Office Relocation: How to Carry Out an Office Strip-Out?

An office strip-out can be a big project that involves the dismantling and extracting of various internal components. This can be anything from kitchens and commercial areas to various other fixtures. A removal like this can take care of partition walls, built-in features, furniture and a lot more.

As experts in office installation services, we have been involved in a range of strip-out projects, so let's dive into the best process to help you with yours!

When and what is required for an office strip-out?

It may be the commencement or conclusion of a lease or the renovation of your office space; either way, most companies encounter a strip-out at some point. The work involved can vary depending on the client's specific requirements, the obligations stipulated in the lease agreement, and the guidelines provided by the landlord regarding the tenancy fit-out.

Typically, the scope of office strip-outs encompasses the following tasks:

• Dismantling and removal of all existing workstations, screens, furniture, and fixtures: This involves carefully disassembling and extracting office equipment, including desks, partitions, screens, chairs, and any other furnishings present.
• Removal of all built-in joinery and cupboards: Any custom-built joinery, such as cabinets, cupboards, shelves, or storage units, will be detached and removed, leaving the space clear and ready for the next phase.
• Removal of all signage from the office and directory board: Any signs, plaques, or banners displaying company logos, names, or other information will be taken down, ensuring a clean slate for the subsequent occupant.
• Demolition of existing partition walls: If partition walls divide the office space, they will be carefully demolished and removed, creating an open floor plan or preparing the area to install new partitions.
• Removal of existing doors and skirting: Doors, including their frames and skirting boards, will be uninstalled and disposed of, clearing the way for potential modifications or upgrades.
• Removal of existing ceiling grid, tiles, suspended, and plasterboard ceiling: The ceiling components, such as the metal grid, ceiling tiles, suspended elements, or plasterboard, will be taken down and properly disposed of, leaving a blank canvas for any desired ceiling alterations or replacements.
• Removal and disposal of false flooring: If there is any false flooring in place, whether it be wooden, vinyl, carpet, or any other material, it will be carefully removed and disposed of, preparing the subfloor for potential refurbishment or installation of new flooring materials.

It is important to note that the specific requirements and extent of the strip-out may vary depending on the unique circumstances of each office space and agreements made between the client, the landlord, and any relevant parties involved.

A step-by-step office strip-out process

Every strip-out should begin with disconnecting electrical, water, and gas lines to ensure the safety and proper handling of these utilities throughout the project. From here, the following should be considered for a thorough result:

The main power line is turned off, and a thorough check is conducted to ensure that power points and cables have no active electricity running through them, guaranteeing a safe working environment.

1. Water lines are shut off to prevent flooding or water-related issues during the strip-out process.
2. Gas appliances are turned off at the valves, and the gas lines are shut off at the gas meter, adhering to necessary safety protocols.
3. Recognising that demolition can create a mess, the floors are covered to protect them from scratches, dents, and other damages. The strip-out experts employ equipment like Bolton rubber pads for floor protection, ensuring the preservation of the underlying surfaces.
4. Existing artworks and signage are carefully removed from the work site, ensuring their safe relocation or disposal as required.
5. Workstations, screens, furniture, and fixtures are then dismantled and removed from the premises to facilitate better access to floors, ceilings, and walls. Office desk and workstation reconfiguration and removal should be responsibly disposed of or reconfigured and relocated to a new location as needed.
6. All waste generated during the strip-out should be loaded into tub bins and promptly removed from the site using Tipper Trucks.
7. Additional equipment for the specific strip-out project can be installed, with an exclusion zone established by sealing off the work area, prioritising safety.
8. Demolish partition walls, such as single gyprock walls, from slab to slab, and remove all doors and skirting. This creates more open space, enhancing access to floors and ceilings.
9. The existing ceiling grid, tiles, suspended elements, and plasterboard ceiling are systematically dismantled and removed from the premises.
10. Systematically remove all existing false flooring, including wooden and vinyl tiles or floorboards, as well as carpets and their underlay.

Ask about our strip-out and office installation services today

Sustainable Office Solutions stands out in office furniture removals, boasting a track record of stellar 5-star reviews from numerous returning clients, including esteemed organisations such as JLL, Unisuper, and CarSales.com.au. With a specialisation in Melbourne CBD projects, we have garnered extensive experience working within the high-rise complexes that grace the area.

For any project, we can provide a fleet of vehicles ranging from small removal trucks to large vans, ensuring we can accommodate projects of all sizes. In addition, our expertise extends to the seamless transportation of all goods, allowing for a comprehensive removal service.

At Sustainable Office Solutions, we prioritise meticulous planning and execution of our projects, always considering the surrounding properties and people. Our commitment to consistent standards has nurtured long-lasting client relationships as we strive to exceed expectations with each undertaking.

Collaborating closely with you, we plan every aspect of the project to ensure its safe, efficient, and well-coordinated execution. Our experienced team is well-equipped to handle the nuances of office removals, as we have access to a pool of over 50 trained staff members who specialise in this field. Let us handle your move today!