Whether you’re leaving a business location or renovating the existing space, you’ll need a commercial strip-out. But before you consult local experts for commercial demolition in Brisbane, you should know what’s included in a commercial strip out and what’s not. From floor removal and ceiling dismantling to HVAC systems and hazard removal, we’ll cover everything you should know.
What’s Included in a Commercial Strip-Out?
Internal Fixture and Fitting Removal
A commercial strip-out typically involves the removal of non-structural elements inside the building. This includes temporary walls, partitions, shelving, counters, and display units. In office spaces, built cubicles and workstations may also be dismantled, leaving the base building ready for its next fit-out.
Flooring Removal
Floor coverings are another common inclusion. Contractors can remove carpet, vinyl, tiles, or timber flooring as part of the process. In many cases, the underlying concrete will also be ground back, leaving a smooth and clean surface for new finishes to be installed.
Ceiling and Lighting Removal
Suspended ceilings, tiles, and grid systems are generally stripped out during the process. Any lighting fixtures attached to these ceilings, such as fluorescent lights or downlights, are also removed or disconnected by licensed tradespeople, ensuring compliance with electrical safety standards.
Air Conditioning and Ventilation Units
Non-essential air conditioning systems, vents, and ductwork can be dismantled and taken out during a strip-out. This is often done in coordination with HVAC technicians to make sure systems are properly disconnected without affecting base-building ventilation.
Disconnecting Electrical and Plumbing Utilities
A safe strip-out requires the disconnection and removal of specific electrical and plumbing elements. Power points, light switches, and non-permanent wiring are typically removed, while sinks, taps, and other non-structural plumbing fixtures may also be stripped away. It’s best to engage licensed professionals to carry out this work.
Built-in Furniture Removal
Joinery items such as built-in desks, cupboards, counters, or shelving that are not part of the base building are usually included in the strip-out. Removing these elements ensures the space is cleared back to a blank canvas for future use.
Waste Removal and Site Cleanup
Finally, a comprehensive strip-out includes the removal of waste and debris generated during the process. Contractors will typically leave the premises swept clean, with rubbish disposed of in compliance with Brisbane’s waste management regulations. This “make-good” condition often satisfies landlord requirements.
What’s Not Included in a Commercial Strip Out?
Structural Elements
While internal partitions may be dismantled, anything structural is not touched. Load-bearing walls, support columns, and other core elements of the building’s framework remain intact, as their removal requires engineering approval and falls under demolition rather than strip-out.
Base-Building Services
Services essential to the building’s function, such as main HVAC systems, plumbing risers, and electrical mains, are excluded from strip-outs. Fire protection systems, including sprinklers and alarms, also stay in place unless otherwise specified by the landlord and handled under specialist contracts.
External Building Components
Strip-outs focus only on the internal tenancy area. External features like facades, windows, roofing, and external doors are not included. These components belong to the building owner and remain untouched during the process.
Hazard Removal
The removal of hazardous materials such as asbestos or lead paint requires separate licensing and approvals in Queensland. These specialist works are not included in a general strip-out and must be arranged independently with licensed hazardous materials removal experts. But if you hire demolition experts with asbestos removal licenses, like Next Gen Demolition, they can get the job done.
What To Clarify Before a Strip Out
Certain areas of responsibility can vary from one project to another, so you should clarify the scope before work begins. For instance, some leases require tenants to handle the removal of fire safety system modifications, while others place that responsibility on landlords. The same goes for asbestos removal or reinstatement works, like repainting and flooring. Having these details confirmed in writing helps avoid disputes and unexpected costs.
Work With Specialists for Commercial Demolition in Brisbane
Commercial demolition in Brisbane, like strip-outs, includes things like internal fixture and fitting removal, ceiling dismantling, flooring removal, and air conditioning unit removal. Demolition professionals also remove electrical utilities and built-in furniture while removing waste materials. However, they don’t remove structural elements, base-building services, external building components, or hazard removal.
When planning a commercial strip-out, it’s best to work with experienced specialists like Next Gen Demolition, who have experience in handling projects of different scopes across Brisbane.