School maintenance isn't just about keeping the lights on and the halls clean; it's about creating a safe and conducive environment for students to learn and grow. However, failure to conduct routine maintenance on school buildings can result in varying degrees of deterioration over time. Eventually, unchecked property damage can increase the risk of accidents, incur significant expenses and leave a negative impression on prospective students and parents. This potentially leads to decreased attendance and additional financial burdens from extensive repairs and liability issues. To help you avoid these problems altogether, we created this school maintenance checklist so you can proactively maintain a safe and vibrant learning environment before larger issues manifest. 

Building washing

One of the most effective strategies to increase the longevity of painted surfaces on school buildings is through regular building washing. In fact, paint specifications usually detail washing as part of the warranty requirements for painted surfaces. Routine washing helps remove dirt, grime and pollutants that can cause deterioration of the paint over time. Moreover, by preventing the buildup of harmful substances, building washing can mitigate the risk of structural damage and reduce long-term repair costs. Therefore, integrating regular building washing into your school maintenance routine is a smart investment in both the aesthetic and structural integrity of your facilities.

• Schedule regular washing of exterior surfaces to remove dirt, grime and pollutants
• Use appropriate cleaning solutions and techniques that are safe for painted surfaces
• Inspect the building's exterior for any signs of damage or wear before and after washing
• Ensure washing is done as per the specifications required for paint warranties

Plumbing

It’s essential to maintain the plumbing systems within your school for the health and well-being of students and staff. Regular inspections are crucial to identify potential leaks or clogs before they escalate into larger problems. Even minor leaks can lead to water damage and mould growth, compromising the integrity of your school building and, at worst, posing health risks. So, it’s important to promptly repair leaks and conduct periodic drain cleaning to help ensure proper drainage, particularly in high-traffic areas like bathrooms and canteens. Additionally, conducting water quality testing on a routine basis ensures that your school’s water supply meets safety standards and is free from contaminants. This safeguards the health of everyone within the school environment.

• Schedule regular inspections of plumbing systems
• Repair leaks promptly
• Clean drains periodically to prevent blockages
• Test water quality regularly to ensure it meets safety standards

Electrical

The electrical systems are an essential component of your school maintenance checklist. They require regular upkeep to ensure safety and prevent potential hazards. Scheduled inspections of wiring, outlets and lighting fixtures help identify any signs of wear and tear. They also help identify outdated electrical systems that must be upgraded to meet current safety standards and reduce the risk of fire or electrical accidents.

Additionally, it's crucial to have a plan in place for power outages, with functional emergency lighting and backup systems to maintain safety during emergencies. This means it’s imperative to educate staff and students on electrical safety practices to further mitigate the risk of accidents and ensure everyone is prepared to respond appropriately in case of emergencies.

• Conduct regular inspections of electrical systems
• Upgrade outdated systems to meet current safety standards
• Have a plan in place for power outages
• Train staff and students on electrical safety practices

Security infrastructure

Security and safety are non-negotiable in schools. It’s important you implement the necessary measures to ensure your students and staff feel protected. This can include the strategic placement of surveillance systems to monitor key areas of your premises and regular testing of alarms. This ensures they are operational and can effectively alert authorities in case of emergencies. For added security, implement access control measures, such as keycard entry permissions or biometric scanners, to help regulate entry and prevent unauthorised access to sensitive areas such as laboratories.

• Ensure surveillance cameras are strategically placed
• Implement access control measures
• Test alarm systems regularly to ensure they are operational and responsive

Interior rooms

The interior rooms of a school serve as the primary learning environment for your students and must be well-maintained to promote a conducive atmosphere for education. Regular inspection of these spaces allows for the identification of any wear and tear, including chipped paint or damaged walls, which can be addressed through periodic painting and maintenance. It’s also critical to inspect and repair furniture and fixtures to ensure they are safe and functional for use by students and staff. And of course, you should implement stringent cleaning protocols to further enhance cleanliness and hygiene in classrooms and common areas, contributing to the overall well-being of the school community.

• Inspect interior rooms regularly for signs of wear and tear
• Conduct periodic painting and maintenance
• Inspect and repair furniture and fixtures to ensure they are sturdy and safe
• Implement cleaning protocols to maintain cleanliness and hygiene

Exterior surfaces

The last step on the school maintenance checklist is to maintain the exterior surfaces of your school. This is vital for preserving its structural integrity and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for students, staff and visitors. Regular inspections of the building envelope, including walls, roofs and windows, help identify and address any issues such as cracks or leaks that could compromise the structure's integrity. Plus, regular landscaping practices, such as trimming foliage and addressing drainage issues, help prevent water damage and maintain the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces. Ideally, you want to uphold a positive and respectful atmosphere to enhance the overall experience for everyone within the school community.

• Inspect exterior walls, roofs and windows for cracks, leaks or signs of damage
• Keep outdoor spaces well-maintained by trimming foliage and removing debris
• Ensure parking areas are properly paved, marked and well-lit
• Remove graffiti or vandalism from exterior surfaces promptly to maintain a clean appearance

By following this comprehensive school maintenance checklist, administrators can proactively address potential issues, promote safety and create an optimal learning environment for all stakeholders. 

Your paintwork is an investment that needs protecting to ensure the ongoing appearance of your building and reduce future expenses. Learn how to keep your paintwork looking fresh for longer with our handy guide to painting maintenance.

Higgins Coatings is Australia's premier commercial painting contractor with nearly 75 years of experience in providing cost-effective painting and tailored maintenance solutions to a broad range of industries including hospitals, aged care, schools, and strata. If you need quality painting services delivered on time and within budget, contact us today.