Fit-out
The interior work that turns a base building into usable space - split into CAT A landlord base-build and CAT B tenant-specific fit-out.
A new commercial building is often handed over as a shell with core services in place but no finished interior. CAT A fit-out is the landlord's base finish - raised floors, ceilings, basic mechanical and electrical, and common areas - bringing the space to a lettable standard. CAT B is the tenant's own fit-out - their layout, branding, joinery, meeting rooms and specialist services. The two are procured separately, often by different parties at different times.
Fit-out is a distinct wave of work after the main build, with its own buyers. Knowing whether a space is at CAT A or CAT B stage tells joinery, finishes and services suppliers which door to knock on.
PlanningLeads tags commercial building type and works so you can distinguish base-build activity from tenant fit-out, at organisation and area level.
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Common questions
CAT A is the landlord's base finish that makes a space lettable; CAT B is the tenant's own fit-out to their specific layout and branding.
CAT A is usually the landlord's cost; CAT B is generally the tenant's. They are often procured separately.
CAT A is part of, or just after, base-build completion; CAT B follows once a tenant is signed and has designed their space.
Related terms
This is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. Planning rules carry conditions and exceptions - always verify a specific case against the official source or a planning professional before acting.