How long does office reinstatement take?
The works for a 1,000–3,000 sq ft office usually take one to two weeks, but approvals and building rules can add as much time again. Here’s a realistic timeline.
Updated 26 October 2026
In short: Works for a 1,000–3,000 sq ft office usually take 5–10 working days, but permits, move-out and the joint inspection add one to three weeks. Start planning 4–8 weeks before your handover date.
In this guide
Typical works duration by office size
| Office size | Works on site |
|---|---|
| Under 1,000 sq ft | 3–5 working days |
| 1,000–3,000 sq ft | 5–10 working days |
| 3,000–10,000 sq ft | 2–4 weeks |
These assume normal access. Heavy fit-outs with server rooms, raised floors or extensive M&E take longer.
The full timeline, not just the works
- Site survey and quotation: a few days.
- Landlord confirmation of scope: checking the reinstatement clause and handover checklist can take a week if questions go back and forth.
- Building works permit: many buildings need a method statement and insurance documents approved first, often 3–10 working days.
- Move-out: IT, furniture and documents must be cleared before works start.
- Works: see the table above.
- Joint inspection and rectification: one to three days to close out remarks.
Altogether, start 4–8 weeks before the handover date.
What makes it take longer
- CBD and Grade A buildings that only allow noisy works after hours or at weekends
- Loading bay and lift bookings that limit debris removal times
- Bare shell requirements, which mean more removal. See bare shell vs original condition.
- Late decisions on what the landlord or next tenant wants to keep
- Delays clearing furniture and IT before works start
How to avoid missing the handover date
- Book the survey early and get the scope confirmed in writing.
- Submit the works permit as soon as the quotation is accepted.
- Plan the move-out so works can start on the agreed day.
- Ask for a schedule planned back from the handover date, with a buffer for inspection remarks.
Our office move-out checklist covers the rest of the move.
Example schedule: 2,000 sq ft office
| Week before handover | What happens |
|---|---|
| 8–6 | Site survey, quotation, landlord confirms the scope |
| 5–4 | Building works permit submitted and approved |
| 3 | Move-out of staff, IT and furniture |
| 2–1 | Reinstatement works, about 7–10 working days |
| Handover week | Joint inspection, remarks fixed, handover signed |
Partitions and flooring usually take the most time on site. See partition wall removal, carpet removal and vinyl flooring removal for each step.
Related guides
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How long does office reinstatement take?
Works for a 1,000–3,000 sq ft office usually take 5–10 working days, plus time for permits, move-out and the joint inspection.
When should I start planning reinstatement?
Four to eight weeks before your handover date.
Can reinstatement be done over weekends?
Often yes. Many CBD buildings only allow noisy works after hours or at weekends.
What happens if reinstatement isn't finished by handover?
The landlord may carry out the remaining works and deduct the cost from your deposit, or charge for the extra days, depending on the lease.
Want a price for your unit?
We’ll reply with an initial estimate and a time for a free site survey.