Moving Back Home Is Not Without Risk

Home Office

With the recession putting pressure on increasingly scarce resources, many small businesses are foregoing leasing office space to return home. While this may result in cost savings, improved lifestyle and no commuting expense, there are several issues to consider. The first concerns compliance with your lease or homeowner’s association rules. You could inadvertently cause a violation of your lease or city codes. One issue that might be problematic is if your home-based business attracts a steady stream of visitors that may violate your reasonable use clause. Or constant shipments via UPS or FedEx for an eBay sales business could be considered a quality of life violation for your neighbors.  Some businesses, such as food-service businesses, could be considered health code violations and others may require special permits. So investigate the requirements for your business to make sure you are in compliance.