The Hidden Value of Professional 
Facilities Management: Beyond the Basics 

In my years leading MWA Projects, a boutique contractor specialising in the complete lifecycle of commercial spaces - from design and build through to furnishing and ongoing maintenance - I have observed a concerning trend: the widespread underappreciation of professional facilities management. Despite high-profile incidents like the Grenfell Tower tragedy highlighting the critical importance of proper building maintenance and safety, I still encounter business leaders who believe complex maintenance can be managed by untrained staff or, worse, overlooked entirely.

This perspective often stems from a lack of awareness rather than negligence. As business leaders, we all share a responsibility to understand and protect our buildings and their occupants. While there are statutory obligations that come with managing commercial properties, the real focus should be on creating safe, efficient, and productive environments where businesses can thrive.

The Power of Integrated Facilities Management

The most effective FM solutions leverage fully integrated, in-house teams. When engineers, help desk staff, and facilities managers work together under one roof, the benefits are remarkable. In-house engineers develop deep familiarity with your systems and can respond quickly to issues, while a dedicated help desk provides crucial continuity and communication. This integrated approach ensures nothing falls through the cracks.

Consider how a typical maintenance issue flows through an integrated system: The help desk receives a call about an HVAC problem, immediately accesses the system's maintenance history, and dispatches an engineer who already knows the equipment. This seamless process contrasts sharply with outsourced solutions where information can be fragmented across multiple providers, leading to delays and miscommunication.

The value of in-house teams extends beyond just rapid response. These teams develop comprehensive knowledge of building systems over time, enabling them to spot potential issues before they become problems. They can also provide valuable insights for long-term planning and improvement.

The Strategic Role of Dedicated Account Managers

Another crucial element in effective FM is the role of dedicated account managers. These professionals serve as the strategic bridge between operational teams and business objectives. Unlike traditional property managers, skilled account managers bring a deeper understanding of both technical requirements and business needs.

A dedicated account manager transforms day-to-day FM into a strategic partnership. They analyse patterns in maintenance data, identify opportunities for efficiency improvements, and ensure that facilities operations align with business goals. This proactive approach helps organisations move from reactive maintenance to strategic asset management.

Furthermore, account managers provide continuity and accountability. They ensure consistent service delivery, maintain clear communication channels, and develop deep understanding of their clients' specific needs and preferences. This personalised attention allows for better resource allocation, more accurate budgeting, and improved long-term planning.

Understanding SFG20: The Gold Standard in Maintenance

One of our most valuable tools is SFG20, the industry's premier maintenance specification. Let me explain why this matters to you. SFG20 is essentially a living, breathing maintenance encyclopaedia, developed by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). It provides detailed, up-to-date maintenance schedules for over 70 equipment types across multiple building systems.

Why is this important? SFG20 helps ensure:

• Your maintenance schedules are optimised based on actual equipment needs.
•  Tasks are carried out by appropriately qualified personnel.
•  Maintenance frequency is adjusted based on factors like equipment age, usage, and environment.
•  Compliance with relevant regulations and standards is maintained.
• Asset life is maximised through proper care.

For example, SFG20 might specify that a particular type of air handling unit needs quarterly filter changes under normal conditions, but monthly changes in more demanding environments. This level of detail and flexibility ensures you are neither over-maintaining (wasting money) nor under-maintaining (risking breakdowns) your equipment.

The Real Value Proposition

When implemented correctly, professional FM creates substantial value. Our experience shows that properly maintained assets can last up to 25% longer than those under reactive maintenance regimes. This is not just about avoiding breakdowns – it's about optimising your building's performance and protecting your investment.

Consider this real-world example: a typical commercial air conditioning system might cost £100,000 to replace. With proper maintenance following SFG20 guidelines, its life can be extended by 5-7 years. Now multiply this across all your building systems – the financial benefits become significant.

A Collaborative Approach to Building Care

What sets MWA Projects apart is our commitment to collaborating with our clients. We do not just maintain buildings; we help our clients understand their facilities better. Through regular communication, detailed reporting, and proactive recommendations, we ensure you're always informed about your building's health and upcoming needs.

We have found that this collaborative approach leads to better outcomes. When clients understand the 'why' behind maintenance recommendations, they make more informed decisions about their facilities. These understanding builds trust and allows us to work together more effectively to protect and enhance their assets.

Looking to the Future

The FM industry stands at a crucial juncture. The lessons learned from past incidents, combined with advancing technology and evolving workplace needs, demand a more sophisticated approach to building care. Professional FM is no longer just about maintaining equipment – it's about creating environments that enhance business performance while ensuring safety and compliance.

The future belongs to those who embrace this comprehensive approach to FM. Organisations that invest in professional FM, backed by proper maintenance standards and integrated teams, will not only protect their assets but also create more productive, efficient, and sustainable workplaces.

As we move forward, the industry must continue to evolve, embracing new technologies while maintaining the human expertise that lies at the heart of effective facilities management. The buildings we manage are more than just structures – they're the foundations upon which businesses build their future.