A proactive, in-house maintenance strategy reduces operating costs and protects long-term asset value. Key takeaways include: Deferred maintenance increases total cost by turning manageable repairs into expensive emergencies Preventive maintenance reduces breakdowns, extends equipment life, and stabilizes operating budgets In-house maintenance teams can significantly lower costs by performing routine and moderate repairs internally Contractor use should be strategic—reserved

Snow introduces a sequence of risks that begin well before a storm arrives and can persist for days or even weeks afterward. Snowfall is one of the most predictable hazards a facility will face, yet it continues to be a leading contributor to injuries, property damage, and operational disruption. One of the most common mistakes in building operations is treating snow as a short-term event rather than an ongoing condition. Effective winter safety management requires planning,

A structured look back allows you to identify recurring issues, uncover systemic weaknesses, and eliminate problems rather than carrying them forward into the next year. As another year closes, facilities teams often focus on budgets, inspections, and preparing for what lies ahead. However, one of the most valuable exercises you can undertake is a disciplined review of the past year’s maintenance performance. This process is not about assigning blame; it is about learning, im

Whether you manage a facility or provide services to one, trust is built through consistency, accountability, and attention to detail. Whenever you use vendors, it adds cost to your facility’s operation. Because of that, it is critical to ensure you are receiving not just competitive pricing, but consistent quality and professionalism. Price alone should never be the deciding factor. The quality of work, reliability, and the overall experience of working with a vendor are equ

Even when a building is unoccupied, its primary systems—including heating, cooling, HVAC, and fire protection and suppression—must continue to function effectively. Managing Risk During Short-Term Closures and Long-Term Vacancies Buildings don’t stop aging—or failing—just because people aren’t inside them. In fact, some of the most costly facility issues occur when buildings are partially or fully unoccupied. Holiday closures, long weekends, tenant move-outs, and extended vac

A punch list serves as the final quality review before the building is turned over. It identifies work that is incomplete, incorrect, or not performing properly After a major renovation, the work isn’t truly finished when construction ends. The closeout phase—especially a well-managed punch-list process—is critical to ensuring all systems and finishes perform as intended, issues are documented and corrected, and your investment delivers the results promised at the start of th

Securing approvals for maintenance or repair projects is one of the most common—and most frustrating—challenges in facilities management. You can clearly see the leak, the worn-out pump, the failing HVAC component, or the deteriorating sidewalk. You know what will happen if nothing is done. But decision-makers often don’t feel the urgency until after a failure has already caused damage, downtime, or complaints. There are many reasons why approvals get delayed or denied, even

"Progress is absolutely possible — but it happens through consistent steps, not overnight miracles." Walking into a troubled property can feel overwhelming. Years of deferred maintenance, inconsistent repairs, poor documentation, and “band-aid fixes” pile up into a long list of problems that all feel urgent. But the truth is this: any property—no matter how troubled or even neglected—can be brought back under control with the right process, discipline, and starting point. It’

Winter brings a major risk for building owners and facility managers: frozen pipes. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands, which can crack or rupture the pipe. Sometimes damage is immediate, but often the pipe freezes, cracks silently, and only leaks when temperatures rise and ice melts—causing flooding and costly property damage. Domestic Water vs. Fire Sprinkler Systems Domestic water lines are somewhat less vulnerable because hot water and circulator pumps help to

“One of the simplest — yet most powerful — habits any facility manager or technician can develop is walking the building every day.” In the fast-paced world of facility management, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest software, dashboards, and automation tools. But sometimes, the smartest move you can make is to take a step back and focus on the fundamentals — the simple, consistent habits that keep your building running smoothly. Going “back to basics” in building mainte

“Every dollar you save in maintenance is a dollar you can reinvest in performance, safety, and longevity. Efficiency starts with strategy — not spending.” A well-managed maintenance program is one of the most powerful tools a facility can use to control costs and improve operations. By focusing on efficiency, planning, and proactive care, facility managers can dramatically reduce emergency expenses, improve equipment reliability, and create a safer, more predictable environme

Your property’s exterior is more than just a first impression—it’s a reflection of care, safety, and long-term value. Quick Outline • Update Your Online Presence • Refresh Your Entryway • Upgrade Landscaping • Enhance Lighting and Signage Whether you manage a commercial building, oversee a residential complex, or own a private home, improving curb appeal can elevate both perception and performance. Update Your Online Presence Before anyone visits your property, they’re likely

Without the implementation of best practices, repeated work and tasks are often performed inconsistently, leading to variations in quality and outcomes. Best practices are established methods or techniques that have consistently demonstrated superior results when compared to other alternatives. In the realm of facilities maintenance, these practices play a crucial role in ensuring efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the management of physical assets. Buildings can have

"A fireplace is not just a source of warmth; it is the heart of the home. Proper care ensures it continues to burn bright, providing...

CMMS allows facilities personnel to quickly share relevant building information with ease. Benefits of Using a CMMS for Facility Managers...

Winter is just around the corner, the first storm can bring operations to a halt. Start preparing now so you're not caught off guard....

As the leaves start to turn, it’s the perfect time to prepare your building for storm season and colder weather. The exterior and roof...