A commercial unit often needs a focused round of repairs and finishing work between tenants. Wall holes, paint marks, removed fixtures, loose hardware, damaged drywall and leftover mounting points can delay the next move-in if they are not organized into a clear turnover scope. SIR Renovation Group provides selected tenant turnover, move-in and move-out repair support for commercial properties in Toronto and the GTA.

What Is Commercial Tenant Turnover Work?

Tenant turnover work is the repair and preparation completed after one occupant leaves and before the next occupant takes possession. It can range from a short punch list to a larger refresh, depending on the condition of the space and the requirements of the incoming tenant.

Common Turnover Items

• Patching screw, anchor and mounting holes
• Drywall repair for minor wall damage
• Paint touch-ups or repainting selected areas
• Removal or installation of wall-mounted items
• Door, hinge, handle and lock-hardware adjustments
• Minor trim, baseboard and caulking repairs
• Selected fixture and accessory installation
• Shelving and storage-system adjustments
• Furniture disassembly or assembly where included in the scope
• Final cleanup of the immediate work areas

Start With a Turnover Punch List

The fastest way to organize a turnover is to create one list of visible issues and requested changes. Photos can help clarify quantities, wall condition, removed fixtures and access. For larger units, a walkthrough may be useful before the final scope is confirmed.

A Practical Turnover Sequence

1. Remove or identify items left behind

Confirm what is staying, what the next tenant needs, and what must be removed. Disposal or removal of large items should be discussed separately rather than assumed.

2. Repair walls and surfaces

Patch appropriate holes and minor drywall damage before final painting or touch-ups.

3. Address doors, hardware and fixtures

Check the agreed doors, handles, hinges, wall fixtures and accessories that need adjustment or replacement.

4. Complete finishing work

Painting, caulking, trim touch-ups and other finishing items can be completed once repairs are ready.

5. Review the completed scope

A final walkthrough or photo review can help confirm that the agreed turnover items were addressed before the next occupancy.

Move-In Preparation for a New Commercial Tenant

Incoming tenants may also need shelves, TVs, monitors, artwork, mirrors, signage supports, furniture or other non-structural items installed. These tasks can be reviewed with the turnover list so the space is prepared for the new use efficiently.

What May Require Separate Assessment?

Large demolition, structural changes, major electrical or plumbing work, HVAC changes, fire-alarm or fire-separation work, hazardous materials, and permit-controlled work require separate review and may require qualified trades or building approval.

Tenant Turnover FAQ

Can you work from a property manager’s punch list?

Yes. A written list with photos is a useful starting point for confirming the requested scope.

Can painting and drywall repair be included together?

Yes, when the repair area and painting requirements are confirmed as part of the same scope.

Can you prepare a unit for the next tenant?

Selected repair, touch-up, installation and finishing work can be completed to help prepare the unit. The exact scope depends on the condition of the property and the incoming tenant’s requirements.

Do you handle large commercial build-outs?

Major build-outs and regulated trade work require separate assessment. For smaller improvements, see our Commercial Services overview.