Fitting Out / Refurbishing
Fit Outs are normally defined as a CAT A or a CAT B.
Category A Fit Out (or CAT A) is the basic level of the buidling fit out, it will be fully functional but empty space. This is often how a building is left when newly constructed or after dilapidations by an exiting tenant. The interior has had the basic works hcarried out such as mechanical & electrical services (M&E), lighting, basic flooring, washrooms etc but no rooms / areas have been formed. How complete the propery is and to what specification is typically reflected by the rent figure offered.
A Category B Fit Out (or CAT B) will require the space to have works carried out to make it ready for an occupier, such as partitioning to create offices, meeting rooms, breakout or production areas. Installing power for equipment, altering the M&E services for divided up spaces, floor finishes, welfare facilities, furniture & fittings, blinds etc.
Fitting out spaces can be complex and there is more to it than meets the eye. For the best results the process requires careful design & planning and is best left to professionals to coordinate.
A refurbishment project involves the renovation or reimagining of a space which already exists and/or has already been used. This can involve the upgrading of services like lighting & HVAC, redecorating, new floorcoverings, introduction of branding etc. to update or modernise to the space and make it more suited to your business requirements.
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By speaking to a reputable fit out provider they can assess the state of the current space and advise what can be re-utilised and what needs to be altered or upgraded. Needless to say, the more you can retain and reuse the more cost-effective the project will be however you need to be certain that what is on site is fit for purpose to avoid furhter expense after your occupation.
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Whilst going through the fit out process is it also good to thingk abbout sevices such as utilities and telecoms etc. These are not services that can be arranged at the last minute and some items can take a surprisingly long time to implement depending on what service provider you are talking to and what you need. Therefore, the sooner you have these conversations the better as they will often dictate the fit-out process / move in date.
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Key Points to Remember
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Different buildings have different levels of existing fit out, make sure you research exactly what the building offers at an early stage.
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Engaging a specialiast fit out contractor will allow you to concentrate on other parts of your business.
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Refurbishing a property can be a cost effective way of acheiving a new office space but you need to make sure the services are fit for purpose before going down this route.
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Start the process of engaing telecomms and utility providers as soon as possible as this can dictate the programme of works and move in date.