Office Relocation Guide London – Plan Your Move with Confidence
Moving offices in London is a major opportunity to refresh your business environment, improve efficiency, and support future growth. However, without careful planning, an office relocation can quickly become complex and costly.
This guide from Prestige Interiors outlines every key stage of a successful office move — from initial planning to full occupancy — including how to integrate your fit out or refurbishment for maximum value.
Why a Well-Planned Relocation Matters
A strategic relocation can:
- Enhance productivity through improved layout and amenities
- Reduce running costs by upgrading to energy-efficient systems
- Strengthen brand identity with a refreshed environment
- Support hybrid working through smarter space design
For London businesses, relocation planning must also account for access restrictions, lease terms, and building compliance obligations.
Step-by-Step Office Relocation Process
Step 1 – Establish Clear Objectives
Define why you’re moving and what success looks like.
Typical goals include better transport links, more space, improved facilities, or cost optimisation.
Create a project brief including team size, layout needs, and ideal move date.
Step 2 – Form a Relocation Team
Assign responsibilities across departments — facilities, IT, HR, and finance.
Appoint a dedicated project manager or engage an external specialist such as Prestige Interiors to coordinate tasks and suppliers.
Step 3 – Select and Survey Your New Space
Once a shortlist is established, conduct professional building surveys to evaluate suitability, infrastructure, and potential refurbishment requirements.
Prestige Interiors can provide pre-lease assessments to identify Cat A or Cat B fit out needs early.
Step 4 – Budget and Timeline Planning
Prepare a full budget covering relocation logistics, furniture, IT migration, fit out works, and downtime allowances.
Allow contingency (typically 10–15%) for unforeseen costs such as landlord variations or additional cabling.
Step 5 – Plan Your Office Fit Out or Refurbishment
Integrate your relocation with a complete office fit out and refurbishment in London.
Completing design and construction work before occupation ensures a seamless move-in experience.
Step 6 – Manage Legal and Compliance Obligations
Review lease agreements for dilapidation requirements, notice periods, and reinstatement works.
Coordinate with landlords, managing agents, and London borough authorities for approvals and permits.
Step 7 – Logistics, Move, and IT Setup
Schedule removals outside normal working hours if required by your building.
Ensure data security during IT migration and test all systems before employees arrive.
Step 8 – Post-Move Review and Optimisation
Gather staff feedback, fine-tune layouts, and address any snagging items.
Evaluate performance after 4–6 weeks to measure success and identify improvements.
London-Specific Relocation Challenges
Relocating within London introduces unique logistical and regulatory considerations:
- Congestion-zone and parking restrictions for removal vehicles
- Building access limitations and delivery booking systems
- Health and Safety Executive (HSE) compliance for temporary works
- Coordination with multiple contractors and security teams
Prestige Interiors’ experience managing London office moves ensures all details — from access permits to equipment installation — are handled smoothly.
Integrating Fit Out and Relocation
Combining your move with a refurbishment or Cat B fit out delivers efficiency and cost control.
Benefits include:
- Reduced downtime between old and new premises
- Consistent design and branding across the new workspace
- Streamlined project management through one point of contact
- Improved employee experience from day one
Explore our Cat A vs Cat B fit out guide to understand which fit out level suits your relocation goals.
Legal and Compliance Essentials
Before relocating, review key compliance items:
- Lease surrender and reinstatement works at your current premises
- Fire safety and accessibility compliance at your new location
- Insurance coverage for relocation and temporary storage
- Data protection during server or equipment moves
Prestige Interiors ensures all London regulations are met, coordinating with landlords and local authorities to maintain full compliance.
Budgeting and Cost Control Tips
- Begin planning at least six months in advance
- Obtain three detailed quotations for removals and fit out services
- Schedule works in stages to minimise operational disruption
- Reuse existing furniture or M&E systems where appropriate
- Keep communication open with your team to manage expectations
For indicative pricing, view our cost of office fit out and refurbishment in London guide.
Start Planning Your Move Today
Prestige Interiors offers end-to-end support for London businesses — from space planning and design to full relocation management. Our integrated approach minimises disruption and ensures your new office is ready for immediate occupation.