Episode 9: Whoops It Can Happen to You: The Importance of the Landlord’s Work Letter

In this episode, Art and Hailee discuss an optometrist in Austin whose construction bids came in far higher than expected—only to discover the landlord’s work letter left out critical components of the space. With no HVAC, no electrical panel, no drywall, and no concrete slab, the tenant was facing tens of thousands in unplanned costs.

Optometry spaces may not require extensive plumbing, but missing core infrastructure can still dramatically shift the budget.

This episode highlights:
• Why MEPs are essential for receiving real—not inflated—contractor bids
• How a cold, dark shell alters cost expectations for optometry practices
• The role of the landlord’s work letter in avoiding construction surprises
• When and how to negotiate TI money to compensate for missing items
• The impact of using an inexperienced realtor on your project budget

Essential listening for ODs evaluating lease spaces and trying to avoid costly oversights.