Building & Premises (Maintenance, Accessibility, Décor) Audit - Care Homes

Evidence to check

• • Current buildings and premises / maintenance policy is available and reviewed
• • Policy defines routine, urgent and emergency maintenance response times
• • Staff know how to report premises concerns during and outside office hours
• • Policy links premises safety with infection control, fire safety, safeguarding, dignity and business continuity

Evidence to check

• • Named facilities lead, maintenance lead, registered manager or responsible person is documented
• • Responsibilities include PPM, contractor management, audits, repairs and statutory checks
• • Deputy arrangements are in place
• • Responsible person can explain current premises risks and outstanding actions

Evidence to check

• • PPM schedule is current and covers internal and external areas
• • Schedule includes fixtures, fittings, windows, doors, flooring, bathrooms, lighting, lifts, water systems, ventilation and safety systems
• • Completed checks, service reports and certificates are retained
• • Overdue PPM tasks are escalated and risk assessed

Evidence to check

• • Environmental walkabout records are completed regularly
• • Audits cover resident areas, staff areas, external areas, storage, bathrooms and plant rooms
• • Actions include responsible person, priority and target date
• • Follow-up confirms repairs or improvements were completed

Evidence to check

• • Maintenance log or digital system is in place
• • Requests include date, location, issue, priority, action and completion date
• • Urgent issues are clearly prioritised
• • Out-of-hours escalation route is known to staff

Evidence to check

• • Contractor competence, insurance and checks are retained where required
• • RAMS and permits to work are used where needed
• • Contractors sign in, wear identification and are supervised where appropriate
• • Safeguarding, resident privacy, infection control and disruption risks are considered

Evidence to check

• • Risk register includes significant premises risks such as damp, lift failures, heating issues, access risks or major repairs
• • Risks have controls, owners and review dates
• • Governance minutes show premises risks are discussed
• • High-risk or repeated issues are escalated to provider or senior leadership

Evidence to check

• • Falls, burns, scalds, infections, entrapment or injury investigations consider premises factors
• • Environmental checks are completed after relevant incidents
• • Findings lead to repairs, adaptations or changes in practice
• • Learning is shared with staff

Evidence to check

• • Walkaround shows no cracked tiles, peeling paint, broken fittings, sharp edges or damaged surfaces
• • Damage is logged and repaired promptly
• • Resident areas are safe, clean and well cared for
• • Temporary repairs do not become long-term poor standards

Evidence to check

• • Communal and private spaces feel warm, comfortable and non-institutional
• • Décor supports dignity and does not appear neglected or clinical without need
• • Residents' preferences and feedback influence décor choices
• • Décor is suitable for people living with dementia, sensory needs or visual impairment

Evidence to check

• • Floors are free from lifting edges, torn vinyl, loose mats, uneven thresholds and trip hazards
• • Flooring supports wheelchair, walking frame and hoist movement
• • Floor finishes are not overly shiny or confusing for residents with dementia
• • Floor defects are logged and repaired promptly

Evidence to check

• • No visible damp, mould, water staining or damaged plaster is present
• • Leaks or stains are investigated rather than painted over without repair
• • Repairs include root-cause resolution
• • Affected residents are protected from health or dignity risks

Evidence to check

• • Windows and doors open, close and lock safely where appropriate
• • Frames are free from rot, damage or sharp edges
• • Restrictors are fitted where risk assessed and maintained
• • Emergency access arrangements are in place where doors are locked

Evidence to check

• • Lighting levels support safe mobility and orientation
• • Failed bulbs are replaced promptly
• • Glare, shadows and dark areas are considered for residents with visual impairment or dementia
• • Night lighting supports safety without unnecessary sleep disturbance

Evidence to check

• • Chairs, tables, beds and soft furnishings are stable and in good repair
• • Seating height and arms support safe transfers
• • Fabric, vinyl and covers are clean and intact
• • Damaged or unsuitable furniture is repaired or replaced

Evidence to check

• • Call bells and pull cords are within reach and not tied up or obstructed
• • Testing confirms they work
• • Residents who cannot use standard call bells have alternatives
• • Faults are logged, escalated and repaired promptly

Evidence to check

• • Residents have personal items, photos, décor or meaningful possessions where they choose
• • Bedroom layout supports safety, privacy and personal preference
• • Personalisation does not create unmanaged hazards
• • Residents and families are involved in bedroom choices where appropriate

Evidence to check

• • Odours are investigated for continence, cleaning, ventilation, infection, waste or laundry causes
• • Air fresheners are not used to hide unresolved hygiene issues
• • Care and cleaning plans respond to recurring odours
• • Residents' dignity is protected when odours relate to continence or health needs

