In facilities management, reactive maintenance has long played a role — waiting for something to break, then fixing it. But as the demands on property managers grow — from tighter budgets to more complex compliance requirements — relying solely on this approach is no longer enough.

Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) has become a cornerstone of effective building management, helping estates operate more efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively.

At Velway, we work with clients to strengthen their maintenance strategy by balancing reactive support with robust, proactive planning — tailored to the needs of each site.

 

Understanding Reactive Maintenance

Reactive maintenance is carried out in response to an issue — such as a failed boiler, lighting outage, or broken entry system. While necessary in certain situations, relying heavily on reactive repairs can lead to:

·      Unplanned downtime

·      Higher emergency costs

·      Reduced asset lifespan

·      Greater compliance risk

It can also place unnecessary pressure on internal teams and affect tenant satisfaction.

 

Why Planned Preventative Maintenance Matters

Planned Preventative Maintenance is a well-established approach in facilities management. It involves scheduled inspections, servicing, and routine tasks to ensure assets and systems remain compliant, efficient, and operational — reducing the likelihood of failures.

It also goes hand in hand with risk assessments. By aligning your PPM programme with site-specific risk assessments, you ensure that maintenance activities directly support the mitigation of identified hazards — from fire safety to legionella control and equipment failure. This creates a joined-up approach that strengthens legal compliance, improves audit readiness, and enhances occupant safety.

The benefits of PPM include:

Extending asset life
Enhancing compliance and safety
Minimising disruption and unplanned repairs
Enabling better budget control

At Velway, our PPM services are customised to meet each client’s specific operational and regulatory requirements — from single buildings to large, complex portfolios.

👉 Explore our Planned Maintenance Services

 

The Value of a Proactive Approach

Incorporating PPM into your maintenance model isn’t a trend — it’s a proven way to drive better outcomes across your estate.

Lower Long-Term Costs

By identifying and addressing issues early, PPM reduces the need for costly emergency callouts or major repairs.

 

Improved Compliance

Routine maintenance ensures statutory checks — like fire, gas, and electrical safety — are never missed.

Greater Efficiency

Well-maintained systems consume less energy and deliver better performance, supporting ESG and sustainability goals.

Happier Occupants

Fewer breakdowns and smoother operations mean better experiences for tenants, staff, and visitors.

 

Powered by Technology

Modern PPM is enhanced by data and technology. Velway’s bespoke CAFM system provides real-time updates, asset tracking, and automated scheduling — giving our clients full visibility and control over their maintenance programmes.

 

Why Partner with Velway?

Velway is a nationwide Facilities Management provider, based near Wakefield, West Yorkshire, with a support hub in Tamworth. We offer:

·      Planned, reactive and emergency maintenance

·      Full compliance support

·      Asset management

·      Bespoke FM solutions

Our integrated approach means clients benefit from a single point of contact for all services — reducing risk, controlling costs, and keeping buildings safe, compliant, and operational.

 

Learn more about our Facilities Management services