Before You Sign the Lease
5
13
May 6, 2026
Key Takeaways
Zone First. Then Everything Else.
The Certificate of Occupancy Is Not Optional
Inspections Protect You as Much as They Regulate You
SBOSS is Here Before You Get to That Point
Pat highlighted that many of the costly mistakes entrepreneurs make around leases and inspections happen because they don’t know who to call. SBOSS exists to close that gap — connecting business owners with the right city contacts, resources, and guidance before they reach a point of no return.
Before You Sign the Lease reinforced what SBOSS has always believed: informed entrepreneurs make better decisions. When business owners understand the rules of the road before they start driving, they build businesses that last.
SBOSS remains committed to bringing this kind of practical, actionable information directly to the people who need it most. Montgomery’s business community deserves to know what they’re getting into — and to have someone in their corner who can help them navigate it.
"Know before you go. Once you sign, you're in — and getting out costs money. Do your homework first."
- Pat McGilberry, Chief of Inspections, City of Montgomery




























