A commercial fit-out is easier to run when everyone understands the sequence before work starts. This guide follows the typical path from an approved scope to handover, and what should be confirmed at each stage.
What to confirm before mobilisation
- The agreed scope, specification and programme, and who approves changes.
- Building access, delivery windows, lift use and working-hour rules.
- Permits, approvals and insurance documents that the building or authority requires for this specific property.
- Long-lead materials and the dates by which selections must be made.
Site protection and access
Before the first trade starts, existing finishes, lifts, corridors and neighbouring areas are protected, and routes for materials and waste are agreed. Good protection is quiet work that prevents disputes later.
Sequencing the trades
The exact order depends on the project, but the logic is usually the same: work that is hidden comes before work that is visible, and wet or dusty work comes before delicate finishes.
- Preparation, strip-out and protection of areas that stay.
- Electrical and plumbing first-fix and other concealed services.
- Partitions, ceilings and the inspections required before they are closed.
- Second-fix, testing by the appropriate personnel, and finishes.
- Joinery, fixtures, final cleaning and pre-handover checks.
Procurement and decisions that move the programme
Late selections are one of the most common reasons a programme slips. A decision log with owners and dates keeps materials, samples and approvals moving, and shows early when a decision is becoming critical.
Inspection and variation control
Work is inspected before it is concealed, not only at the end. Changes requested during the works are written down, priced and approved before they proceed, so the final account matches what was agreed.
Snagging and handover
A snagging list records what is incomplete or defective against the agreed scope, with location, description and responsibility. Items are closed and verified, and the client receives the handover records that fit the project.
Questions clients ask
How are trades sequenced?
Concealed work first, then closing of ceilings and partitions after inspection, then finishes and joinery. The exact order is set in the programme for each site.
What is a snagging list?
A location-based list of incomplete or defective items found during inspection, each with a description, responsibility and closure status.
What records should be handed over?
They depend on the scope, but commonly include product information, relevant test records, warranties actually provided and care guidance.
How SADEED runs a fit-out
Under Design & Build, SADEED keeps design, coordination, approvals and delivery under one project manager. Electrical and plumbing works are within our licensed scope; specialist systems such as HVAC and fire and life-safety are coordinated through specialists.
Planning a fit-out and want the sequence mapped out?
Related guides
- From Site Visit to Quotation: What Happens Before a Commercial Proposal Is Issued?
- Quality Control in Interior Fit-Out: What Should Be Checked and When?
- Commercial Project Handover: Documents, Inspections and Responsibilities
- Design & Build programme
- Request a site visit
Last reviewed: October 2026. This guide is general information; requirements vary by property, scope and authority.