Cat A vs Cat B fit-out: what's the difference?

Quick answer: A Cat A fit-out is the landlord's base finish: ceilings, lighting, power and services ready for use. A Cat B fit-out is the tenant's own layout on top, such as meeting rooms, kitchens and branded finishes.

Cat A fit-out

Cat A is the basic finish a landlord usually provides to make a space ready for a tenant. It's a clean, functional blank canvas.

• Suspended ceilings.
• General lighting and emergency lighting.
• Power distribution and basic small power.
• Heating, cooling and ventilation.
• Finished walls, toilets and common areas.

Cat B fit-out

Cat B turns that blank space into a working office that suits the tenant. It's designed around how the business actually works.

• Partitions for meeting rooms and private offices.
• Extra power and data where people sit.
• Kitchens, breakout areas and reception.
• Feature ceilings, lighting and finishes.

Who pays for what

Usually the landlord pays for Cat A and the tenant pays for Cat B, but it depends on the lease. It's worth checking what's included before signing.

Cat A plus

Some landlords now offer Cat A plus: a space that's partly fitted with meeting rooms, kitchens and furniture, so tenants can move in quickly.

Keeping it simple

Whichever category you're working on, having electrics, ceilings and partitions handled by one contractor keeps the programme tighter and the finish consistent.

Need a hand?

EMS is a NAPIT registered commercial contractor working across London and the UK. Get a free quote and we'll come back to you quickly.

Related service: Ceilings & Partitioning