When planning a new office space or commercial refurbishment, one of the first things you’ll come across is the terms CAT A and CAT B fit-outs. But what do they mean, and how do you know which one your project needs? Understanding the difference between CAT A and CAT B fit-outs can help you plan your project more effectively.
At M7 London, we understand the importance of reliable electrical installations and well-coordinated commercial projects. In this guide, we’ll explain what each fit-out involves, the key differences between them and why electrical planning is an important part of the process.
What Is a CAT A Fit-Out?
A Category A (CAT A) fit-out involves preparing a commercial space so that it is ready for a tenant to customise and occupy. It typically focuses on the essential infrastructure and finishes needed to provide a functional, usable space. CAT A fit-outs are commonly commissioned by landlords and developers who want to present an office in a suitable condition for prospective tenants.
Depending on the building and the agreed specification, a CAT A fit-out may include:
- Basic flooring and ceiling finishes.
- Raised access floors and suspended ceilings.
- Base-build lighting and electrical installations.
- Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
- Fire detection and other building services.
- Basic power distribution and electrical infrastructure.
The exact scope varies from project to project. Some buildings may already have much of this infrastructure in place, while others require substantial installation or refurbishment work.
Why Are CAT A Fit-Outs Important?
A well-planned CAT A fit-out provides the foundations for a functional commercial environment. It can make a property more attractive to prospective tenants while ensuring that key building services are in place for the next stage of development.
Electrical systems are a particularly important consideration. Lighting, power distribution and other electrical infrastructure need to be planned around the building’s intended use and coordinated with the wider construction programme. Getting these elements right early can help reduce the need for avoidable changes when a tenant begins planning their own layout.
What Is a CAT B Fit-Out?
A Category B (CAT B) fit-out takes a commercial space and adapts it to meet the specific requirements of the business that will occupy it. While a CAT A fit-out provides the basic infrastructure, a CAT B fit-out focuses on creating a workspace that reflects the tenant’s operational needs, brand identity and working environment.
Depending on the brief, a CAT B fit-out may include:
- Office partitions and meeting rooms.
- Bespoke lighting and electrical installations.
- Additional power outlets and data cabling.
- Reception areas and breakout spaces.
- Kitchenettes and staff facilities.
- Branded finishes and internal design features.
- Specialist electrical requirements for equipment and technology.
For retail premises, the equivalent tenant fit-out may involve display lighting, point-of-sale power supplies, feature installations and electrical provisions specific to the business.
Why Are CAT B Fit-Outs Important?
Every business uses its workspace differently. An open-plan office may need flexible lighting and extensive data connectivity, while a customer-facing environment may prioritise feature lighting, reception areas and branded interiors.
A CAT B fit-out allows these requirements to be incorporated into the space.
Electrical planning is essential at this stage. Lighting positions, socket locations, equipment loads and data requirements should all be considered alongside the proposed layout. Early coordination with the electrical contractor can help identify potential issues before installation work begins.
CAT A vs CAT B: What’s the Difference?
Although both types of fit-out contribute to creating a usable commercial space, they serve different purposes.
| Feature | CAT A Fit-Out | CAT B Fit-Out |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Provides the basic building infrastructure | Customises the space for the occupier |
| Typical client | Landlord or developer | Tenant or occupying business |
| Lighting | Base-build lighting | Task, feature and bespoke lighting |
| Electrical works | Core distribution and basic power provision | Additional power, specialist installations and tenant requirements |
| Layout | Generally open or minimally configured | Tailored to the business’s needs |
| Finishes | Basic or landlord-standard finishes | Tenant-specific finishes and branding |
| End result | A space ready for tenant customisation | A workspace configured for its intended use |
It’s important to remember that these categories are industry conventions rather than fixed specifications. The precise scope depends on the lease, the landlord’s specification, the tenant’s requirements and the condition of the existing building.
The Importance of Electrical Installations in Commercial Fit-Outs
Electrical installations play a major role in both CAT A and CAT B projects. During a CAT A fit-out, the focus may be on establishing the core electrical infrastructure, including distribution boards, lighting, power supplies and associated building services. Whereas during a CAT B fit-out, the emphasis often shifts towards adapting those systems to support the tenant’s layout, equipment and day-to-day operations. This can involve additional lighting, new socket outlets, power for meeting rooms, data infrastructure and electrical supplies for specialist equipment.
How Much Does a CAT A or CAT B Fit-Out Cost?
The cost of a commercial fit-out depends on several factors, and there is no single price that applies to every project. Key considerations include:
- The size and condition of the premises.
- The existing electrical infrastructure and building services.
- The amount of refurbishment or new installation work required.
- The specification of lighting, power and other systems.
- The complexity of the proposed layout.
- Site access, working hours and programme constraints.
- The level of finishes and any specialist requirements.
CAT B projects may involve additional tenant-specific features and finishes, but the relative cost of each stage depends on the scope. A CAT A project involving substantial base-build infrastructure can also require significant investment. For an accurate estimate, it’s advisable to establish the project requirements early and obtain quotations based on a clearly defined scope of works.
Looking for Electrical Support for Your Commercial Fit-Out?
At M7 London, we provide electrical services to support commercial projects. We understand the importance of working alongside clients, developers and contractors to help deliver projects safely, professionally and in line with the agreed requirements. If you’re planning a CAT A or CAT B fit-out, then get in touch with M7 London to discuss your upcoming project and find out how we can make it hassle free.
Telephone: 07498 294 483
Website: www.m7london.co.uk/#contact
Email: estimating@m7london.co.uk