Cat A vs. Cat B Fit-Out – What’s the Difference?

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Discover the differences between Cat A and Cat B fit-outs. Fraser Bond offers expert guidance on office refurbishments in London.

Cat A vs. Cat B Fit-Outs: Understanding Office Fit-Out Types

When designing or refurbishing an office, it’s essential to understand the difference between Cat A and Cat B fit-outs. These terms describe different levels of office completion and impact both landlords and tenants when preparing or occupying a space.

At Fraser Bond, we provide expert consultancy for Cat A and Cat B fit-outs in London, ensuring businesses and property owners achieve high-quality, functional office spaces.

What Is a Cat A Fit-Out?

A Category A (Cat A) fit-out is the first stage of an office refurbishment, creating a functional but unfinished space that allows for tenant customization. It provides basic infrastructure but lacks internal design elements such as partitions, furniture, and branding.

What’s Included in a Cat A Fit-Out?

Raised access flooring – Ready for cabling and customization.
Suspended ceilings & standard lighting – Basic office lighting.
Heating, ventilation & air conditioning (HVAC) – Functional but unoptimized for specific office layouts.
Fire alarms & smoke detectors – Essential safety compliance.
Basic internal finishes – Painted walls and standard flooring.
Restrooms & plumbing – Basic facilities in place.

What’s NOT Included in a Cat A Fit-Out?

Partitioned offices or meeting rooms – Space remains open-plan.
Tenant branding & décor – No custom finishes or company branding.
Furniture & workstations – No desks, chairs, or office equipment.
Breakout areas & kitchenettes – These are typically added in the next phase.

What Is a Cat B Fit-Out?

A Category B (Cat B) fit-out takes a Cat A space and customizes it to meet the needs of a specific tenant. This phase includes everything required for employees to start working in the space.

What’s Included in a Cat B Fit-Out?

Partitioning & Office Layout Design – Creating meeting rooms, private offices, and open-plan areas.
Branded Décor & Wall Finishes – Custom color schemes, artwork, and company logos.
Office Furniture & Workstations – Desks, chairs, reception areas, and breakout zones.
IT Infrastructure & AV Equipment – High-speed internet, network cabling, and smart office solutions.
Kitchen & Breakout Areas – Staff amenities, including tea points and relaxation spaces.
Acoustic & Lighting Enhancements – Custom lighting and noise-reduction solutions.

Cat A vs. Cat B Fit-Outs: Key Differences

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

Who Needs a Cat A or Cat B Fit-Out?

Cat A Fit-Outs Are Ideal For:

  • Landlords & Developers – Preparing office spaces for leasing to new tenants.
  • Property Investors – Upgrading commercial spaces to attract premium tenants.
  • Businesses Moving to New Offices – Setting up a functional base before full customization.

Cat B Fit-Outs Are Ideal For:

  • Tenants Moving into a Cat A Space – Customizing the space to match business needs.
  • Companies Rebranding or Expanding – Updating office layouts and branding.
  • Organizations Enhancing Workplace Efficiency – Optimizing space for productivity and employee well-being.

How Fraser Bond Can Help

Fraser Bond specializes in Cat A and Cat B fit-outs in London, offering tailored solutions for landlords, property developers, and businesses. Our services include:

  • Office Fit-Out Consultation – Helping businesses choose the right fit-out type.
  • Contractor Sourcing – Connecting clients with top office fit-out specialists.
  • Project Management – Overseeing design, planning, and execution.

Transform Your Office Today

Looking for Cat A or Cat B fit-out services in London? Contact Fraser Bond today for expert guidance and high-quality office fit-out solutions.