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How to Find an Office for Your New Medical Clinic in Canada
Takeaways
- Start with a clear idea of what you need today and 2 years from now
- Pick a location that fits your patients, not just your vision
- Don’t underestimate zoning, check early, not later
- Be honest about your budget and what you can grow into
- Never rush a lease, bring in a pro to help if you’re unsure
Step 1: Don’t Look for the “Perfect” Space, Look for the Right One for You
It’s easy to get caught up in trying to find the perfect space. But the truth is, “perfect” rarely exists. The real question is: What do you need right now to launch and grow comfortably?
Think about:
- How many rooms do you really need to start?
- Do you want something visible to walk-ins, or are you mostly by referral?
- Is parking going to be an issue?
- Can patients get there easily by public transit?
- Is there room to grow, or will you outgrow it in a year?
When I opened my first space, I started smaller than I thought I needed, and it was the best decision I could’ve made. It allowed me to grow into it instead of being buried in overhead right out of the gate.
Planning your clinic launch? Download the free Solopreneur Checklist to avoid costly setup mistakes.
Step 2: Choose a Location That Makes Sense, Not Just One That Looks Good on Paper
Sure, it’s tempting to pick a shiny new building or a trendy area. But take a step back and ask:
- Who are your patients?
- Where do they live, work, or hang out?
- Are there already clinics nearby offering the same thing?
- What does parking look like at 10 AM on a weekday?
Sometimes, the quieter suburban plaza beats the downtown high-rise. Visibility, accessibility, and convenience matter more than curb appeal. If your patients can’t find parking or feel like your clinic’s too far out of the way, they won’t come back.
Step 3: Know the Types of Spaces Available, and What You’re Signing Up For
There are a few kinds of spaces you’ll likely look at:
Medical Buildings
Pros: Already zoned, usually plug-and-play, other healthcare providers around
Cons: Expensive, limited flexibility in layout, you’re one of many
Street-Level Retail
Pros: High visibility, walk-in potential, lots of branding space
Cons: May need more renovations, more zoning hoops to jump through
Office Suites
Pros: Quiet, clean, good if you don’t rely on foot traffic
Cons: Often needs more investment to meet clinic standards (plumbing, layout, etc.)
For one of my colleagues, leasing space inside a wellness centre was the sweet spot. For me, I found a quiet corner unit in a retail plaza and made it my own. Neither option was perfect, but both worked.
Step 4: Always, Always Check Zoning
I can’t stress this enough: just because a space is available, doesn’t mean you can run a medical clinic there.
Before signing anything:
- Call your municipality
- Ask about zoning
- Find out if medical use is allowed in that unit
- Check accessibility and fire code requirements
If you fall in love with a space and then find out you can’t legally use it, that’s a costly mistake.
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Step 5: Don’t Rush the Lease
I know how exciting it is to find a place that “feels right.” But your lease is one of the most important business documents you’ll ever sign. Read every word. Better yet, get a lawyer who’s familiar with commercial leases, ideally in healthcare.
Here are a few things to double-check:
- What’s included in the rent?
- Can you renovate? Who pays for that?
- Are you allowed to sublease?
- How often can rent increase?
- What happens if you need to break the lease early?
Remember: a lease is a long-term relationship. Choose wisely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Zoning laws and health regulations vary by city and province. Always check with your local municipality first. Saves you time and money.
Most solo clinics do well in 800-1,200 sq. ft. If you’re adding more providers or services, consider 1,500+ sq. ft., but don’t overextend yourself early on.
Yes, especially one who’s worked with clinics or medical professionals before. They’ll know what to look out for, where to find suitable properties, and how to negotiate better terms.
Medical Disclaimer:
The information presented in this blog post is for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, treatment or a diagnosis, consult with a medical professional such as one suggested on this website. The Clinic Accelerator Inc. and the author of this page are not liable for the associated risks of using or acting upon the information contained in this article.