A comprehensive office fitout quote should include design, project management, and construction costs such as partitions, flooring, and services. It typically excludes IT hardware, external branding, relocation costs, and temporary accommodation.
Do not assume a service is covered unless it is explicitly written in the scope of work.
What a construction quote usually covers
A professional quote includes end to end delivery from space planning to practical completion. This covers the installation of partitions, flooring, and ceilings along with essential electrical, hydraulic, and fire services. Progressive Corporate also manages all necessary building permits and council approvals to ensure the project meets the National Construction Code.
Costs often missing from fitout quotes
Many business owners forget to budget for IT hardware, external signage, and relocation costs. These items are generally excluded from construction quotes because they are operational expenses rather than structural works. Including these in a separate total project budget prevents unexpected financial pressure during the handover.
How to avoid budget blowouts
Holding a 10 to 15% contingency is standard practice to manage unforeseen variations during construction. It is also critical to compare at least three quotes based on the exact same scope of work. This ensures you are comparing like for like rather than different levels of specification or quality.
What a Cat A versus Cat B fitout costs
A Cat A fitout is the base build provided by the landlord, which typically covers services, ceilings, and floors. A Cat B fitout is the tenant’s specific layout, including partitions, joinery, and furniture. Your quote must clearly state which category is being priced to avoid gaps in the project scope.
Strip out and make good obligations
A strip out involves removing the existing fitout before new construction can begin. Similarly, make good is the process of returning a tenancy to its original condition at the end of a lease. These costs are often listed separately and can create significant liability if they are not properly documented.
Getting a realistic cost estimate
Prepare a detailed brief including headcount and required room types before requesting any pricing. Progressive Corporate uses this data to develop tailored proposals and realistic cost estimates. This process ensures the final space is functional and aligned with your specific business goals.
Frequently asked questions
What is a warm shell?
A warm shell is a base build where basic services like power and air conditioning are already connected. It is ready for the tenant to begin their specific fitout.
Who manages the building approvals?
The head contractor usually manages building permits and liaises with local councils. Progressive Corporate handles this process to ensure the project meets all regulatory requirements.
Where should I prioritise my budget?
Focus investment on reception areas and meeting rooms to make the best impression. Utility rooms and back of house storage can be completed to a basic standard.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- Does this quote include the full cost of the strip out and make good of the existing space?
- Are there any provisional sums or PC rates for items not yet fully specified in the brief?
- Is the quote based on a confirmed CAD floorplan or a preliminary sketch?