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. 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.
Compare retaining and refitting the existing shell with demolition against its condition and the actual project scope.
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.
Ask for a written strip-out scope, price basis, exclusions, provisional items, programme and variation terms.
Get in touch to arrange a site inspection, or view our completed projects to see the standard of work we deliver.