Choosing the right facilities management (FM) company is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and ensuring a safe, clean, and well-functioning environment.
At Bristol-based Almeda, we offer industry leading FM services across the region and the wider UK.
Whether it is hard FM or soft FM, there are key attributes to look out for.
Here, we outline a step-by-step guide to help you make the best choice when it comes to hiring an FM company for you.
What are your needs? And have they delivered in the past?
You need to identify your needs and the needs of everyone involved in the facility. This includes the people, the buildings and the surrounding environment.
No matter the scope of the services – if you require maintenance, cleaning, security, HVAC, landscaping, waste management, building fabric services, or reactive management – ensure you have this written down in a contract.
Next, set a clear budget for facilities management and understand what level of service you expect within that range. Let the FM firm outline what their services are and what you can expect.
When doing this, it is important to consider industry regulations and compliance standards (health, safety, environment) that the FM company must adhere to.
Reputation and results
Check out what Almeda’s clients have said about their work.
Almeda has vast experience in the industry and has a diverse and reputable client base across Bristol, the South West, and across the UK.
The company also holds the relevant and legal certifications, such as ISO standards, and licenses specific to facilities management.
Technology has become crucial to FM, and Almeda integrates the latest innovations when needed.
This includes data and reporting, which provides insights into your facilities’ performance.
Success in facilities management
When selecting your facilities management company, ensure the company is financially stable and capable of supporting long-term contracts.
Almeda recorded its best year in business last year – and is set up to continue its success long into the future.
The company should also have comprehensive insurance to cover potential damages, liability, and employee coverage.
Flexibility
The facilities management company should be able to tailor services to fit your specific needs rather than offering a one-size-fits-all package.
This includes room for growth and the ability to react to problems, should they arise.
Assess how quickly the company responds to issues, emergencies, and maintenance requests. Faster response times are critical for minimising disruptions.
Sustainability and the environment
Choose an FM company that follows sustainable and eco-friendly practices, such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water management.
These are all essential for modern FM – and something that you’ll outline with them before they start any work on site.
Look for companies that hold environmental certifications, indicating a commitment to sustainable practices.
If you would like to speak to Almeda about reactive maintenance, facilities management, or our building fabric services, call 0117 937 6320 or email [email protected].