The specific utilities available in your building can depend on the type of building and business that you have. That being said, there are a few universal basics every building should have, not only for convenience, but out of a legal obligation. You want to provide your staff with a safe, sanitary, and comfortable enviornment to work in, and to do that there are a few areas you should make sure are up to code.
Water Service
Your store needs water for hygiene and safety purposes. This ranges from items such as restroom facilities to potable drinking water that’s readily available to all employees. However, it’s important to be aware of potential health risks such as Legionella, a bacteria that can thrive in water systems and cause serious illness. There are several places that offer readily available water services, and if you live in the city, you can take advantage of these services quite easily. If you happen to be based in a more rural area, you can see what’s available in your area, or consider digging a well on your property. This would provide you with immediate and constant access to water, but regular maintenance and monitoring for contaminants, including Legionella, are crucial to ensure safety.
Electricity
Many aspects of modern daily life require electricity to even function. From lighting to electrical outlets, your store most likely relies on a decent electrical supply for day to day functions. Decent commercial lighting is important to provide your staff with the ability to see what they’re doing, and you also need power to keep your machinery and equipment running smoothly. You will probably pay more for electricity than any of your other utilities simply because it can do so much for you and is relied on for so many things. However, there are ways that you can save money on it.
For example, you can compare different electricity plans in order to find one that is best for your store. There’s also solar power options available, most of which simply require a few solar panels to be installed on your roof.
Communication Services
You need telephone and internet services for your store. Most likely to actually conduct business, but also so you can generally communicate with people. People will try to call your store, whether they be customers with requrests or questions, or employees trying to communicate with you.
Having internet capabilities allows your store to manage a website, process online orders if that’s a service you offer, and reach out via the internet. You can easily bundle these services together through many phone or internet companies, you just have to decide what plan sounds right for you and how much you’re willing to pay.
Sewage Services
There are some companies out there that will include sewer with your water services. However, others may not and you’ll have to pay separately for it. You will likely need a sewer service if your business is located in a rural area and your plumbing is connected to a septic tank. No matter what though, a sewage service, and the general ability to connect to a sewage system, is important in keeping your facilities sanitary.
Trash Services
You may need a trash service for your business. If you live in the city, then your trash services may be covered by your taxes. This means that you may not have to pay separately for it. However, if your trash services are not covered, then you will have to reach out to a private company to take care of what you throw away. If you have to remove hazardous materials from your business, then you may have to spend even more money to get them safely removed.
You need to have the right utilities for your store in order to run it properly. You need to have the basic services, which include water, electricity, and sewage. You may also be required to get a separate service for your trash. Additionally, you need to have communication services, which include internet and phone, for your store.
Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.
