When it comes to leasing industrial property in the Western Cape, the right decision can fast-track your operations, streamline logistics, and reduce long-term costs. But choosing the wrong property? That can set your business back months.
At Baker Street Properties, we've walked the journey with hundreds of industrial tenants—from logistics firms scaling rapidly, to manufacturers entering the Western Cape market for the first time. Based on real conversations and real-world experience, these are the five critical questions every tenant should ask before signing a lease.
Is the location strategically aligned with your supply chain and distribution routes?
Industrial property is about location, access, and flow. It's essential to evaluate whether the property is conveniently located near arterial roads, transport nodes, harbours, or your primary suppliers and clients.
Key Western Cape industrial nodes to consider:
- Montague Gardens & Paarden Eiland – close to the CBD, port, and ideal for last-mile logistics.
- Epping Industria – centralised, established, and still one of the most sought-after logistics hubs.
- Airport Industria & Bellville South – offering excellent airport and N1/N2 highway access.
- Brackenfell & Blackheath – ideal for fast-growing distributors servicing the northern corridor.
- Atlantis – fast becoming a green manufacturing node with attractive investment incentives.
Baker Street Insight:
We often advise clients to map their key transport nodes and cross-reference them with daily traffic data and load-shedding zones before shortlisting a site.
Does the property offer sufficient power, infrastructure, and services for your operations?
Power availability can be the make-or-break factor for manufacturers and cold storage tenants. Not all industrial units offer three-phase power, backup generators, or fire-compliant infrastructure.
Checklist to ask your broker:
- What is the available power capacity (kVA)?
- Are there backup systems in place?
- Is the property compliant with fire regulations and zoning laws?
- Are there boreholes or greywater systems for water resilience?
Baker Street Tip:
We'll walk you through the power specs and building compliance documentation before you even set foot in the warehouse.
What's included in the lease—and what's excluded?
Many tenants focus on the rental rate per square metre, but the devil is always in the detail. Ensure you have full transparency on:
- Operational costs (security, park levies, cleaning)
- Utility responsibilities (water, refuse, electricity)
- Maintenance obligations (roof, structure, internal repairs)
- Escalation clauses (annual increase percentages and market review triggers)
Baker Street Approach:
We believe lease transparency builds long-term trust. That's why we provide full breakdowns—no hidden surprises.
Will the space support your growth and evolving operational needs?
Leasing industrial property is not just about today. Will your operations double in size in the next 3 years? Do you foresee needing more storage or office space?
Future-proofing questions to ask:
- Is there expansion potential within the park or neighbouring units?
- What is the landlord's stance on sub-letting?
- Are lease terms flexible enough to adjust with your business?
Baker Street Experience:
We've helped tenants negotiate phased occupation, rent-free periods, and first rights of refusal on adjoining units—ensuring flexibility and scalability.
Who manages the property—and how hands-on are they?
The landlord-tenant relationship matters. Ask about the reputation and responsiveness of the property manager or landlord. Some industrial parks have on-site teams, while others rely on outsourced management.
Don't forget to ask:
- Is there a formal fault reporting process?
- What is the average repair turnaround time?
- Are other tenants satisfied?
Baker Street Standard:
We only work with reputable landlords who maintain high service levels. If we wouldn't place our own business in the building, we won't recommend it to you.
Final Word: Make Data-Led, Business-Smart Leasing Decisions
Leasing industrial space in the Western Cape is a strategic move, especially in a rising market. With coastal industrial vacancies dropping (e.g. Cape Town decentralised below 10%) and rental growth trending upward—particularly in nodes like Epping and Airport Industria—smart tenants are acting decisively.
Did You Know?
- Cape Town (Decentralised A-Grade) industrial rentals saw 11.7% growth year-on-year
- National average vacancy dropped from 13.9% to 12.8%
Looking for a partner who understands your business needs?
At Baker Street Properties, our industrial specialists are here to help you evaluate your operational requirements, run cost comparisons, and secure the right property with the right lease terms—every time.
Ready to find your ideal industrial space?
Get in touch to start your leasing journey, or browse our available industrial listings today.
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