As pupils prepare their reading lists, teachers finalise curriculums, and parents shop for uniforms, school facilities also need to get ready for the new academic year. One of the most important tasks is ensuring buildings, equipment, and grounds are safe, efficient, and able to handle the wear and tear of daily school life.
As specialists in educational facilities management, we know exactly which jobs should be prioritised. Below, we’ve outlined the six essential school maintenance tasks to tackle before term starts. Read on to find out what you can’t miss.
Need support in fulfilling some of these maintenance tasks and repairs? Hollywell is here to support with a wide array of educational facilities management services.
Why is it important to regularly maintain school facilities?
School facilities are the backbone of a safe and effective learning environment. Regular maintenance keeps classrooms, communal areas, and equipment in good working order throughout the year, creating a setting that supports both teaching and learning.
Beyond comfort, well-maintained facilities reduce the risk of accidents, costly breakdowns, and compliance issues.
From heating systems that keep students warm in winter to lighting, security alarms, and fire safety equipment, proactive maintenance reduces the chance of unexpected failures during term time. Plus, parents and visitors often judge a school’s standards by the condition of its buildings and grounds, so regular upkeep also contributes to reputation and student recruitment.
In short, routine maintenance of school facilities is more than fixing things when they break; it’s about protecting student well-being, reducing long-term costs, and maintaining a positive image of the school.
How often do you need to maintain school facilities?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you need to maintain school facilities, as different elements of a school require attention on different schedules. Some tasks, like cleaning classrooms, inspecting high-traffic hallways, and testing fire alarms, should be carried out weekly or monthly. Other more heavy-duty tasks, like servicing HVAC systems, deep-cleaning kitchens, or repainting classrooms, can be scheduled termly or annually.
A good rule of thumb is to create a planned preventative maintenance (PPM) schedule that outlines:
- Daily and weekly tasks: (cleaning, inspections, playground checks).
- Monthly and termly tasks: (safety testing, minor repairs, groundskeeping).
- Annual tasks: (deep cleaning, HVAC servicing, roof inspections, equipment replacements).
By spreading these tasks across the year, schools avoid overwhelming maintenance teams during the summer break and reduce the likelihood of unexpected mid-term disruptions.
Why the summer break is the best time for school maintenance?
All that said, the summer holiday remains the prime window for carrying out major maintenance projects. With students and staff away, facilities teams can safely access classrooms, gyms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces without causing disruption.
Larger projects, such as repainting corridors, resurfacing playgrounds, replacing boilers, or upgrading IT infrastructure, are often best scheduled during this downtime.
That said, relying solely on the summer months for maintenance can create unnecessary pressure. Smaller, preventative tasks should be tackled year-round to avoid costly repairs later. By combining ongoing upkeep during term time with strategic summer projects, schools can keep their facilities in optimal condition all year.
What are the 6 most important school facilities maintenance tasks?
Every school relies on a long list of systems, structures, and equipment to function smoothly. While there are dozens of tasks that contribute to keeping facilities in good shape, some are absolutely critical to ensuring safety, efficiency, and a positive learning environment. Here are six of the most important maintenance tasks every school should prioritise, especially before the start of a new term.
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Check alarms and safety systems
Fire alarms, smoke detectors, emergency lighting, and intruder alarms must be tested regularly – not just during the summer break. Not only are these systems vital for safeguarding students and staff, but they are also a legal compliance requirement.
Regular testing helps ensure that if an emergency occurs, the school is prepared and protected. Make sure all alarms are working and up to date before staff and students return.
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Resurface and maintain play areas
Playgrounds, sports courts, and outdoor spaces see heavy use and can quickly deteriorate. Cracks, uneven surfaces, or worn-out equipment can become safety hazards. Resurfacing, repainting court markings, and checking playground structures keep these areas safe and enjoyable for students.
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Inspect and repair electrical equipment
From classroom projectors to kitchen appliances, electrical equipment is essential in daily school operations. Routine inspections reduce the risk of fire hazards and costly breakdowns, while timely repairs extend the life of expensive assets.
Portable appliance testing (PAT) and fixed wire inspections should be included in the back-to-school facilities maintenance schedule.
Learn more about PAT testing and its importance in facilities like schools and railways in our blog.
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Service ventilation systems
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems directly impact comfort and air quality in classrooms. Servicing these systems before term starts ensures good airflow, temperature control, and energy efficiency. This is especially important in maintaining a healthy environment that supports concentration and well-being and is a crucial part of winter period school maintenance.
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Carry out plumbing and water safety checks
From washrooms and kitchens to science labs, reliable plumbing is essential. Schools should inspect pipes for leaks, test water pressure, and flush systems to prevent issues like bacteria growth. Tackling small plumbing problems early avoids costly water damage and health risks.
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Deep clean classrooms and communal areas
A thorough clean goes beyond picking up litter and removing chewing gum off the bottom of chairs. Before term starts, schools should schedule deep cleaning of classrooms, canteens, sports halls, and corridors. Carpets, upholstery, and high-touch surfaces need special attention to reduce the spread of germs and create a fresh, welcoming environment for students returning after a break.
Complete school facilities maintenance by Hollywell
Keeping your school facilities safe, efficient, and welcoming doesn’t have to be a headache. At Hollywell, we specialise in comprehensive educational facilities management, helping schools stay compliant, reduce costs, and create the best possible environment for students and staff.
Whether you need regular preventative maintenance, support with safety checks, or a partner to manage larger refurbishment projects, our expert team can tailor a solution to fit your school’s specific needs. We understand the challenges schools face—from budget pressures to strict compliance standards—and we’re here to make the process simple, reliable, and stress-free.
Ready to prepare your school for the new term?
Contact Hollywell today to discuss your maintenance requirements and find out how we can support your facilities strategy. Together, we’ll make sure your school is in top condition, term after term.