A Category A (Cat A) fit-out is a crucial stage in the development of commercial office spaces, providing a functional yet blank canvas for future tenants. This type of fit-out ensures that a workspace is fully operational with essential infrastructure while allowing businesses to customize the interior to their specific needs.
At Fraser Bond, we connect property owners, landlords, and developers with leading Cat A fit-out specialists in London, ensuring high-quality finishes and compliance with building regulations.
A Cat A fit-out is the basic level of office preparation that includes fundamental building systems and finishes but lacks tenant-specific design elements such as furniture, branding, or partitions. This allows future occupants to tailor the space to their operational and aesthetic needs.
A standard Cat A fit-out typically includes:
✅ Raised access flooring – For flexible wiring and cabling solutions.
✅ Suspended ceilings & lighting – Standard office lighting systems.
✅ Basic heating, ventilation & air conditioning (HVAC) – Climate control for a comfortable environment.
✅ Fire alarms & smoke detectors – Compliance with safety regulations.
✅ Basic internal finishes – Painted walls, basic flooring, and ceilings.
✅ Plumbing & restrooms – Standard facilities for tenants.
✅ Electrical outlets & IT infrastructure – Power points and basic network setup.
A Cat A fit-out does not include:
❌ Partitioned offices or meeting rooms – These are part of a Cat B fit-out.
❌ Tenant-specific branding & décor – No custom colors, graphics, or finishes.
❌ Furniture & fixtures – No desks, chairs, or workstations.
❌ Breakout areas & kitchenettes – These are installed during the next phase.
| Feature | Cat A Fit-Out | Cat B Fit-Out |
|---|---|---|
| Flooring & Ceilings | Basic raised floors & suspended ceilings | Custom flooring & decorative ceilings |
| Lighting | Standard office lighting | Feature lighting, custom solutions |
| HVAC & Fire Systems | Basic heating, cooling & safety compliance | Additional climate control & security upgrades |
| Walls & Partitions | Open-plan space with painted walls | Partitioned offices, glass walls, and branding |
| Furniture & Décor | Not included | Workstations, furniture, and company branding |
A Cat A fit-out is ideal for:
✅ Increases Property Appeal – Makes offices market-ready for potential tenants.
✅ Provides Flexibility – Tenants can customize their office layout as needed.
✅ Ensures Compliance – Meets UK building regulations and safety standards.
✅ Cost-Effective Preparation – Avoids over-customization before leasing.
When selecting a contractor for your Cat A fit-out, consider:
Fraser Bond is a leading property consultancy in London, assisting landlords, developers, and investors in finding top-rated Cat A fit-out contractors. Our services include:
Looking for a Cat A fit-out in London? Contact Fraser Bond to connect with experienced contractors and transform your office space into a market-ready asset.
