What are building services?
Every building requires some form of building services to provide comfort, and safety and ensure efficiency for its inhabitants.
The range of building services is wide and typically includes one or more of the following:
- Heating, ventilation and cooling systems
- Distribution and supply of energy*
- Escalators and lifts
- Fire safety, detection and protection
- Drainage
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Pipework
- Health and safety
- Legionella prevention
*gas, electricity and renewable sources such as solar, wind, geothermal and biomass)
Building services are designed, installed and maintained by specialist mechanical and engineering contractors (M&E) who will ensure that key areas of a building are working effectively.
M&E projects can range from private dwellings to commercial buildings and will need to meet specific and individual requirements depending on the building and purpose.
For example, we worked on a contract for a purpose-built autism centre that required special acoustics and comfort cooling essentials, find out more here
Other specialist projects can be viewed here.
Who typically works with building services companies?
- Construction companies
- Consultancies and contractors
- Property firms and/or facilities management companies
- NHS and universities and other organisations that operate from a large number of sites
- Local authorities and central government organisations
What is facilities management (FM)?
Facility management (FM) involves making sure building services systems work harmoniously so the places in which people work, play, learn and live are safe, comfortable, productive and sustainable.
Once your building services have been installed by your M&E contractor, we would recommend having an ongoing facilities maintenance contract in place to maintain the efficiency, security and comfort of your building.
A maintenance contract will provide you with preventative measures as well as a speedy call out system in the event of any system failures that are likely to affect business continuity.
Top 5 benefits of working with a facilities management specialist
1. Building efficiency
Having the correct building services installed and maintained in your building will improve your overall energy efficiency and therefore help to reduce costs.
2. Comfort
The installation of building services will ensure a building is maintained at a comfortable temperature for the inhabitants, this can include heating and cooling systems as well as the right ventilation.
Having the right acoustics installed will ensure that there is no noise disruption.
3. Disaster Prevention
Fire alarm installations and regular testing of the equipment will help to prevent fire disasters, while PAT testing provides peace of mind that portable electrical devices are safe and working correctly.
4. Security
Having security systems installed throughout your business will ensure your business is fully functional and fully protected against theft and or damage.
5. Compliance
There are strict health and safety regulations for building services. Working with an M&E contractor, will ensure that your building is fully compliant.
Things to look out for in a facilities maintenance specialist (FM)
- What areas are covered?
- Do they offer 24/7 cover?
- Do they have performance indicators?
Take a look at some of the companies we have maintenance contracts with.
If you would like the peace of mind that comes with a maintenance contract, or you would like advice, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Facilities Management Team.
