What is a Cat A Fit Out
A Category A (Cat A) fitout turns a bare shell into a blank canvas ready for tenant fitout. This critical stage sets up the basic infrastructure and systems that make up the backbone of any commercial space.
In contrast, a Cat B office fitout is customised to the client’s specific requirements, adding furniture and design elements to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing workspace. Whether you’re building a multi-storey office block or a large warehouse facility, a professional Cat A fitout is essential for creating marketable commercial space.
Understanding the concept of ‘fit out category’ is crucial, as it categorises office fit-outs into Cat A and Cat B, each signifying different levels of completion and customisation in the office design and furnishing process.
The Difference Between Cat A and Cat B Fit-Outs
When it comes to office fit-outs, understanding the distinction between Cat A and Cat B fit-outs is crucial for making the right choice for your business needs.
A Cat A fit-out provides a basic level of fit-out, transforming an empty shell into a blank canvas. This includes essential services such as raised floors, suspended ceilings, and basic mechanical and electrical services. Typically provided by the landlord or developer, a Cat A fit-out prepares the space for tenants to customise according to their specific requirements.
In contrast, a Cat B fit out is a more comprehensive process that involves designing and building a fully operational workplace tailored to a client’s unique specifications. This includes everything from partitioning rooms to selecting furniture and artwork. A Cat B fit out is usually carried out by a company before they move into a new office, ensuring the space meets their exact needs.
In summary, the main difference between Cat A and Cat B lies in the level of customisation and completion. While Cat A fitouts provide a bare shell space, Cat B fitouts deliver a fully operational and customised workspace.
Benefits of Working with a Fit-Out Contractor
Partnering with a professional fit out contractor can bring numerous benefits to your business. Here are some of the key advantages:
Expertise: Fit out contractors possess extensive experience and knowledge in designing and building office spaces. They can offer valuable insights and advice on creating a functional and efficient workspace.
Time-saving: By handling all aspects of the fit out process, from design to completion, fit out contractors save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on your core business activities.
Cost-effective: Fit out contractors can help you stay within budget by providing cost-effective solutions and negotiating with suppliers on your behalf.
Stress-free: By managing the entire fit-out process, fit-out contractors minimise stress and disruption to your business, ensuring a smooth and efficient project execution.
Working with a fit out contractor ensures that your office fit out is completed to the highest standards, on time, and within budget.
Our Category A Fit Out Services
Core Electrical and Mechanical
Our electrical infrastructure combines LED lighting with emergency backup, motion sensors, and zonal controls for maximum efficiency. We also install smart climate control through energy-efficient HVAC systems, including air conditioning.
Power distribution systems include:
Three-phase power distribution networks designed for maximum efficiency and reliability include primary and secondary distribution boards, sub-metering systems, and power factor correction equipment.
Industrial-grade uninterruptible power supply (UPS) installation with the automated switchover so critical systems keep running during power outages.
Structured cabling solutions, including Cat6a/7 data cabling, fibre optic backbones and dedicated server room infrastructure for modern business communications
Emergency lighting and backup power solutions to BS 5266
Scalable electrical infrastructure
Socket outlet installation with clean power for sensitive equipment
Lightning protection and surge protection
Earthing and bonding to current regulations
Interior Elements
Our interior solutions provide flexible, efficient, and future-proof space for all commercial environments. We take a holistic approach to office design, ensuring that ceiling and flooring systems work in harmony with all electrical services to create functional and aesthetically pleasing workspaces.
Ceiling Infrastructure:
Suspended systems with services integrated
Acoustic treatment for sound control
Emergency and functional lighting integrated.
Our flooring solutions are designed for specific commercial uses:
Heavy-duty raised access flooring for offices
Anti-static solutions for technical areas
Industrial grade for warehouse spaces
Cable management infrastructure
Each installation is designed to be maintenance and modification-friendly so your space can adapt to your business needs.
Technical Compliance and Standards
As NICEIC-approved contractors, we ensure the highest level of electrical safety and compliance on every project we do. Our work meets all current regulations and industry best practices.
Compliance:
Full compliance with BS 7671 (18th Edition Wiring Regulations)
Compliance with all relevant British Standards
Full electrical safety certification
EPC optimisation
Quality:
NICEIC assessments and audits regular
Continuous professional development for all technicians
Internal quality control procedures are rigorous
Testing and certification protocols comprehensive
Planning Your Office Fit Out
Planning your office fit out is a crucial step in creating a functional and efficient workspace. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Budget Considerations
Establishing a realistic budget is essential for a successful office fit out. Here are some factors to consider when setting your budget:
Design fees: Consider the cost of hiring an architect or designer to create a bespoke design for your office space.
Construction costs: Consider the cost of materials, labour, and equipment needed to complete the fit-out.
Furniture and fixture costs: Consider the cost of purchasing new furniture, fixtures, and equipment for your office space.
Additional services: Include the cost of any further services, such as IT infrastructure or audiovisual systems.
Timeline and Project Management
Creating a realistic timeline and project management plan is crucial for a successful office fit out. Here are some factors to consider:
Establish a realistic timeline: When setting a realistic timeline for the fit-out project, consider the complexity of the work and the availability of materials and labour.
Coordinate with stakeholders: Ensure that all stakeholders, including contractors, suppliers, and employees, are aware of the project timeline and milestones.
