The dynamism of Spain’s industrial and logistics market, with constant tenant changes and regulatory updates, is driving significant growth in the refurbishment and adaptation of industrial buildings, as they must be adjusted to new operational needs.
On April 10, 2025, Royal Decree 164/2025 of March 4, approving the Fire Safety Regulations for Industrial Establishments, was published in the Official State Gazette. Therefore, as set out in its twelfth final provision, one month after its publication the following versions of the RSCIEI and DB-SI will enter into force, establishing from that moment a six-month period during which these versions may be applied voluntarily, or the provisions of the 2004 RSCIEI or the DB-SI in force prior to this amendment may be applied.
For building owners, tenant changes represent a crucial opportunity to enhance the asset’s value and ensure its long-term competitiveness. The key lies in carrying out the necessary adaptations that enable the new tenant to start operations efficiently and safely, while also incorporating sustainability and energy-saving criteria demanded by new market trends.
Regarding the most important types of modifications and works that Solutec undertakes in our projects, we highlight:
● Modification and refurbishment of offices, restrooms and lifts: Office space requirements vary considerably between tenants. It may be necessary to reconfigure partitions, create new private offices or meeting rooms, upgrade electrical and communications installations, improve lighting and HVAC, and even refurbish windows, curtain walls and finishes to align with the new tenant’s corporate image and operational requirements.
● Adaptation or installation of new loading and unloading bays: Bays are critical points in logistics operations. The adaptation may include changing the number and layout of bays, installing new dock levellers or ramps to accommodate different vehicle types, improving weather protection systems, and optimising external access and vehicle circulation.
● Optimisation of access and circulation by creating openings in façades and party walls: Smooth movement of people and goods in and out of the building is essential. This may require modifying doors and gates, creating new pedestrian or vehicle access points, improving internal and external signage, and upgrading both floor slabs and asphalt surfaces to withstand the expected traffic.
● Compartmentation: Construction of walls or partitions to separate fire compartments, as well as protected lobbies.
● Improved thermal insulation: Good insulation in roofs, façades and floors significantly reduces heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, lowering HVAC demand and therefore energy costs.
● Repair of roofs and gutters, to prevent leaks and damp issues.
● Replacement of translucent panels: to improve natural lighting in the building.
● Replacement of lighting systems: Switching to LED lighting delivers considerable energy savings, as well as a longer service life and reduced maintenance needs. Adding occupancy sensors and lighting controls further optimises consumption.
● Installation of renewable energy: Installing photovoltaic solar panels on the roof can generate a significant portion of the building’s energy consumption, reducing dependence on the power grid and lowering the carbon footprint.
● Efficient water management systems: Implementing rainwater collection and reuse systems, as well as installing low-consumption taps and sanitaryware, contributes to sustainability and savings on water supply costs.
● Promoting sustainable mobility: Installing EV charging points and creating bicycle parking are details increasingly valued by companies committed to sustainability.
● Adjust the activity licence and comply with fire protection regulations.
● Obtain BREEAM® certification for facilities in extensions, refurbishments (capex) or in-use activities.
To carry out these types of improvements, Solutec has extensive experience in the sector and a multidisciplinary team of professionals (architects, engineers and technicians), which is essential to guarantee the success of our adaptations.
