Five Things To Consider When Choosing A Facilities
Management Company

Here at UK Gutter Maintenance, we work with a variety of companies to address their gutter cleaning needs, including working with clients directly, as well as with a number of facilities management companies. As such we know a thing or two about what a good facilities management company should look like, and what to consider when choosing one.

With the right decision, you can expect to enjoy both cost savings and improved efficiency from having professional oversight of your property from an expert facilities management company, particularly if you’re running a multi-site business. But there are many factors to consider when choosing one, so how do you decide which is best for your organisation’s needs? Here we share five key considerations that will help guide you through the process of selecting an experienced and reputable facility manager for your estate.

Know Your Needs

Whether you’re a business owner, Operations Director or Buildings & Estates Manager, it’s important to understand what kind of services you need from a facilities management company to ensure that they are the right fit for your business, and this includes ensuring that they consider any quirks or variables which are specific to your business. For instance, do you require regular cleaning services or occasional deep cleaning? Do you need a provider who can manage your on-site security or your building’s energy efficiency? Are you looking for someone to provide routine gutter maintenance services to ensure your outside is as pristine as your inside? Understanding your needs is key to pinpointing the right facilities management partner who can offer you tailored services that meet your business’s unique needs. By doing so, you’ll be able to maximise your facility’s efficiency, minimise costs and ensure that your operations run smoothly.

Research Different Options

When it comes to facilities management, it’s crucial to find a company that can meet your needs whilst providing high-quality service. Researching different options can help you to understand what kind of services are available in the market, allowing you to compare pricing and customer reviews. Whilst it can seem like a daunting task, taking the time to find the best facilities management company for you can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. It may be that you don’t actually need a facilities management company at all, and would prefer to tender specific elements of their services to individual companies who are specialists in their field. For example, you may wish to have heating and plumbing experts looking after your boilers or a gutter maintenance specialist such as ourselves to take care of your gutters and roofing.

Check References and Reviews

Just as it is when buying or entering into a contract for anything, when it comes to selecting a facilities management company, checking references and reviews should be a top priority. It’s a crucial step to getting a better understanding of how the company operates and their level of service. Asking for references from previous clients can give you insight into things like reliability, communication, and overall satisfaction. Once you have those references, be sure to follow up with them and ask specific questions about their experience with the company. This way, you can make an informed decision about whether or not a particular company is the right fit for your needs. Remember, taking the time to check references is an investment in the future success of your facility.

Contract Length

When selecting a facilities management company, one important aspect to consider is the length of contract you are willing to commit to. It is crucial to determine the optimal duration of the contract that meets your organisation’s needs. Longer contracts typically come with more favourable rates and allow for the company to invest in your facilities for a longer period of time. However, shorter contracts provide flexibility in the event that your organisation’s needs change or you are dissatisfied with the services provided. Ultimately, it is important to carefully assess your needs and weigh the pros and cons before signing on the dotted line.

Get It In Writing

It’s always important to clearly outline any agreements made between yourself and others. Whether it’s a business deal or a personal arrangement, making sure everything is in writing can save a lot of headaches down the line. A written contract can help to clarify any confusion over terms or expectations, ensuring that both parties are on the same page. Not only this, but it may be an idea to obtain a Service Level Agreement (SLA) which defines the level of service expected from a vendor, laying out the metrics by which service is measured, as well as remedies or penalties should agreed-on service levels not be achieved. This goes that one step further than a simple contract, which typically only dictates payment and length of the service. Ultimately though, by having at least one physical document to refer back to, everyone involved can feel confident that they understand their responsibilities and obligations.

All in all, when it comes to choosing the right facilities management company for your business, it is essential to do your research and understand what services you need. Not only should you consider the different options available and compare their services, pricing, and customer reviews, but also check references of any potential providers to make sure they are reliable. Furthermore, you should also determine how long you would like to be tied into a contract with them before signing on the dotted line as well as ensure that all agreements are written out in a contract. Taking these measures will help guarantee that you pick the right facility management company who will meet your needs and expectations while allowing your business to thrive.