A commercial strip out in Wollongong costs between $50 and $180 per square metre in 2026, depending on the size of the space, what’s being removed, and whether asbestos is involved. For a standard 200m² office strip out (partitions, ceiling tiles, carpet, and basic services), you’re typically looking at $15,000 to $30,000. A 500m² retail tenancy with extensive joinery and services runs $40,000 to $80,000. Larger warehouse or industrial strip outs can exceed $100,000 when hazardous materials are present.
We handle commercial strip outs across the Illawarra and have done for decades. Here’s what actually drives the price.
Strip Out Cost per Square Metre (2026)
| Space Type | Cost per m² | Typical Project Size | Total Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard office | $50–$90/m² | 150–400m² | $10,000–$35,000 |
| Office with extensive fit-out | $90–$140/m² | 200–600m² | $25,000–$75,000 |
| Retail tenancy | $70–$130/m² | 80–300m² | $8,000–$40,000 |
| Restaurant/hospitality | $120–$180/m² | 100–400m² | $20,000–$70,000 |
| Warehouse/industrial | $40–$80/m² | 500–2,000m² | $30,000–$120,000 |
| Medical/dental | $130–$180/m² | 80–250m² | $15,000–$45,000 |
What’s Included in a Strip Out
Partition walls, suspended ceilings, all floor coverings, joinery and cabinetry, electrical fit-off, plumbing fixtures, HVAC ductwork, signage, and tenant-installed structures. The goal is to return the space to “base building” condition.
What Pushes Costs Higher
- Asbestos: Adds $30–$80/m² on top. Survey required ($1,500–$4,000) for pre-1990 buildings.
- Access constraints: CBD work adds 15–25% (after-hours, loading zone permits, lift access only).
- Hazardous materials: Lead paint, synthetic mineral fibre, PCBs require specialist handling and disposal.
- Services disconnection: 2–4 weeks lead time, $2,000–$8,000 depending on complexity.
- Make-good disputes: Get a building condition report before starting to avoid arguments about what was original.
Strip Out vs Full Demolition
Strip out when: End of lease, new tenant needs a blank canvas, refurbishment planned, shell condition required for refit.
Full demolition when: Structure is compromised, complete redevelopment planned, remediation cost exceeds strip-out value.
Our position: too many owners default to full demolition when a strip out plus refit costs half as much. We always assess whether the existing shell is worth keeping before recommending demolition.
The Strip Out Process
- Site inspection and scope (1–2 days): We walk the space, document what stays and what goes.
- Asbestos survey if required (3–5 days): Mandatory for pre-1990 buildings in NSW.
- Services disconnection (1–4 weeks lead time): Gas, electrical, hydraulic isolation.
- Strip out works (1–4 weeks): Systematic removal from top down.
- Clean and handover (1–2 days): Broom-clean, waste certificates issued.
Wollongong-Specific Considerations
- Council waste permits: $200–$500/week for skip bins on public roads.
- Industrial areas (Port Kembla, Unanderra): Heavier materials, potential crane access required.
- Heritage buildings (Crown Street, harbour precinct): May need approval even for internal work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a commercial strip out take?
200–400m² office: 5–10 days. 500m²+ or asbestos involved: 2–4 weeks.
Do I need council approval?
Generally no for internal strip outs, unless the building is heritage-listed.
Who pays for the strip out?
The tenant, per the make-good clause in the lease. Check your lease early.
Can you do a partial strip out?
Yes, but it costs more per m² due to protection of retained areas and more careful demolition.
What happens to the waste?
Sorted on site, recycled where possible, with waste certificates provided for your records.
Get a Clear Price for Your Strip Out
Every commercial space is different. The numbers in this guide give you a realistic framework, but your specific project depends on the space, its age, what’s in it, and how quickly you need it done.
At Adlington Homes, we provide honest, fixed-price strip out quotes after a site inspection. No provisional sums, no surprise invoices halfway through. Just a clear price and a clear timeline.
Get in touch to arrange a site inspection, or view our completed projects to see the standard of work we deliver.