Category A fit-out works
Rules of Thumb, Guidelines for building services (5th Edition) BG 9/2011, by Glenn Hawkins, published by BSRIA in 2011, states: ‘Category A fit-out works extend central services out on to floor plates and provide a background for Category B works. Category A works comprise services, life safety elements and basic fittings and finishes for the operation of lettable work space, including:
- Suspended ceilings
- Raised floors and skirtings
- Cooling and heating systems
- Office ventilation systems
- Open plan base lighting solution
- Life safety systems, such as fire alarms, sprinklers and emergency lighting
- Distribution boards
- Office carpet and floor boxes
- Blinds
- Basic statutory signage
- Basic security systems and wireways’
--BSRIA
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Category A fit-out works refer to a specific level of interior construction and finishing that is carried out within a commercial or office space before it is leased or occupied by a tenant. These works typically focus on creating a basic, functional, and visually neutral environment, providing a clean canvas for tenants to customize according to their specific needs and preferences. Category A fit-out works are usually undertaken by the building owner or developer. Here's an overview of what Category A fit-out works may involve:
- Installation of raised floors: Raised access floors are commonly used in commercial spaces to accommodate cabling and utility distribution beneath the floor surface.
- Suspended ceilings: Basic suspended ceiling systems are often installed to hide utilities and provide a uniform appearance.
- Installation of basic HVAC systems: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are installed to provide climate control within the space.
- Lighting and electrical outlets: Basic lighting fixtures and electrical outlets are provided to meet standard requirements.
- Fire safety systems: Installation of fire alarms, emergency lighting, and other necessary fire safety equipment.
- Basic wall finishes: Painting or applying a neutral-colored finish to walls to provide a clean appearance.
- Basic floor finishes: Installation of basic floor coverings such as carpet tiles or vinyl flooring.
- Doors and partitions: Basic internal doors and partition walls to create separate areas.
- Basic washroom facilities: Installation of basic toilet facilities with necessary plumbing and fixtures.
- Basic building management systems: Implementation of basic systems for monitoring and managing utilities and security.
The primary goal of Category A fit-out works is to create a functional and presentable space that meets standard requirements. The tenant who leases the space can then proceed with Category B fit-out works, which involve customization and enhancement of the space to align with their specific needs, branding, and design preferences. Category B fit-out works often include aspects such as specialized lighting, branding elements, custom partitioning, meeting rooms, breakout areas, and more.
It's important for both building owners and tenants to have a clear understanding of what is included in Category A fit-out works, as well as the transition to Category B, to ensure that the final space meets their expectations and requirements.