When planning a commercial refurbishment or preparing a workspace for new tenants, understanding the difference between CAT A and CAT B fit-outs is essential. Both play an important role in the lifecycle of a building, yet they serve very different purposes. At Truline CIS, we specialise in delivering both CAT A and CAT B fit-outs across the UK, helping landlords and businesses create high-quality, functional, and beautifully designed spaces.

What Is a CAT A Fit-Out?

A CAT A fit-out is the stage where the landlord prepares a commercial building to a basic, functional condition—ready for new tenants to move in and customize further. Think of it as providing the essential framework of an office.

A CAT A fit-out typically includes:

• Raised access flooring or subfloor installation

• Suspended ceilings and lighting

• Mechanical & electrical (M&E) services

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)

• Fire alarms, smoke detectors & safety systems

• Basic toilet facilities

• Internal finishes such as walls, doors & painting

The aim is to deliver a clean, compliant, and usable environment. It does not include specialist branding, furniture, décor, or layout design. For landlords, a CAT A fit-out increases property value, reduces vacancy time, and attracts high-quality tenants.

At Truline CIS, we provide full CAT A refurbishments, dilapidation works, and fast turnaround services that bring empty, outdated spaces back to life and ready for the market.

What Is a CAT B Fit-Out?

Once the tenant takes possession of a CAT A space, the next stage is the CAT B fit-out—the personalised, design-driven transformation of the workspace. This is where interior designers, joiners, and specialist fit-out contractors create a workspace that reflects the company’s brand, culture, and operational needs.

A CAT B fit-out includes:

• Space planning & workplace design

• Partitions, meeting rooms & breakout zones

• Bespoke joinery and reception desks

• Furniture supply & installation

• Flooring, décor & graphics

• IT networks, AV systems & data cabling

• Kitchen areas, tea points & collaboration spaces

• Lighting design customised for different zones

CAT B is all about experience, functionality, and identity. It transforms a blank canvas into a modern, efficient office tailored to the people who use it daily.

Truline CIS offers end-to-end CAT B solutions, from concept design to full refurbishment and aftercare—ensuring every detail supports productivity, comfort, and flexibility.

CAT A vs CAT B: Which Do You Need?

The choice depends on your role and requirements:

Landlords

You typically need a CAT A fit-out to provide a clean, lettable space. It helps attract tenants by showcasing the potential of the property.

Businesses / Tenants

You need a CAT B fit-out to create a workspace that supports your operations, brand, and employee wellbeing.

Many projects follow a sequence:
Dilapidation → CAT A Fit-Out → Tenant Moves In → CAT B Fit-Out

Truline CIS supports all stages, ensuring compliance, safety, and a high-quality finish.

Why Truline CIS for CAT A & B Fit-Outs?

• Full design & build expertise

• In-house joinery for bespoke furniture

• Sustainable material choices

• Skilled M&E and project management teams

• Fast, reliable turnaround

• Strong experience across Manchester, Liverpool & the UK

With Truline, you get more than a contractor—you get a partner committed to delivering spaces that work perfectly today and adapt to tomorrow.

Why Businesses Need CAT B Fit-Outs

• Enhances team productivity & workflow

• Reflects brand personality & culture

• Creates a comfortable and inspiring environment

• Supports hybrid working and modern space usage

• Boosts employee wellbeing and retention

• Enables better client experiences

• Improves space efficiency through smart planning

At Truline CIS, we take a user-first approach, designing workspaces that elevate business performance while maintaining visual appeal and durability.

CAT A vs CAT B – Key Differences

Together, CAT A and CAT B represent the full cycle of commercial space transformation.

The CAT A to CAT B Journey: How Truline Delivers It

Truline simplifies the process by offering full-service design, construction, and project delivery.

1. Survey & Consultation

We assess the existing space, identify needs, and evaluate building condition.

2. CAT A Works

Infrastructure installation, flooring, ceilings, lighting, HVAC, and compliance.

3. Workplace Needs Analysis (For CAT B)

We understand team sizes, workflow, culture, and future growth plans.

4. Concept Design & Space Planning

Includes 2D layouts, 3D visuals, furniture planning, colour schemes, and finishes.

5. Detailed CAT B Fit-Out

Construction, installation, décor, furniture, technology, and branding.

6. Final Handover

A complete workspace ready for immediate use.

Our in-house joinery workshop, M&E specialists, and dedicated project managers ensure every detail—from structure to style—is delivered at the highest standard.

Benefits of CAT A & CAT B Fit-Outs for Modern Workspaces

For Landlords

• Higher rental yield

• Faster occupancy

• Better property value

• Compliance with industry standards

• Professional building condition presentation

For Tenants

• A custom-designed workspace

• Increased employee satisfaction

• Better space utilisation

• Enhanced visitor and client impressions

• Improved collaboration and productivity

• Energy-efficient systems and long-term savings

Truline CIS supports both stakeholders, ensuring smooth transitions and a seamless delivery process.

Trends in Modern CAT B Fit-Outs

Workplace needs have changed dramatically. Some popular trends include:

Hybrid & Agile Workspaces

Hot-desking, flexible seating, touchdown spaces.

Biophilic Design

Plants, natural materials, daylight maximisation.

Technology Integration

Smart controls, video conferencing, automated lighting.

Wellbeing-Focused Design

Quiet rooms, wellness zones, acoustic pods, ergonomic furniture.

Sustainable Materials

Recycled furnishings, low-VOC paints, LED lighting.

Truline integrates these trends to future-proof new offices.

Why Truline CIS Is the Right Partner for CAT A & CAT B Fit-Outs

• Full design & build capability

• In-house joinery manufacturing

• Skilled M&E experts

• Consistent on-time project delivery

• Transparent communication

• Experience across commercial sectors

• Sustainable, high-quality materials

• Over a decade of trusted industry reputation

We don’t just build workspaces—we build environments that inspire performance, creativity, and wellbeing.

Whats about Fit-out

Understanding the roles of CAT A and CAT B fit-outs is essential for any commercial property project. CAT A prepares the building with essential infrastructure, while CAT B transforms it into a functional, branded, and fully operational workspace tailored to the tenant’s needs.

Whether you are a landlord preparing your space for market or a business designing your ideal office, Truline CIS offers complete support—from planning and design to construction and delivery. Our commitment to quality, creativity, and precision ensures every workspace we create performs beautifully today and into the future.