Preventative Maintenance: What it is and How it Can Help Hotels

One of the most important tasks of the hotel maintenance department is to protect assets–building, equipment, and supplies–through preventive measures. These measures should be formulated as a set of guidelines for all staff to follow.

Rather than waiting for incidents to occur to respond to potential safety hazards, hotels and other organizations in the hospitality industry can enact preventative maintenance measures in order to reduce the risk of accidents happening in the first place. A comprehensive Hospitality Insurance program can protect against financial losses from lawsuits and claims, but these preventative safety measures can reduce the risk of lawsuits and claims.

Guest Safety

Ensure sprinkler systems are working properly and that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have functioning batteries. Maintenance staff should regularly inspect locks on the main entrance, bedrooms, conference rooms, storage closets and other areas that are vital for the hotel operation. Regular alarm and fire extinguisher checks are also smart safety measures.

Electrical

A power outage will cause disgruntled guests, and most likely financial loss to find them accommodations. By periodically checking electrical panels, plugs, outlets and circuit breakers, you can prevent large electrical issues. Have a backup power supply in case the power outage impacts your establishment.

Lighting

Missing or flickering lights doesn’t give an impression of efficacy or promote guest comfort. Keep the lights dim in the early hours of the day and increase the intensity as it’s getting dark. Install automatic timers or motion sensor switches in locations that see little traffic. These care and maintenance of equipment methods save money on electricity and keep guests satisfied.

Plumbing

Water supply and drainage issues can cause a lot of damage, disrupting operation. Implement regular plumbing lines inspections for any sign of rust, leaks, cracked pipes, toilet malfunctions, water pressure, as well as water damage to the floors and ceilings. This can also include preventive measures for mold and mildew.

HVAC 

Routine checks and maintenance of heating and cooling systems ensure the guests’ comfort all year round. Inefficient filters, blocked heat ducts, and HVAC leaks can set your budget back by unexpended and expensive repairs. Make sure your maintenance crew inspects all possible issues (deficient temperature, reduced airflow, or unfamiliar noises and smells).

Floors

Tough, durable and solid flooring that can withstand a lot of traffic is crucial. Polished concrete floors fill all these requirements, however, unless cured properly, they will lose their beautiful luster over the years. Reduce their maintenance by using durable concrete sealers, which protect the concrete floors from dirt discoloration and erosion.

Furniture

Hotel furniture must always look presentable as it is part of the lobby, meeting spaces, dining facilities and, guests’ bedrooms décor. Attend to loose pieces, worn-out upholstery, discoloration, scratches, dents or even misplaced pieces as soon as possible.

Exterior

Even though most hotel bookings are made online, hotels will remain a walk-in business. The exterior of the facility is what the potential guest sees first, so curb appeal should be a priority. This includes the state of the building itself, landscaping and parking.

Supplies & Equipment

Hotels rely on a vast range of supplies and equipment that ensure smooth operation. From vacuum cleaners and cleaning supplies to the vehicles and computers used by the hotel staff, ensure all these are readily available and functioning.

Guest comfort largely depends on the well-trained maintenance crew who must focus on the care and maintenance of equipment to prevent disruptive events.  

About Daniels Insurance, Inc.

At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we have a unique understanding of the risks that people like you face on a regular basis. With the backing of our comprehensive coverages and our dedication to customer service and quick claims resolution, your business will be fully protected. For more information, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.