How to choose a facilities management company
Choose a facilities management company that surveys your site before pricing, writes down response times and scope, shows how it will evidence compliance, and gives you one point of contact for every service.
Ask for a site survey first
A reliable quote comes from walking the building and listing the assets. Be wary of prices given without a visit, because they often exclude items that later become extras.
Check the scope and exclusions
Ask exactly which assets and tasks are covered, at what frequency, and what is excluded. Check how reactive work is charged and what spend limit applies before you are asked to approve a quote.
Look at reporting and evidence
You should be able to see what was done, when, and the certificates that prove it. Ask for a sample monthly report and how remedials are tracked to completion.
Check competence
Ask how operatives are vetted and what qualifications they hold for specialist work, such as F-gas, gas safety, fire alarm servicing and electrical testing. Ask for references from customers with similar buildings.
Questions
How long should an FM contract be?
Typically 12 to 36 months, with a clear notice period and the option to review performance at set points.
Should I use one contractor or several?
One contractor reduces management time and gives a single view of compliance. Several specialists can suit very complex sites. Many businesses start with a bundled contract and keep a specialist for unusual plant.