Planning · Updated 20 October 2026

In many cities, the fastest way to open an indoor padel centre is not to build a new hall, but to take over an existing one. Warehouses, logistics buildings and old industrial halls often have the large open floor space padel needs. But not every building works. A hall that is a few metres too low, or has columns in the wrong places, can ruin the business case. Here is the checklist to go through before you sign anything.

1. Clear height comes first

Height is the single most important check, because padel players lob constantly. The international padel federation (FIP) requires a minimum free height of 6 metres throughout the court and recommends 8 metres for new facilities, with no obstructions. Court builders commonly describe 7–8 metres as a practical commercial compromise; below 7 metres, high lobs become limited and the hall suits mainly recreational play.

Measure the clear height under the lowest point – beams, lights, sprinklers, ventilation ducts – not just the height to the roof. Ask for drawings and check on site.

2. Floor area and court layout

Each court has a playing area of 20 x 10 metres. On top of that you need space around the courts. Non-binding guidance from court builders suggests roughly 2–3 metres between courts side by side, around 2–4 metres between court ends, and about 2 metres between a court and the hall wall. Remember to add space for reception, changing rooms, a lounge and storage. See our guide to padel court dimensions and space.

Most commercial guidance points to at least 3–4 courts for an indoor centre to make the numbers work, depending on your business plan. Read how many courts you should build.

3. Columns and the roof structure

Check that full courts fit between the building’s columns, and that no beams, pipes or sprinklers hang into the playing zone. Columns in the wrong place can cost you a whole court. A structural engineer should also confirm that the roof structure can carry any new lighting and ventilation.

4. The floor slab

Padel courts are anchored to the floor, so the slab matters. Court builder guidance typically asks for a load-bearing reinforced concrete slab of at least 12 cm, concrete grade C25/30 or better, and a flatness of no more than 3 mm deviation over 3 metres across the playing area. Joints should be sealed before the turf goes down. If the slab is uncertain, a core drill test can tell you what you are working with. Your court supplier’s technical specifications will state the exact requirements.

5. Light, air and sound

• Lighting: glare-free and even, with no fittings hanging low over the court. See our lighting guide.
• Ventilation and temperature: intensive sport creates heat and moisture. Check the roof for condensation risk and plan ventilation and heating.
• Noise: ball impact and music carry. Check the distance to homes and neighbouring businesses.

6. Permits, fire safety and escape routes

Turning a warehouse into a sports venue is often a change of use, which may need a permit from the local authority. Escape routes must still work with courts in place, and fire safety – detection, sprinklers, exit signs and emergency lighting – must be approved for a building with many visitors. Final limits are set by your architect, fire consultant and local authority, not by the court supplier. In the UK, for example, building control is required for fully enclosed indoor structures. Read our guide to permits for a padel centre.

7. The lease

Courts are a long-term investment. Make sure the lease is long enough to earn back the fit-out, allows sports use, and states who pays for changes to the building.

Frequently asked questions

How high does a warehouse need to be for padel?

FIP rules require at least 6 metres of free height over the whole court and recommend 8 metres for new facilities. Many operators aim for 7–8 metres.

Can padel courts be installed on an existing concrete floor?

Often yes, if the slab is strong and flat enough. Court builders typically ask for at least 12 cm reinforced concrete and no more than 3 mm deviation over 3 metres.

Does Padel Provider handle the building conversion?

No. We deliver and install the padel courts and provide technical specifications. The building, permits and fit-out are handled by you and your local contractors.

Sources: FIP Rules of Padel (padelfip.com); Padel Creations, “Hall requirements for indoor padel”; LTA, Padel Court Construction Guidance Note 2025.