10 Things to Consider When Leasing a Space for Your Medspa

Opening a medspa is an exciting step—but before you start dreaming about your signature Hydrafacial package or velvet waiting chairs, there’s one major decision to make: where will your medspa call home?

Leasing the right commercial space is crucial. The wrong choice can limit your growth, cost you unexpected expenses, or even stop you from opening at all. The right choice? It sets you up for long-term success, steady foot traffic, and smooth operations.

Here are the top 10 things to consider when leasing a space for your medical spa—so you can avoid costly mistakes and build your dream business on solid ground.

1. Location and Accessibility

Let’s be real: no one wants to get Botox in a sketchy alleyway.

Proximity to Your Ideal Client

Choose a location where your target demographic lives, works, or plays. Urban neighborhoods, wellness districts, and upscale suburbs are great spots for medspas. Bonus points if you're near gyms, dermatology offices, or high-end salons.

Visibility & Foot Traffic

A space with strong visibility (think: street-facing windows or signage) can boost walk-ins and brand recognition. A gorgeous space hidden in a maze of office suites? Not so much.

Parking, Please

Ensure the space offers ample, convenient parking for both clients and staff. Remember: many of your clients may be in heels, recovering from treatment, or visiting during lunch breaks—they won’t hike six blocks to glow.

2. Zoning and Regulatory Compliance

Not all commercial spaces are medspa-ready—even if they look perfect.

Check the Zoning

Confirm that the property is zoned for medical or personal care services. Some areas restrict procedures involving needles or lasers, so work with your broker and check local ordinances.

Building Codes & Licensing

Ensure the space meets local health department, fire, and ADA requirements. You may need upgrades like ventilation, sinks in each treatment room, or private consultation areas to stay compliant.

3. Lease Terms and Flexibility

Before you fall in love with a space, fall in love with the lease.

Understand the Duration

Startups may benefit from a shorter initial lease with renewal options, while more established clinics can negotiate longer terms for lower rates.

Know Your Costs

Review base rent, CAM fees (Common Area Maintenance), utilities, and rent escalation clauses. Know exactly how much you'll be paying now—and in three years.

 Protect Your Exit

Look for early termination clauses or subleasing options, just in case you outgrow the space or need to pivot your business.

4. Functional Layout and Design

A pretty space is nice. A functional, client-friendly layout is essential.

Create Flow

Ensure the floor plan allows for:

• A welcoming reception area

• Private treatment rooms

• A discrete checkout or rebooking zone

• Staff-only areas for breaks or storage

Think Vertical

Check ceiling height for medical equipment needs and design goals. Tall ceilings can make a space feel more open and luxurious—great for client experience and brand image.

5. Infrastructure and Utilities

Your medspa equipment isn’t going to run itself—make sure the space can keep up.

HVAC & Ventilation

Modern medspas need climate-controlled environments for sanitation and comfort. Outdated systems could be a health hazard (and a financial drain).

Plumbing & Power

Verify that plumbing and electrical systems can support lasers, autoclaves, medical sinks, and spa devices. Retrofitting can be expensive if not accounted for early.

6. Tenant Improvements (TI)

Chances are, you’ll need to renovate. Who pays? That’s where Tenant Improvement allowances come in.

Estimate the Build-Out

Factor in the cost of:

• Walls and partitions

• Treatment sinks

• Lighting and ambiance

• Equipment installation

Negotiate TI Contributions

Many landlords offer TI allowances to help cover these costs. Ask about reimbursement terms, deadlines, and what improvements must be left behind if you leave.

7. Insurance and Legal Protection

The lease may require it—but even if it doesn’t, you need it.

General & Professional Liability

Carry insurance that covers accidents, property damage, and malpractice. Your lease may mandate a minimum coverage level—so read the fine print.

Indemnity Clauses

Understand what you’re responsible for in the event of damage, injury, or legal issues. If possible, limit your personal liability and negotiate shared responsibility clauses for common areas.

8. Parking and Accessibility

Yes, we mentioned parking—but it’s worth repeating.

Client-Friendly Access

Make sure there are dedicated, accessible parking spots close to your entrance. If your space is on an upper floor, confirm elevator access or ADA-compliant ramps.

Public Transportation

If your medspa is in an urban area, proximity to bus stops, subway stations, or rideshare hubs can help attract clients who don’t drive.

9. Safety and Environmental Factors

No one wants their dream spa to become a nightmare building.

Building Safety

Check for required safety features like sprinkler systems, fire alarms, emergency exits, and well-lit walkways. Ask about maintenance responsibilities for HVAC, plumbing, and structure.

Environmental Concerns

Look for red flags like mold, water damage, asbestos, or nearby environmental hazards. These issues can delay your opening—and drive clients away.

10. Branding and Aesthetic Fit

Your space should look and feel like your brand.

 The Right Vibe

Does the building align with your brand image—modern, calming, high-end, clinical? Clients form impressions the moment they walk in. Make sure your space reflects the experience you want them to have.

 Signage Opportunities

Ask about exterior signage rights. Clear, visible signage builds recognition and can dramatically increase foot traffic. Also consider digital signage, window decals, and interior branding elements.

Final Thoughts: Choose a Space That Supports Your Vision

Leasing a space for your medspa is about more than square footage—it’s about building the foundation for your future success.

By considering these 10 critical factors, you’ll not only avoid costly surprises, but set your business up for long-term growth, client satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

So take your time, ask questions, and remember: the right space doesn’t just house your business—it helps it thrive.

Need Help Marketing Your New Medspa?

Once you've locked in your dream space, it's time to bring clients through the door. At Medspa Millions, we help new and growing medspas generate leads, fill their schedule, and build lasting client relationships through digital marketing and automation.

👉 Book a free strategy session today and let us help you grow from day one.