If you’re searching for office space to rent in the North West, you’ve likely come across a wide range of industry jargon. Whether you’re relocating, expanding, or searching for your your first office, understanding this terminology such as “CAT A” and “CAT B” can make comparing options more complicated than it needs to be.
This guide explains key office space terminology to help prospective occupiers like you make confident, informed decisions when choosing your next office.
Fit-Out Options: CAT A, CAT B and Fitted & Furnished Offices
Understanding fit-out terminology is essential when comparing commercial office space.
CAT A Office Space
A CAT A office is delivered in a ready-to-finish condition. It typically includes:
- Suspended or exposed ceiling styles
- Open plan LED office grade lighting
- Raised floors or perimeter trunking
- Plastered and decorated walls
This option is ideal for businesses looking to design and customise their own workspace.
CAT A+ Offices
CAT A+ office space bridges the gap between CAT A and fully fitted offices. These spaces often include:
- Meeting rooms
- Kitchen facilities
- Basic layout configuration
They offer a quicker move-in solution while still allowing some flexibility. Rents may be higher than CAT A, to reflect the additional work that has been carried out.
CAT B Office Fit-Out
CAT B refers to the tenants works and therefore a CAT B office is fully customised by either the landlord or the tenant and includes:
- Furniture and branding
- Breakout areas
- Private offices and meeting rooms
Fitted & Furnished (Plug & Play Offices)
These spaces are fully equipped and ready to use from day one. Simply move in and start working.
Types of Office Space: Serviced, Managed & Leased
When searching for office space you’ll also need to consider how the space is operated.
Serviced or Managed Offices
Serviced offices offer maximum flexibility with:
- Short-term agreements
- All-inclusive pricing
- Shared facilities such as kitchens and meeting rooms
Perfect for startups or growing businesses needing agility.
Traditional Leased Offices
A leased office space typically involves:
- Longer lease terms
- Greater control over the space
- Responsibility for fit-out and running costs
This is often preferred by established businesses seeking stability.
Key Lease Terms You Should Know
Understanding legal and financial terms is crucial when renting office space.
- All-Inclusive Rent – Usually covers rent, electricity, and service charges in one simple monthly cost
- Dilapidations – Costs associated with restoring the office at lease end
- Alienation – Your ability to sublet or assign the lease
- Licence to Alter (LTA) – Permission required to modify the space
Office Building Features & Technical Terms
Modern office buildings in the UK include a range of technical features:
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) – Ensures comfort and air quality
- M&E (Mechanical & Electrical) – Covers building systems like lighting and power
- Raised Access Floors – Allows flexible cabling and workspace layouts
These features can significantly impact employee experience and operational efficiency.
Sustainability in Office Space
Sustainability is increasingly important when choosing commercial property.
- BREEAM Rating – Measures environmental performance of buildings
- NABERS UK – Focuses on energy efficiency in operation
- Net Zero Carbon Offices – Buildings designed to minimise carbon impact
Find the Right Office Space with Orbit Developments
Choosing the right office space goes beyond location and size—it’s about understanding how a space is delivered, managed, and aligned with your business needs.
At Orbit Developments, we work closely with businesses to find office space across the North West that meets the needs of your business.
