01Define the starting condition
The terms bare shell, warm shell and unfurnished can describe different handover conditions. Ask for a written scope covering floor finishes, ceilings, electrical provision, cooling, fire systems and toilets. Identify the points where the landlord’s work stops and the occupier’s work begins. A site inspection should test that description against the actual floor.
02Build a realistic fit-out brief
Translate headcount and working patterns into a room and workstation schedule. Include circulation, accessibility, storage, technical rooms and future adaptation. Bring designers and appropriate technical advisers into the assessment early enough to review the floor plate. Structural constraints and service routes can influence a layout long before finishes are selected.
03Connect delivery with the lease
Consider fit-out access, building rules, approval steps, contractor working hours and the condition expected at exit. Review the occupation budget with design, construction, furniture and systems included. Work backwards from the date the office must function. Confirm each dependency rather than assuming the rent commencement date and operational opening date will align.