Planning a move or office renovation? Whether you’re setting up a new space or modernising your existing one, electrical fitouts are a key part of a safe, functional and productive workplace. From lighting, cabling and switchboards to ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, this guide outlines a few key things Perth businesses need to know to ensure their office fitout is done right.
Why Proper Electrical Planning Is Crucial In Office Fitouts
A well-executed office fitout begins with solid electrical planning. The placement of power outlets, data cabling, lighting and switchboards has a direct impact on the ways in which your team will operate. Poor layout decisions can hinder productivity, compromise safety and create costly hurdles if changes are required post-construction.
With workplace technology constantly evolving, businesses also need flexibility built into their fitouts. From hybrid work environments and cloud-based systems to EV charging and future data needs, your electrical infrastructure should be both scalable and forward thinking. Planning strategically from the beginning helps to avoid disruptions, supports the workflow of your team and ensures your space remains compliant into the future.
Key Components of An Office Electrical Fitout
Designing an office fitout is more than just deciding where your power points are going to go. Each workspace has different requirements, and the right electrical configuration should support both everyday tasks and long term business goals.
Lighting & Energy Efficiency
Lighting is one of the most influential elements in any office environment. Beyond ensuring visibility, it helps to shape how your team feels and performs throughout the day. Poor lighting can lead to eye strain, fatigue and even reduced morale.
Modern office fitouts benefit from LED lighting solutions, which offer longevity and energy savings. Motion sensors, natural light integration and lighting zones can be used to minimise power consumption while still maintaining a comfortable environment. Well-designed lighting not only lowers energy bills, but also improves the look and feel of your office space.
Power Outlets & Circuit Distribution
Too many businesses find themselves short on power points, or worse, they rely on overloaded power boards and tangled extension leads. Strategic outlet placement across workstations, boardrooms, breakout areas and server rooms ensures seamless connectivity and safer cable management.
Dedicated circuits should also be considered for high-drawing equipment like photocopiers, kitchen appliances, data servers and air conditioning systems. Our experienced team at Gorey Electrical can assess your anticipated load and design a balanced circuit layout that prevents overload and futureproofs your office’s electrical infrastructure.
Data & Communication Cabling
Your office’s IT backbone depends on well-planned and executed power and data cabling. Whether you’re hosting in-house servers or running a cloud-based setup, a structured cabling system ensures fast and reliable communication across your network.
Our commercial fitouts include solutions for:
- Phone and internet systems
- Fibre optic and NBN integration
- Internal network cabling for connected devices
- Flexibility for future tech upgrades and hybrid work arrangements
Switchboards & Safety Systems
Switchboards are often overlooked in fitout projects, but they are essential in a safe and compliant electrical system. An outdated or undersized switchboard can struggle to support a modern office environment and leave your workplace vulnerable to faults or fire risk.
We assess and upgrade switchboards to ensure:
- Sufficient circuit capacity
- Compliance with RCD safety switch requirements
- Integration with emergency lighting and exit signage for safety
Compliance With Workplace Safety & Building Regulations
Electrical work in commercial premises must adhere to strict standards to ensure workplace safety and regulatory compliance. In WA, office electrical installations must meet:
- The National Construction Code
- AS/NZS 3000:2018 (Wiring Rules)
- AS/NZS 2293.1:2018 (Emergency lighting and exit signage standards)
- WorkSafe WA requirements under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984
This includes proper installation of safety switches, sufficient lighting for evacuation paths and documented maintenance of all systems. A licensed electrician must carry out all electrical work to ensure full compliance, as well as protecting your insurance coverage.
Common Fitout Mistakes & How To Avoid Them
While it’s tempting to focus on the visual elements of an office fitout, neglecting the electrical side often leads to costly fixes and disruptions to your working environment. Here are a few mistakes we see regularly and help our clients avoid:
- Underestimating Power Requirements: This can quickly lead to overloaded circuits or restricted equipment use.
- Poor Outlet Placement: Lack of planning results in cluttered desks, excessive extension cords and safety hazards.
- Overlooking HVAC Load: Heating and cooling systems must be factored into the electrical design to avoid overload.
- Using Unlicensed Tradespeople: DIY or unqualified work is illegal in WA, highly dangerous and can void your insurance policies.
- No Room For Growth: Planning only for current needs limits your flexibility as your team and tech evolves.
A professionally managed fitout ensures these issues are addressed before they become significant problems.
Benefits of Working With A Licensed Commercial Electrician
Office fitouts involve multiple stakeholders, from builders and IT consultants to designers and HVAC specialists. A licensed commercial electrician plays a critical role in keeping your office fitout project on track.
By working with an experienced electrical team like Gorey, you benefit from:
- Seamless coordination with other trades and consultants
- Faster approvals and fewer delays for inspections
- Peace of mind knowing your systems are scalable, safe and compliant to relevant regulations
- Warranty protection and thorough documentation for all completed works
We understand the demands of commercial electrical projects and provide tailored support from concept to completion.
How Gorey Can Support Your Office Fitout
With over 50 years of experience delivering commercial electrical solutions in Perth, Gorey Electrical is trusted by businesses of all sizes across a diverse range of sectors.
Our office fitout services include:
- Consultation and electrical planning
- LED and energy-efficient lighting design
- Structured power and data cabling
- Switchboard upgrades and safety compliance
- Emergency lighting and exit signage
- Ongoing electrical maintenance and reporting support
Whether you’re relocating, expanding or renovating your existing space, we design fitouts that work for your business today and into the future.
Ready To Fitout Your Office? Let’s Talk!
A well-executed office electrical fitout is the foundation of a safe, efficient and future-ready workplace. Whether you’re relocating, renovating or designing a brand-new space, partnering with an experienced electrical team can make a significant difference.
At Gorey Electrical Service, we’ve been powering Perth businesses since 1971. Our team of licensed electricians provide tailored commercial fitout solutions that meet your current needs, while still allowing the flexibility for your business and systems to evolve in the future.
Speak to our friendly team about your upcoming project. We’ll help you plan, design and deliver a reliable electrical system that works exactly the way you need it to from day one.
