For commercial buildings and properties, preventative maintenance is essential to ensure optimal functionality, minimize potential risks, and prolong their lifespan.
By implementing a comprehensive maintenance checklist, property owners can identify and address issues proactively, saving time and money in the long run. This article presents a preventive maintenance checklist for commercial buildings.

Preventative Maintenance Checklist
- Replace burned-out interior and exterior light bulbs.
- Inspect roof and clean gutters
- Check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (monthly).
- Inspect the property for signs of rodent or pest damage.
- Check the building for visible signs of leaks or water damage.
- Plumbing
- HVAC Maintenance
- Commercial generator maintenance (and backup power)
- Electrical & Lighting System maintenance
- Test smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide and changing batteries
- Flushing of water heater
- Replace the water filters (monthly).
- Have the fire alarm and fire suppression system serviced.
- Inspect door closers, latches, hinges, and locks
- regular maintenance to your commercial property security system
1. Replace burned-out interior and exterior light bulbs
Regularly inspect and replace any burned-out light bulbs to maintain proper illumination and ensure a safe environment for occupants.
2. Inspect the Roof and Clean the Gutters
Perform routine roof inspections to identify any signs of damage, such as loose or missing shingles. Additionally, clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water buildup and potential water damage.
3. Check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Test the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and replace them as needed to guarantee their proper functioning and provide a safe environment for occupants.
4. Inspect the property for signs of rodent or pest damage
Regularly check the property for signs of rodent or pest infestations, such as droppings or chewed wires. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage. For preventative pest control, consider having a company come in every 3-4 months.
5. Check the building for visible signs of leaks or water damage
Inspect the property for any visible signs of leaks, such as water stains or damp areas. Addressing leaks promptly can prevent extensive water damage and mold growth.
6. Plumbing
Schedule regular plumbing inspections to identify potential issues, such as leaks, clogged drains, or malfunctioning fixtures. Prompt repairs can prevent water damage and ensure efficient water usage.
7. HVAC Maintenance
They maintained regular HVAC system inspections, including cleaning or replacing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring the proper functioning of thermostats and controls. Proper HVAC maintenance improves energy efficiency and enhances indoor air quality.
8. Commercial generator maintenance
Inspect and maintain commercial generators regularly to ensure they are in optimal condition. Test backup power systems to guarantee they can provide electricity during emergencies.
9. Electrical & Lighting System Maintenance
Inspect electrical systems for wear, loose connections, or outdated wiring. Also, perform regular maintenance on lighting systems, including cleaning fixtures and replacing faulty components.
10. Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and change batteries
Regularly test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they function correctly. Replace batteries as needed to maintain their reliability.
11. Flushing of water heater
Flush water heaters periodically to remove sediment and mineral buildup, improving efficiency and extending lifespan.
12. Replace water filters
Replace water filters regularly to maintain water quality and prevent clogs in plumbing fixtures and equipment.
13. Have the fire alarm and fire suppression system serviced
Schedule professional servicing of fire alarm and fire suppression systems to ensure they are in optimal working condition and comply with safety regulations.
14. Inspect door closers, latches, hinges, and locks
Check and lubricate door closers, latches, hinges, and locks regularly to ensure smooth operation and enhance security.
15. Regular maintenance of commercial property security system
Perform routine commercial security system maintenance, including testing alarms, reviewing camera footage, and ensuring all components function correctly.
Following this preventative maintenance checklist for commercial properties, property owners can minimize downtime, reduce repair costs, and provide tenants and visitors with a safe and well-maintained environment.
Preventative Maintenance in Michigan
Damage to a commercial property add up quickly. U&S Companies, is a commercial general contractor in Michigan providing maintenance for multi-family properties, commercial buildings, and industrial businesses.