What Does a Building Management and Facility Management Company Do?

Building and facility management companies play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of properties, from residential rentals to commercial buildings. These companies typically handle a wide range of tasks, including maintenance, security, and overall facility optimization. Understanding the services they provide can help you make informed decisions about how to manage your property effectively.

Key Services Provided by Building and Facility Management Companies

Property management companies are responsible for overseeing rental properties and all the tasks associated with them. They execute various duties, such as:

Finding and screening tenants Handling paperwork and rent collection Dealing with tenant issues and complaints Ensuring the properties remain well-maintained Performing regular inspections and addressing maintenance issues Providing 24/7 support for emergencies Handling all financial and legal aspects of property management Marketing the properties to attract new tenants Dealing with tenant evictions if necessary Customizing services for special property types, such as hotels

Facility management companies, on the other hand, ensure the smooth operation of the entire business infrastructure. Their services can include:

Handling compliance and health and safety regulations Running front-of-house operations, such as cleaning and security Managing office post rooms and facilities

Differentiating Hard and Soft FM Services

In the UK, facility management companies often specialize in either Hard FM or Soft FM services. Here’s how to differentiate between them:

Hard FM

Hard FM focuses on the physical building itself. This includes tasks such as:

Building maintenance and repairs Structural inspections Environmental controls Security systems Energy efficiency measures

Soft FM

Soft FM, as the name suggests, focuses on managing the users of the building and their needs. This includes tasks such as:

Office cleaning and maintenance Last-mile logistics and distribution Facility usage and availability Employee welfare and comfort

The key takeaway is that hard FM deals with the physical assets of a building, while soft FM deals with the operations and users within the building.

Benefits of Hiring a Management and Facility Management Company

Hiring a building and facility management company comes with numerous benefits:

Fill vacancies quickly using their local market knowledge and experience Screen reliable tenants to reduce the risk of property damage and unpaid rent Follow regulations and rules to minimize legal risks and ensure compliance Work with vetted contractors to save on expenses and ensure quality repairs Focus on core business activities without the burden of day-to-day facility management Enhance safety and efficiency through expert management and oversight

These companies streamline operations, making it easier for landlords, property owners, and businesses to maintain their properties and facilities. By outsourcing these responsibilities, you can concentrate on your core competencies, ensuring a conducive environment for success.