What is a Managed Office?
A managed office is a customisable workspace solution where you get dedicated space that you can design and brand to your specification. The cost of the fit out works is paid for by the Landlord and amortised over the lease term. You create your ideal office environment while experts manage all the facilities for you.
Managed offices also usually include the likes of utilities, internet, facilities management, and a fixed dilapidations cost within the rent. The idea is that you get one bill to make your move as easy as possible.
In Manchester, growing businesses choose managed offices when they want more than a serviced office but less hassle than a traditional lease. You get the best of both worlds with customisation and professional management.
What’s Included in a Managed Office:
Customisable Workspace:
Managed offices are typically leased as blank spaces (CAT A), allowing occupiers to design and fit them out to their own specification, including layout, furniture, and branding. Fit-out costs are paid for by the landlord and amortised over the lease term. This reduces capital expenditure for the occupier, freeing up money that can be spent on enabling business growth
Operational Management:
Managed Offices allow for experienced teams to handle to likes of maintenance, cleaning, utilities and internet all under a single bill. Some offices offer private facilities such as meeting rooms and toilets with others opting to share these facilities across multiple tenants.
Prime Manchester Locations:
Managed offices in Manchester are found in prestigious business districts like Spinningfields and Salford Quays, giving your business a professional address with excellent transport connections.
Benefits of Managed Office Spaces
Customisable Workspace with Professional Support
You have the option to design an office that reflects your brand and meets your exact needs. Choose furniture, layout, and technology setup while professional teams handle all building management so you can focus on growing your business. The most important element – the Landlord will manage the contractor and designer (with your input of course).
Better Value Than Serviced Offices
Managed offices offer lower monthly costs per square foot than serviced offices while providing more customisation. Customisable bills allow you to better plan your costs making budgeting easier and eliminating suprise bills for utlities and maintenence.
Hassle-Free Operations
Access professional facilities management without the complexity of traditional leases. Maintenance, utilities, and building operations are handled by experts while you maintain flexible lease terms.
Scalable Space for Growing Companies
Easily expand or reduce your office space as your business evolves. Flexible agreements give you room to grow without the restrictions of long term traditional leases.
Setup Time and Costs
Setup Time
2-4 weeks depending on the terms of your contract and who is required to fit and furnish the space.
Upfront Costs
There are always some upfront costs, but they are typically lower for managed offices.. As a minimum you will pay:
- First rental invoice upfront
- Rental deposit (usually 2-3 months rent)
Monthly Costs in Manchester
Costs vary depending on the package you choose – they will be higher than traditional leased but remember, you are saving capital expenditure. The annual rent can range anywhere from c.£30 to £75 per sq ft. Not all Landlords will provide managed offices – here’s an example property where the Landlord offers managed solutions 117 – 119 Portland Street.
Managed offices typically cost less per square foot than serviced offices while offering more customisation.
Longer commitments on managed offices deliver better value, with most providers offering attractive rates for 3 year agreements.
Is a Managed Office Right for Your Business?
Managed offices provide customisable workspaces with professional management and flexible lease terms.
They’re perfect for:
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- Growing businesses needing branded, customisable office space.
- Companies requiring dedicated workspace with specialised equipment.
- Organizations wanting professional management without long-term lease commitments.
- Businesses seeking better value than serviced offices for medium-term relocations.
- Large national and global businesses who find it easier to include all costs in the rent.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Managed Office in Manchester?
At Canning O’Neill, we specialise in helping Manchester businesses discover flexible, customisable workspace solutions. Our expert team understands the local market and can guide you to the perfect managed office that balances customisation with professional management.
Contact our Manchester office specialists today to discuss your requirements and arrange viewings of available managed offices across the city.
Want to explore other office types? Learn about serviced offices or traditional leased offices, or compare all options side by side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a serviced office and a managed office?
A managed office gives you a dedicated space you can customise and brand. Serviced offices come fully furnished and ready to use – what you see is what you get. Managed offices offer more control and offer the option for upfront fit-out and furniture investment.
How long does it take to set up a managed office in Manchester?
Usually 2 to 4 weeks, depending on design, fit-out, and furniture installation. Timing depends on your specific needs and approvals.
Can I expand my managed office space as my business grows?
Yes. Most providers in Manchester allow you to scale your space up or down within the building.
What lease terms are typical?
Leases are typically available from 12 months, offering more flexibility than traditional leases and more stability than serviced offices.
Are utilities and services included?
Basic utilities and building services are included. The monthly bill is customisable – think of it as a shopping list where you can select and deselect options.
