Operational phase
The operational phase of a building refers to the period of time during which the building is being used for its intended purpose. It begins after construction is completed and the building is occupied, and continues until the building is no longer in use or is repurposed for a different use.
During the operational phase, the building's systems and components, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, plumbing, and electrical systems, are operated to maintain a safe, comfortable, and functional environment for the occupants.
The operational phase also includes regular maintenance and repairs to ensure the building remains in good condition and continues to function properly. This may include tasks such as cleaning, replacing filters, fixing leaks, inspecting equipment and so on.
The operational phase is a critical period for ensuring the longevity and functionality of a building, and requires ongoing attention and care. It may involve a number of stakehoders:
- Building owners, responsible for ensuring that the building operates efficiently and effectively. This may involve hiring a property management company to oversee day-to-day operations, as well as ensuring that necessary repairs and maintenance are performed.
- Property managers, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the building, including coordinating maintenance and repairs, ensuring compliance with building standards and regulations, and addressing occupants concerns.
- Facility managers, responsible for maintaining the building's systems and equipment, such as HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and security systems, to ensure that they are functioning properly and efficiently.
- Maintenance staff, responsible for performing routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning, painting, and landscaping, as well as addressing any repairs or maintenance needs that arise.
- Tenants or occupants of the building play a role in the operational phase by reporting any maintenance or repair needs to the property manager or maintenance staff and following building operating procedures to ensure the safety and functionality of the building.
- Contractors and suppliers may be involved in the operational phase of a building by providing services such as repairs, maintenance, cleaning, and security. Building owners and property managers may hire these individuals or companies to perform necessary tasks to keep the building running smoothly.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Shading for housing, a design guide
A look back at embedding a new culture of shading.
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Comments
[edit] To make a comment about this article, or to suggest changes, click 'Add a comment' above. Separate your comments from any existing comments by inserting a horizontal line.