Commercial Building Compliance Checklist

July 28th, 2023

Last updated: May 7th, 2024

Business owners and the owners of commercial buildings have a legal duty to keep their building compliant. There are so many different laws and regulations to consider, and it can be tough to understand (and track) every aspect of health and safety.

Many larger businesses rely on the help of a facilities services company to help them manage their obligations when it comes to health and safety, but smaller businesses may want to take on as many tasks as they can themselves. Our legal building compliance checklist is not exhaustive, but it does give a strong idea of the areas you need to cover if you are an owner or operator of a commercial premises.

Below is a general building compliance checklist for UK businesses. Please note that building compliance requirements may vary depending on the type of business, industry, and location. This list should serve as a starting point and may need to be tailored to specific circumstances:

1. Building Permits and Planning Permissions:
   • Verify that the building has the necessary planning permissions and permits for its current use.
   • Check if any recent changes or modifications to the building require additional permits.
2. Fire Safety:
   • Ensure the building has an adequate fire detection and alarm system in place.
   • Test and maintain fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and emergency lighting regularly.
   • Establish and communicate evacuation procedures and assembly points.
   • Conduct regular fire drills with employees to ensure everyone is familiar with the evacuation process.
3. Building Structure and Accessibility:
   • Ensure that the building’s structure complies with relevant building codes and regulations.
   • Verify accessibility for people with disabilities, including ramps, elevators, and accessible toilets.
4. Electrical Safety:
   • Ensure that the electrical installations are safe and comply with electrical regulations.
   • Regularly inspect and maintain electrical equipment and wiring.
   • Keep a record of electrical inspections and any actions taken. PAT testing is a good way to ensure electrical items have been tested and checked.
5. Gas and Plumbing Safety:
   • Maintain gas appliances and equipment in a safe condition, complying with Gas Safety Regulations.
   • Check plumbing systems for leaks and potential hazards.
6. Health and Safety:
   • Implement a Health and Safety policy and conduct risk assessments regularly.
   • Provide appropriate safety equipment for employees as necessary.
   • Display relevant safety signs and warnings throughout the building.
7. Asbestos Management:
   • If the building was constructed before 2000, ensure compliance with asbestos regulations.
   • Conduct asbestos surveys and maintain a management plan if asbestos is present.
8. Ventilation and Air Quality:
   • Ensure proper ventilation and air quality, especially in areas where pollutants or hazardous materials are used.
9. Waste Management:
   • Comply with waste disposal regulations and ensure proper waste and recycling practices.
10. Lifts:
    • If applicable, ensure that lifts are inspected, certified, and maintained according to regulations.
11. Energy Performance:
    • Obtain and display an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) if required for the building.
12. Noise and Vibration:
    • Control noise levels within the building and comply with regulations regarding noise at work.
13. Signage and Emergency Exits:
    • Clearly mark emergency exits, escape routes, and safety equipment locations with appropriate signage.
14. Security:
    • Implement adequate security measures to protect the building and its occupants.
15. Occupancy and Maximum Capacity:
    • Ensure the building is not overcrowded and stays within its maximum occupancy limits.
16. Insurance:
    • Verify that the building’s insurance coverage is up-to-date and appropriate for the business needs.
17. Environmental Regulations:
    • Comply with relevant environmental regulations concerning emissions, waste, and pollution.
18. Public Health:
    • If required, meet public health requirements related to food preparation and handling (e.g., for factories and restaurants).
19. Display of Certificates and Licenses:
    • Display all required certificates, licenses, and permits in a visible and accessible location.
20. Record Keeping:
    • Maintain records of inspections, maintenance, and any actions taken to address compliance issues.

It is essential for businesses to regularly review and update their building compliance checklist to ensure ongoing adherence to relevant laws and regulations. Engaging with professional consultants or authorities may also help to ensure comprehensive compliance in specific areas.

Different businesses may have their own specific restrictions and regulations to adhere to. We’ve already briefly mentioned some of the compliance issues that may come up if you are dealing with food and drink.

With a Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) contract from Robinsons Facilities Services, we can offer you peace of mind that your commercial building’s assets are well maintained, safe and compliant with our commercial boiler, air conditioning, and plumbing experts. We can also incorporate a whole range of other commercial building services into your tailor-made contract, such as fire detection systems, PAT or legionella testing, lift maintenance and much more.