Before embarking on a new project, it’s important to know whether you need CAT A fit out or CAT B. Your chosen fit-out partner will be able to advise on the different elements involved, but in general they are defined as follows:
CAT A Fit-out
Commercial landlords will generally provide a building which has undergone a CAT A fit-out. In most cases this will include:
- Raised, access floors (in modern buildings)
- Ceilings
- Lighting (based on open plan layout)
- Basic floor covering (or a contribution to flooring of your choice)
- Basic decor to external walls
- Mechanical and Electrical services based on 1 person per 10m2
- Fire alarm based on an open plan layout
- Toilets
- Any shared services i.e. lifts/staircases
CAT B Fit-out
A CAT B office fit out and refurbishment generally follows the CAT A elements. It is usually the responsibility of the tenant to bring the building up to a Category B standard in order to provide useable office space. In most cases this will involve arranging and financing the installation of:
