Our Process for Tenant Improvements:
1. Consultation & Needs Assessment
We begin by understanding your business goals, operational needs, and design preferences. This step ensures the space is customized not only for aesthetics but also for functionality and customer experience.
2. Site Review & Existing Conditions
Before design, we conduct a thorough review of the existing space. This includes checking the base building systems (mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection), structural conditions, and any landlord restrictions.
3. Design & Code Compliance
Our team collaborates with designers, engineers, and consultants to create a layout that meets your business needs while complying with BC Building Code, Vancouver Building By-law, fire safety regulations, and accessibility standards.
4. Permits & Approvals
Tenant improvements require several approvals that we manage on your behalf, including:
Landlord Consent – Ensuring proposed work is approved by the building owner or property manager.
Building Permit (TI Permit) – Submitted to the city with architectural and engineering drawings.
Trade Permits – Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and sprinkler permits as required.
Health Authority Approval – For restaurants, food service, and medical facilities.
Fire Department Review – For any fire alarm, sprinkler, or life safety system modifications.
Our experience with municipal permitting allows us to streamline applications and coordinate directly with inspectors to avoid costly delays.
5. Construction & Trade Coordination
We manage all trades involved — demolition, partitions, finishes, mechanical, electrical, and specialty installations, ensuring work is completed efficiently, safely, and with minimal disruption to neighbouring tenants.
6. Inspections & Quality Control
At each stage, city inspections are scheduled and completed, including fire safety and life systems testing. We also conduct our own quality checks to verify workmanship and compliance.
7. Final Walk-Through & Occupancy
Once construction is complete, we perform a detailed walkthrough with you and the landlord. Any final adjustments are completed before occupancy is approved. Our goal is to deliver a space that is ready for business from day one.
Construction & Execution
Once permits and approvals are secured, Nexvan transitions seamlessly into the construction phase. Tenant improvement projects often involve tight timelines and occupied buildings, which is why we prioritize efficiency, safety, and minimal disruption.
Our TI construction scope typically includes:
Demolition & Preparation
Remove existing partitions, finishes, or outdated systems while maintaining safety and protecting common areas shared with other tenants.
Space Reconfiguration
Building new walls, partitions, and layouts according to approved plans, optimizing functionality for offices, retail, restaurants, or medical facilities.
Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing (MEP) Upgrades
Modifying or upgrading HVAC, lighting, plumbing, and fire suppression systems to meet current codes and your business’s specific needs.
Fire & Life Safety Integration
Coordinating fire alarm, sprinkler, and emergency systems in compliance with municipal fire departments and building bylaws.
Interior Finishes
High-quality installation of flooring, ceilings, millwork, paint, and specialty finishes that reflect your brand identity and enhance customer or employee experience.
Specialty Installations
Incorporating business-specific elements such as commercial kitchens, medical gas systems, retail displays, or IT/server rooms.
Supervision & Coordination
Our project managers and site supervisors remain actively engaged on site, ensuring that trades perform to Nexvan’s standards, inspections are passed, and schedules are maintained.
Our Commitment During TI Construction:
Minimal Downtime, we understand that every day matters for business, so we phase work and coordinate after-hours when required.
Compliance First, all work is executed to meet or exceed BC Building Code, Vancouver Building By-law, and fire/life safety standards.
Transparency, You receive regular updates with progress reports, timelines, and cost tracking.
Craftsmanship, even with speed, we never compromise on quality.
At Nexvan, TI construction isn’t just about building walls and finishes; it’s about creating a space that’s ready for business, compliant with regulations, and tailored to your unique operations.
