Office fitout timelines depend on the size of the space, with small offices taking 1 to 2 weeks, medium offices taking 3 to 6 weeks, and large or complex projects taking 6 to 16 weeks. These durations refer to the construction phase and do not include design or approval time.
Design and approvals typically add 6 to 10 weeks to the project before any physical construction begins.
Construction timelines by office size
Small offices under 50sqm typically take 1 to 2 weeks. Medium offices between 50 to 200sqm generally take 3 to 6 weeks, while large or complex fitouts over 200sqm take 6 to 16 weeks. Progressive Corporate provides a clear timeline before work begins so there are no surprises during construction.
The cost of timeline pressure
Urgent projects increase costs because trades must work overtime and on weekends for penalty rates. Materials often need to be expedited and decisions are rushed to meet a fixed lease date. Providing a lead time of 3 to 6 months generally results in a higher quality fitout at a lower total cost.
Permits and regulatory requirements
Building approval is mandatory for every commercial office fitout to prevent legal and safety issues. Some projects require additional fire engineering reports, accessibility compliance upgrades, or council planning approvals. These requirements are not optional and your contractor should handle them as part of the scope.
Avoiding common timeline mistakes
Starting without a clear brief often leads to results that miss the mark and cause expensive changes. Underestimating the timeline is a common error, as design and approvals alone can take 6 to 10 weeks. A professional design consultation ensures these steps are locked in before the build starts.
Managing the handover process
Practical completion is reached when the fitout is finished and the space is ready for occupation. Following this, a defects liability period of 3 to 12 months allows the contractor to fix any items that do not meet specifications. All as-built drawings and warranties are handed over at this point.
Using staged fitouts to manage timing
Staged fitouts allow a business to complete the project in phases to spread costs and manage time. This is a practical option for companies that cannot afford a full stop in operations. It allows priority areas, such as reception and meeting rooms, to be delivered first.
Frequently asked questions
Does the construction timeline include the design phase?
No, the construction timeline is separate from the design and approval phase, which can add 6 to 10 weeks to the process.
Can I speed up the fitout if my lease starts soon?
Yes, but urgency increases costs due to penalty rates for overtime and the need to expedite materials.
What happens if building approvals are skipped?
Skipping building permits and approvals creates serious legal and safety problems for the business and the property.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- What is included in the quote regarding labour, furniture, and installation?
- Who is responsible for handling the building permits and landlord approvals?
- Are design fees and structural engineering reports separate from the construction costs?