updates
- interior painting
- restrooms and accessibility upgrades
Step 1: Review Your Lease and TI Allowance
Many landlords offer a TI allowance, which is money toward your build-out. Before signing, confirm:
- how much the allowance covers
- who manages the construction
- what the landlord requires for approval
Step 2: Plan the Layout
Work out how your business will use the space: offices, reception, storage, break rooms and customer areas. A good layout saves money by avoiding changes later.
Step 3: Design and Permits
Most build-outs in Round Rock need a building permit and approved plans. The process includes plan review and inspections. Read our step-by-step guide to the construction permit process in Round Rock, TX.
Commercial spaces also need to meet accessibility rules. See Texas Accessibility Standards: What Commercial Build-Outs Actually Have to Meet.
Step 4: Construction
Once permits are approved, construction usually follows this order:
- demolition of old finishes, if needed
- framing and rough-in for electrical, plumbing and HVAC
- inspections
- drywall, ceilings and finishes
- paint, flooring and fixtures
- final inspection and certificate of occupancy
How Long Does a TI Build-Out Take?
It depends on the size of the space, the scope of work and permit times. Small cosmetic updates can be quick, while full build-outs take longer. Planning early and choosing an experienced contractor keeps your timeline on track.
Should You Use a General Contractor or Design-Build?
Both can work for tenant improvements. Compare the two in General Contractor vs. Design-Build Firm: Which Is Right for Your Project?
Tips to Avoid Delays
- get landlord approval before submitting plans
- order long-lead items, like doors and fixtures, early
- avoid changing the design mid-construction
- choose a contractor who handles multiple trades in-house
Plan Your Build-Out in Round Rock
A & A 1st Choice handles tenant improvements from framing and ceilings to drywall and paint, across Round Rock, Austin and Georgetown. See our commercial services.
A & A 1st Choice, LLC · 2111 Sam Bass Rd, Suite B-1800, Round Rock, TX 78681 · (512) 767-2935
FAQs
What is a TI allowance? It’s money the landlord provides toward building out your space, agreed in the lease.
Do I need a permit for a tenant improvement in Round Rock? Most build-outs that change walls, electrical, plumbing or HVAC need a permit.
Who pays for tenant improvements? It depends on the lease. Often the landlord gives an allowance and the tenant covers costs above it.
