Commercial fit outs are not quite as simple as they seem. The Building Code of Australia (BCA), relevant Australian standards, building requirements and your local council govern all of today’s commercial fit out exercises.

Clients are commonly being faced with unexpected costs which draw a lot of money out of the project. Even if you are only moving a plasterboard partition there are hidden costs related to this. The BCA deems that any change in internal configuration of walls means that fire and mechanical services must be altered so as not to impair currently certified services. Certification of any adjustments to these services is provided upon completion of works for the client’s and councils (where required) personal records. Alteration of fire, mechanical, electrical and hydraulic services alone can cost tens of thousands of dollars depending on the project size (approx 40-60% of total cost).

Australian councils have different requirements in regard to internal works. It is worth researching your local council requirements prior to any planning. Should your refurbishment fall into categories such as ‘Complying Development’ or require a full ‘Development Application’ you will again be required to pay council fees. Costs will vary depending on the necessary involvement but can be upwards of $2,000 as well as Long Service Levy payments and so forth. Clockwork Projects does look after this on your behalf including necessary research, meetings and documentation however the bill does remain.

Your Building Fit Out guidelines can also balloon the costs of your fit out project pending any requirements that the building owners/managers deem necessary prior to giving you approvals to proceed with any works.

In conclusion, your fit out will not simply reflect the cost of new partitions, paint and furniture. Being unaware of all these extra requirements incurring additional costs can result in a shock to the client. Thousands of dollars can add up extremely quickly over these legally required preliminaries and building works so it is worth keeping this in mind no matter how big or small your proposed fit out will be.