Fitted Office Takeover: What “As-Is” Really Means
A fitted office can save significant time and cost, but the handover details need to be clear.
Updated 28 October 2026 · CBD Office Space
Should you choose a fitted or bare office?
Choose on layout suitability, total cost, timing and written handover obligations. A fitted office is useful when enough of the existing installation can be reused. A bare office can be a better operational fit when substantial alteration would otherwise be needed.
Fitted office versus bare office
| Decision | Fitted office | Bare office |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Check desks, rooms, circulation and growth against your brief | Plan a layout within the building’s constraints |
| Entry cost | Budget for alterations, repairs and excluded furniture | Budget for design, services, finishes, furniture and approvals |
| Timing | Potentially quicker if usable and approved; verify access and works | Allow for design, approval, construction and commissioning |
| Exit | Confirm whether inherited works must be removed | Confirm the required return condition for your new works |
What should you inspect before a takeover?
- Match the floor plan and workstation count to your team, meeting rooms, storage and privacy needs.
- Test the condition and capacity of air-conditioning, power, lighting, data cabling and access systems with appropriate technical help.
- List fixed installations and movable furniture separately; record what is included, excluded, owned or leased.
- Ask for relevant approvals and confirm the intended use and proposed alterations with the landlord.
- Photograph the handover condition and record defects and responsibility for rectification.
Is a takeover fee required?
A fee is not automatic. Any payment, furniture purchase or transfer of equipment should be expressly agreed with the correct party and documented. Do not assume that items visible during a viewing belong to the outgoing tenant or will remain.
Who handles reinstatement?
The written lease and handover arrangements determine the parties’ obligations. Taking an office “as-is” does not by itself remove the incoming tenant’s future reinstatement requirement. State the proposed takeover early so the landlord and outgoing tenant can confirm what stays before removal work starts.
How do you compare the cost fairly?
Use the same lease length and occupancy needs for each option. Add entry works, rent and operating costs and an exit allowance; show refundable deposits separately. A lower fit-out budget does not necessarily offset a higher rent or a poor layout. Use the office rental guide and lease checklist together.
How can you start a fitted office search?
Send CBD Office Space your preferred locations, size or headcount, budget, move-in date and essential rooms. Our leasing service can compare fitted and bare options around that brief. Published listings are examples to investigate; current availability, condition and terms must be reconfirmed.
Ask about your actual requirement.
Live asking rents, availability and transactions change. Send the building, size and timing for a current discussion.
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