Rate Mitigation Strip-Out and Tenant Preparation Works – Multi-Floor Commercial Building
1. Project Overview
Crestel Projects has successfully completed a rate mitigation strip-out project following the departure of tenants from a multi-floor commercial property.
This specialist scheme was designed to help the landlord reduce business rates liability while also preparing the building for future Cat A+ fit-out works. By carefully removing tenant-specific installations and leaving the communal cores intact, Crestel ensured the property was both compliant and optimised for the next phase of occupation.
2. Scope of Works
The project required a comprehensive tenant strip-out, which included:
01.
Removal of tenant-installed systems across three floor plates
02.
Full removal of internal ceilings
03.
Raised access floor removal
04.
Tenant-specific M&E removal, while preserving essential building systems
05.
Thorough testing of remaining M&E and fire alarm systems to ensure full compliance and operational safety
The result was a clean, compliant, and structurally sound environment, ready for landlord re-letting strategy and subsequent tenant fit-out.
3. Objectives
The project was driven by three clear goals:
- Rate Mitigation – Reducing the landlord’s liability by stripping out tenant installations no longer required.
- Compliance and Safety – Ensuring all retained M&E and fire systems were tested and certified safe for ongoing use.
- Future Readiness – Leaving the building in a condition that allows for efficient Cat A+ refurbishment and reoccupation by new tenants.
4. Challenges and Solutions
01.
Challenge 1: Careful Removal of Tenant Installations
Tenant-installed systems such as raised floors, ceilings, and bespoke M&E were closely integrated into the structure.
Solution:
Crestel deployed skilled strip-out specialists, using phased works to protect communal cores and base build elements.
02.
Challenge 2: Compliance with Safety Standards
Following the strip-out, the remaining systems required validation.
Solution:
Independent testing and certification of M&E and fire alarm systems provided assurance to both landlord and incoming tenants.
03.
Challenge 3: Maintaining Programme Efficiency
Tight timeframes meant all work had to be delivered quickly to support leasing strategies.
Solution:
Dedicated project management, scheduling precision, and a trusted supply chain ensured the programme was completed on time.
5. Results
- All tenant installations safely removed across three floors
- Communal cores retained and protected throughout the works
- Remaining systems tested and certified to ensure compliance
- Building prepared for Cat A+ fit-out with minimal disruption to landlord strategy
- Landlord business rate liability successfully mitigated
6. Looking Ahead
With the rate mitigation project complete, Crestel Projects will soon return to the site to commence the Cat A+ refurbishment and tenant fit-out across all three floor plates. This next phase will include modernised finishes, new M&E systems, and full landlord-standard enhancements, creating move-in-ready commercial spaces for incoming occupiers.
Crestel Projects specialises in rate mitigation works, tenant strip-outs, and Cat A+ refurbishments across the UK. If you are a landlord, surveyor, or asset manager seeking to reduce liabilities and prepare your building for new occupiers, contact our team today to discuss your project.