CAT A space provides a blank canvas with plumbing and electrics, requiring a fit-out. In contrast, CAT B offices are fully fitted and furnished, ready for occupation. Meanwhile, managed offices provide a CAT B-fitted workspace operated by a third-party provider, like a hotel for businesses. This article explains the key differences and which option best suits your business.
 
 

What is a CAT A Office?

 
CAT A is the stage between shell-and-core construction and a fully fitted office. CAT A office space is delivered by the landlord and includes basic infrastructure needed to make a building functional, but not yet ready for occupation.

This option provides a blank canvas, allowing businesses to design a workspace around their operational needs, brand and company culture. 
 
CAT A offices typically include: 
 
• Raised floors
• Suspended ceilings
• Electrical infrastructure
• Basic lighting
• Air conditioning and HVAC systems
• WC facilities 
 
CAT A specifications can also differ between landlords and buildings, particularly across older properties and newer developments. We are also seeing more CAT A offices include energy-efficient lighting and upgraded building infrastructure.
 
CAT A Office
 
 

What Is a CAT B Office?

 
A CAT B office, commonly referred to as a fitted office, is a workspace ready for occupation with the fit-out already completed. This may have been installed by the landlord or left in place by the previous tenant.
 
A CAT B fit-out often features:
 
• Desks/workstations
• Meeting rooms
• Kitchen facilities
• Decorative lighting and finished flooring
• Internet cabling already installed
 
As the workspace is already fitted and furnished, businesses do not need to manage a fit-out project before moving in. In our experience, this significantly reduces setup time, disruption, and upfront costs. 
 
In a standard CAT B office arrangement, the occupier remains responsible for the day-to-day management and operation of the workspace. Some customisation may be possible, but the ability to change the layout or branding is often more limited than with CAT A space.
 
CAT B Office
 
 

What Is a Managed Office?

 
Managed offices are self-contained private workspaces. They are generally fitted spaces, operated and managed by a third-party provider. 
 
Unlike CAT A and standard CAT B offices, managed office space is designed around the occupier's requirements. This can include bespoke branding and dedicated facilities tailored to the business. 
 
Managed office providers usually handle:
 
• Office design and fit-out
• Furniture
• Internet and utilities
• Cleaning and maintenance 
• Day-to-day office management
 
Managed offices sit between traditional leases and serviced office space, with terms often starting from around 12 to 36 months. In our experience, they are a popular, cost-effective option for large teams seeking flexible workspace without taking on full office management responsibilities. 
 
Managed Office
 
 

Key Differences Between CAT A, CAT B, and Managed Offices

 
The table below summarises the main differences between CAT A, CAT B and managed offices.
 
  CAT A CAT B Managed
Setup time Several months – office fit-out required Ready for immediate occupation with minimal adjustments Generally 8 to 16 weeks to fit-out and customise to the occupier’s requirements 
Upfront cost Significant upfront investment Low upfront cost All-inclusive monthly cost
Lease length Typically, 5+ years Around 1 to 5 years Often 1-3 years
Customisation Full control over design and layout Limited Bespoke workspace delivered by provider
Management Responsibility Occupier Occupier Provider
 
 

Which Is Right for Your Business?

 
In our experience, the right option depends on your timeline, budget, growth plans and the level of involvement you want in setting up and managing the workspace. Here are some key considerations to help narrow down the right choice:
 
Need to move quickly with minimal setup?
 
CAT B offices are often the most practical solution for companies seeking office space to rent that is available for immediate occupation. We find that they are particularly popular with startups and SMEs looking to avoid the delays and costs of managing a fit-out project themselves.
 
Want full control over design, layout and management?
 
We have found that CAT A offices are typically chosen by established businesses that want full control over the design, layout, and management of their workspace. They are generally better suited to organisations able to commit to longer leases, where the upfront investment can be justified.
 
control over workspace design and layout

Prefer a tailored workspace without managing the process?
 
In our experience, managed office space suits companies wanting a tailored workspace that reflects their brand identity and company culture, without having to manage the fit-out process themselves. 
 
Expecting changes in team size?
 
For teams expecting changes in headcount, we often recommend managed or CAT B offices because they usually offer greater flexibility around lease terms than CAT A space. Many flexible office providers can also accommodate expansion within the same building or across their wider portfolio, reducing the need for businesses to relocate as they grow.
 
 
CAT A, CAT B and managed offices are designed to suit different business requirements, with each option offering varying levels of flexibility, control and operational support.
 
Companies prioritising convenience and minimal setup often choose CAT B or managed office space, while those seeking full control over the fit-out and ongoing management of their workspace typically favour CAT A offices.
 
At FreeOfficeFinder, we can help procure office space to rent in London and the UK, for any of these setups. We will guide you towards the solution that allows your business to thrive.