As the holiday season approaches, many businesses take a well-deserved break. However, leaving your office or commercial premises unattended can come with risks. To ensure your return is stress-free, here are six essential steps to take before closing your office for the holidays:

1. Shut Off Your Main Water Supply
If your building will be empty for an extended period, shutting off the main water supply is a simple but effective way to avoid potential disasters like pipe bursts or leaks. This proactive measure can prevent costly water damage and give you peace of mind.

2. Secure Your Premises
Unattended properties can be a target for thieves, especially when neighbouring businesses are also closed. Take these steps to secure your premises:
– Check all windows and doors to ensure they are locked.
– Test your alarm system and ensure it's activated.
– Review your CCTV cameras and make sure they are operational.
– Notify your security provider of your closure dates, if applicable.
– Crime tends to increase over the holiday period, so extra vigilance can make a big difference.

3. Keep Pallets, Bins, and Rubbish Away from the Building
Pallets and bins stored close to your building can become a fire hazard. Moving them further away from the structure reduces the risk of accidental or intentional fires, especially when the property is unsupervised.

4. Unplug Electrical Devices and Machinery
Unplugging non-essential equipment not only saves energy but also reduces the risk of electrical fires and potential damage from power surges. Take inventory of all devices, including computers, printers, and machinery, and ensure they are powered down safely.

5. Pay Upcoming Invoices
Avoid unnecessary stress or late payment penalties by settling any invoices due during your break. For longer closures, consider scheduling automatic payments or clearing bills in advance. This small step ensures your holiday remains worry-free and helps maintain strong relationships with suppliers and service providers.

6. Conduct Pest Control Measures
Warmer weather can bring pests out of dormancy. To prevent unwanted guests like rodents or insects, clean out all rubbish, food scraps, and perishable items from the premises. A quick pest control check before the break can save you from dealing with infestations upon your return.

By taking these simple precautions, you can leave your office with confidence, knowing your premises are more safe and secure.

Do you need assistance with property management over the holiday period? Contactour team at Commercial Realty Ltd for tailored solutions to keep your premises in top condition all year round.