Regularly update stakeholders: Keep stakeholders informed of progress and any changes to the project timeline.
Address concerns and issues: Promptly and efficiently address any problems or issues that arise during the fit out process.
By carefully planning your office fit out, you can create a workspace that meets your business needs and supports your team’s productivity and well-being.
Why RJ Electrical Contractors?
We have decades of experience in commercial installations, so we know what works. Our team understands commercial property requirements, so we deliver more.
Industry Expertise:
Commercial and industrial installation expertise
Experience across multiple property types
Technical capabilities
Large-scale project track record
We demonstrate our commitment to excellence through:
Dedicated project management teams
Transparent communication and reporting
Competitive pricing structures
Value engineering
We deliver projects that combine innovation with reliability, ensuring that your commercial space meets today’s needs and tomorrow’s demands.
How to Get Started
Getting started with RJ Electrical Contractors is simple. Whether you need electrical services for a commercial property, industrial facility, or residential home, our team is here to help.
- Contact Us: Reach out to us via phone, email, or our website to schedule an initial consultation. We will discuss your needs and provide a free, no-obligation quote.
- Please schedule an Appointment: We will work with you to find a convenient time for the work to take place, ensuring minimal disruption to your operations.
- Receive Expert Service: Our qualified electricians will conduct all works with precision and care.
- Enjoy Peace of Mind: With RJ Electrical Contractors, you can rest assured that your electrical systems are safe, compliant, and in expert hands.
Get in Touch
Our Process
From Concept to Completion
Our streamlined process transforms your vision into a functional workspace, tailored to your needs. With our experienced team guiding each phase, we deliver exceptional results with minimal disruption.
Consultation
We start every project with a consultation phase that sets us up for success. Our team conduct a complete site survey and electrical infrastructure assessment to understand your property’s specific needs.
In our consultation, we cover:
Power requirement analysis and load calculations
Environmental impact and energy efficiency assessments
Budget framework with cost optimisation strategies
Project timeline with milestones
In this phase, we gain a deep understanding of stakeholder requirements and potential risks so that all aspects of your project are considered from the outset.
Design
Our design phase turns concepts into detailed plans that are ready for construction. We produce technical documentation, including:
CAD drawings
Component specifications and compliance documents
Integration with existing systems
Resource allocation and procurement schedules
We ensure compliance with building regulations and maintain open communication channels for client approvals, keeping you informed throughout the design phase.
Build
In build, we control every aspect of your project. Our installation programme includes:
Progress reports and milestone updates
Daily site management and supervision
Quality assurance inspections
Coordination with other contractors and stakeholders
For occupied buildings, we have strategies in place to minimise disruption while maintaining health and safety protocols. Our on-site team provides real-time problem-solving and technical support throughout the project.
Handover
Project completion is marked by our handover process, which starts with complete system testing and commissioning. We provide:
Essential Documents:
As-built drawings and specifications
Operation and maintenance manuals
Test certificates and compliance documents
Warranty information and support details
We don’t stop at project completion. We maintain your investment through proactive maintenance and support.
Who We Work With
Commercial property developers, industrial property owners, warehouse operators, office building landlords, and property management companies. We know each sector’s requirements and deliver more.
With RJ Electrical Contractors, you’re choosing a company that excels. Our history shows we can deliver Cat A fit-outs that add value to your property through modern, efficient systems and reduced operational costs.
Other Services
While Cat A fit-outs are a big part of our business, RJ Electrical Contractors offers a full range of electrical services for commercial properties. These include:
Cat B Fit-Outs: Once your Cat A fit-out is complete, we can also help with the electrical aspects of Cat B fit-outs so tenants can customise their space.
Maintenance: We offer ongoing maintenance to keep your systems running smoothly.
Energy Efficiency Audits and Upgrades: We can assess your building’s energy usage and recommend upgrades to save energy and costs.
Emergency Lighting: We design and install full emergency lighting systems for compliance and safety.
Fire Alarms: We install and maintain advanced fire detection and alarm systems.
Data Centres: We have experience in the specific electrical requirements of data centres.
RJ Electrical Contractors – your commercial electrical solution. From Cat A to maintenance and upgrades. We’ll keep you ahead of the electrical curve.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Yes, we have experience working in occupied buildings. We can work around the tenants, often working outside of office hours if required.
A: We design with flexibility and scalability in mind. We use the latest technology, provide excess capacity where possible and install infrastructure that can be easily expanded or upgraded in the future.
A: Yes, we can install the infrastructure for smart building technologies as part of a Cat A fitout. This can include energy management, security, and building automation systems.
CAT A FIT OUT SPECIALIST AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE
- Avon
- Bedfordshire
- Berkshire
- Buckinghamshire
- Cambridgeshire
- Cheshire
- Cornwall
- Cumbria
- Derbyshire
- Devon
- Dorset
- Durham
- Essex
- Gloucestershire
- Greater London
- Hampshire
- Herefordshire
- Hertfordshire
- Isle of Wight
- Kent
- Lancashire
- Leicestershire
- Lincolnshire
- Merseyside
- Norfolk
- Northamptonshire
- Northumberland
- Nottinghamshire
- Oxfordshire
- Rutland
- Schools
- Shropshire
- Somerset
- Staffordshire
- Suffolk
- Surrey
- Sussex
- Tyne and Wear
- Warwickshire
- West Midlands
- Wiltshire
- Worcestershire
- Yorkshire
