Although your business office is temporarily closed, you should still check on things to ensure that no problems have developed. Since the building is likely still operating at least minimally, do a maintenance check on these four areas, since things can break down with no around to monitor on a daily basis.
Electric
Hopefully you have recently changed the batteries in quality smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide alarms. Test them to ensure they are still working correctly. Inspect your electrical outlets and connections for signs of overheating or frayed wires. If you notice anything of concern, contact commercial electrical services to schedule a professional evaluation. Make sure everything electrical is safe and unlikely to spark a fire while the office is closed.
HVAC
Switch on the air conditioner and the heat system to see if both are working as they should. Check for any unusual sounds or smells and be sure the temperature reading on the thermostat is accurately reporting the air temperature being controlled by the HVAC system. If the office seems dusty or smells musty, try to ventilate the area by opening windows while you are there and running the air conditioner to circulate indoor air.
Plumbing
Take a careful look at all the water areas in the office to check for leaks, drips, or condensation. The faucets should be firmly closed without signs of recent moisture. The toilet should flush smoothly without backing up or being too sluggish. Check the sink basins to ensure that water runs through the plumbing without hesitation. If there is a basement drain or a garage drain, ensure those are still working properly. Inspect the plumbing for evidence of moisture dripping from the pipes. Take note of any mildew spots or mold smells. Look for symptoms of roof leakage, especially if there has been heavy rain lately.
Technology
Turn on the computer and see if the cable connection is still working. Make sure the printer, fax machine, and copier are operational by switching them on and off briefly. Recent storms may have knocked out the electric power or damaged any machinery that is plugged into an outlet, so check for damage. If you use monitors in the office, be sure they are in good condition as well.
Checking on your office by doing occasional maintenance checks helps to catch problems early, when they are easier and cheaper to repair. Stop by the office every week or two and ensure everything is in good condition.
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.
