Category A fit-out

There is no standard definition for a category A fit out and it can vary from developer to developer. Most often, it describes the level of fit out provided by the developer to the landlord.

Typically, a Cat A fit out includes:

  • Raised floors and suspended ceilings.
  • Basic mechanical and electrical services.
  • Fire detection and protection services.
  • Internal surface finishes.
  • Blinds.

You quite often find that the developer will make a contribution to the tenant for the carpets, floor boxes and grommets, which are then installed as part of the tenants category B fit-out, rather than installing them during the category A works, as they are subject to damage and may not complement the tenants colour scheme.

Category B fit-out

This is the type of fit out that most people are more familiar with. A Category B fit out is conducted on a space where the external walls and basic flooring, ceilings, M&E services and shared toilets and lifts have been installed. It's like moving into a house and then installing your choice of flooring, lighting and decoration to make it your own personal space.

Typically, a Cat B fit out includes:

  • Partitioning.
  • Finishes and branding.
  • Carpeting.
  • Meeting rooms, conference rooms and break-out rooms.
  • Reception area.
  • Lighting.
  • Kitchen facilities.
  • IT and audio visual equipment.
  • Office furniture.

At Trevor Blake we carry out both Cat A fit-outs and Cat B fit-outs. Where a company is required to bring an office back to its Cat A condition for hand over to the landlord, we provide a dilapidations service which typically involves the stripping out of partitioning, flooring, decorating and furniture.

For further details you can view our detailed industry article here and to peruse our case studies which include Cat A and Cat B fit-out's click here. 

 We are industry experts with over 20 years of experience in office design, refurbishment and fit out specialists working within London, Surrey, Sussex and the South East. Email us at info@trevorblake.co.uk or call us directly on 01293 775509 and see how we can help you with your next project.