When your commercial lease nears its end, preparing your office for handover can be a complex and time-sensitive process. Whether you’re a London SME in an office or retail unit, early lease end planning is key to reducing costs, avoiding disputes, and ensuring a smooth exit.
What Is a Category A (CATA) Fit-Out?
A Category A fit-out provides the essential infrastructure of a commercial space.
This is typically the condition in which a landlord delivers the property to a tenant — or expects it to be returned at the end of the lease.
A CATA finish generally includes:
- Suspended ceilings and lighting
- Raised floors with floor boxes
- HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)
- Fire alarms and sprinkler systems
- Basic internal finishes (painted walls, power supply, etc.)
In other words, CATA provides the bare bones — a functional, empty shell ready for tenant customisation.
What Is a Category B (CATB) Fit-Out?
A Category B fit-out is where the space is tailored to the tenant’s brand, culture, and operational needs.
It includes all the design and finishing elements that make the office ready for day-to-day use, such as:
- Partitions and meeting rooms
- Furniture and fixtures
- Branded finishes and décor
- IT infrastructure and audiovisual equipment
- Kitchen and breakout areas
CATB fit-outs transform a CATA shell into a fully functioning workplace.
Why the Difference Matters at Lease End
When your lease ends, the reinstatement requirement often means you must return the property to its original Category A condition.
That means removing all Category B elements — such as partitions, flooring, and branding — and restoring lighting, ceilings, and finishes to their base specification.
Failing to understand this distinction can lead to expensive dilapidation claims.
That’s why early lease exit planning and advice from a dilapidation surveyor are so valuable.
How London Dilaps Ltd Supports Tenants and Landlords
We manage every aspect of CATA reinstatement — from initial surveys and cost planning to full project delivery.
Our experts ensure that reinstatement works meet lease requirements and are completed efficiently, on time, and within budget.
Get Expert Help with CATA and Lease-End Works
Whether you’re preparing to move out or take on a new space, we’ll help you understand your obligations and plan your fit-out or reinstatement with confidence.
📞 Contact London Dilaps Ltd to discuss your project today.