Upcoming changes to EPC and MEES regulations mean you need to be on top of your property’s building services like never before. To make it easier to navigate, we’ve put together a list of the top 5 Hard Facilities Maintenance (FM) considerations to help you increase the lifespan of your assets and equipment, and save money with fewer maintenance requests.
5 Essential Elements of Effective Hard FM:
1. Preventive Maintenance Plans for your property:
Implementing scheduled maintenance routines is crucial in addressing your potential issues before they escalate. The goal is to minimise downtime, extend asset lifespan, and reduce repair costs. According to the SFG20, the industry standard for building maintenance, proper preventive maintenance can see cost savings of up to 20% by moving to a planned preventative maintenance regime.
2. Energy Efficiency Measures:
Adopting energy-efficient technologies and practices plays a pivotal role in reducing your consumption and minimising environmental impact. The overarching goal is to lower your utility expenses, enhance sustainability efforts, and meet regulatory requirements. Implementing energy-efficient upgrades can lead to significant utility savings of 10-30% annually. By embracing these technologies and practices, you not only contribute to environmental conservation but also reap financial benefits through reduced energy costs, thus fostering a more sustainable and cost-effective operation.
3. Compliance Management:
Ensuring adherence to building codes, safety regulations, and industry standards is essential. The goal is to mitigate your legal risks, enhance your occupant’s safety, and maintain your property value. Failure to comply with regulations can result in fines, legal liabilities, and reputational damage. In addition, failure to comply with the MEES Regulations could result in an inability to let a building to prospective tenants and the building risks becoming a stranded asset. By actively prioritising compliance, you not only safeguard against potential penalties but also create a safer environment for your occupants while preserving the value and integrity of your properties.
4. Asset Lifecycle Management:
Developing strategies for the effective management of asset lifecycles, from acquisition to disposal, is paramount. The goal is to optimise asset performance, minimise downtime, and maximise return on your investment. Proper lifecycle management can extend asset lifespan by 20-40%, as highlighted by the International Facility Management Association. By proactively managing asset lifecycles, you can significantly enhance operational efficiency and financial returns while ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of assets throughout their lifespan.
5. Vendor and Contractor Management:
Establishing partnerships with reliable service providers for efficient maintenance and repair works is crucial. The goal is to ensure timely and quality service delivery, minimise disruptions, and control costs. Effective vendor management can reduce maintenance costs by 5-10%, as stated by FacilitiesNet. By actively managing vendor relationships, you can optimise service quality while achieving cost efficiencies, thus ensuring smooth operations and optimal performance of your facilities.
Getting Started with Hard Facilities Management
Whether you are new to property management or have been in the industry for a long time, hopefully, you have gained a stronger understanding of how hard facilities management is essential to protecting your property and maintaining compliance with the changing EPC regulations.
Every building is different and will need a bespoke maintenance plan tailored to its individual needs – this is where we can help at Gratte Brothers Building Services Maintenance Ltd. Take the first step to protecting your buildings by visiting our contact page.
Written by James Richardson, Commercial Manager at Gratte Brothers Building Services Maintenance Ltd.
