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Commercial fitouts: an electrical planning checklist

A good electrical brief helps a fitout move from floor plan to opening day. Start with equipment, site conditions and access requirements, then coordinate the work with the wider project.

Confirm the site and responsibilities

Clarify the landlord’s requirements, existing services and any centre-management rules. The lease and base-building arrangements can influence the work allowed and who approves it.

Agree who coordinates the electrician, builder, equipment suppliers and other trades. A clear contact for changes helps keep decisions consistent.

Build the equipment schedule

List equipment with its electrical requirements and proposed location. This is particularly useful for kitchens, refrigeration, machinery and other substantial loads.

  • Power and data for point-of-sale systems
  • Lighting, signage and controls
  • Dedicated equipment supplies
  • Distribution and switchboard requirements
  • Access, shutdowns and after-hours work

Design around the customer and staff

Lighting and power locations affect how the space works. Consider task areas, cleaning, maintenance and future layout changes alongside the initial presentation.

Equipment requirements should be confirmed before wiring positions are fixed. Late changes may affect cost and the programme.

Plan the handover

Allow time for testing, commissioning and any required coordination before opening. Ask for labelled circuits and documentation for the completed scope.

A fitout can also be a useful time to review energy use, but solar, storage or EV charging should be assessed against site ownership, capacity and operating needs.

Talk through your next step

Your property and priorities set the brief. Explore shop fitouts. Or request a free quote to discuss the work with our team.