Evidence to check

• • Door widths, turning spaces and routes support mobility aids
• • Hoists can be used safely where required
• • Routes are clutter-free and wide enough for safe movement
• • Accessibility barriers are logged and addressed

Evidence to check

• • Corridors are free from equipment, trolleys, furniture and stored items
• • Mobility aids and wheelchairs can pass safely
• • Fire escape routes are not obstructed
• • Staff do not use corridors as storage areas

Evidence to check

• • Ramps, threshold strips or contrast markings are used where appropriate
• • Changes in level are risk assessed
• • Residents with visual impairment, dementia or mobility needs are considered
• • Any unsafe transition points are repaired or adapted

Evidence to check

• • Handrails are secure, continuous where possible and easy to grip
• • Handrails are positioned at suitable height
• • Colour contrast supports visibility where needed
• • Loose or damaged rails are repaired promptly

Evidence to check

• • Grab rails, raised toilet seats and support aids are available where needed
• • Bathrooms have adequate space for staff support and equipment
• • Flooring is non-slip and in good condition
• • Privacy, dignity and emergency call access are maintained

Evidence to check

• • Shower chairs, bath lifts, hoist access and non-slip surfaces are available where needed
• • Bathing equipment is maintained and clean
• • Temperature controls and TMVs are working where required
• • Residents can bathe safely and with dignity

Evidence to check

• • Lift service and inspection records are current
• • Breakdowns are logged and reviewed
• • Emergency communication systems in lifts are working
• • Contingency plans protect residents who cannot use stairs

Evidence to check

• • Signs are clear, consistent, well lit and placed at useful height
• • Symbols, words or pictures support understanding
• • Toilets, dining areas and bedrooms are easy to identify
• • Residents with dementia or visual impairment can orientate more easily

Evidence to check

• • Doors, toilet seats, handrails, edges and key areas have useful contrast where needed
• • Flooring patterns do not create confusion or perceived hazards
• • Contrast supports residents with dementia or visual impairment
• • Changes to décor consider accessibility impact

Evidence to check

• • Residents can access quiet areas away from noise and activity
• • Spaces are comfortable, safe and welcoming
• • Residents with dementia, autism, anxiety or sensory overload are considered
• • Quiet spaces are not used as storage or unavailable in practice

Evidence to check

• • Lighting, glare, acoustics and communication supports are considered
• • Hearing loops or amplification support are available where appropriate
• • Visual cues, tactile cues or accessible formats are used where needed
• • Resident sensory needs are reflected in care plans and the environment

Evidence to check

• • Paths are even, clear and suitable for mobility aids
• • Ramps, seating, handrails and shade are available where needed
• • Gates, boundaries and exits are secure where risk assessed
• • Residents are supported to use outdoor spaces safely

Evidence to check

• • Walkaround checks for cables, clutter, uneven flooring, loose mats and spills
• • Hazards are removed immediately where possible
• • Repeated slip or trip hazards are investigated
• • Falls audits consider environmental causes

Evidence to check

• • Spills are cleaned promptly
• • Wet floor signs are used appropriately and removed when no longer needed
• • Cleaning methods do not leave floors unsafe for long periods
• • Floor surfaces are suitable for the area and resident use

Evidence to check

• • Stairs have secure handrails, adequate lighting and clear nosings
• • Stairways are free from clutter
• • Residents at risk are protected through care plans and environmental controls
• • Any damage or poor lighting is repaired promptly

Evidence to check

• • Furniture allows clear movement routes
• • Seating is stable and at suitable height
• • Layouts support social interaction, privacy and safe transfers
• • Furniture does not block call bells, exits or mobility aids

Evidence to check

• • Storage rooms are tidy and clearly arranged
• • Linen, equipment, cleaning trolleys and mobility aids are stored safely
• • Corridors and communal spaces are not used for overflow storage
• • Storage shortages are escalated and managed

Evidence to check

• • Radiators, exposed pipework and hot surfaces are guarded or insulated where required
• • Portable heaters are controlled or prohibited according to policy
• • Burn risks are considered for residents with dementia, reduced sensation or mobility issues
• • Hot surface defects or missing guards are repaired promptly

Evidence to check

• • Window restrictor checks are completed and recorded
• • Restrictors are fitted where falls or safety risk requires them
• • Restrictors are not removed or bypassed without authorisation
• • Resident rights, ventilation and safety are balanced

Evidence to check

• • Boundary checks confirm fencing, gates and barriers are secure
• • Wandering and falls risks are assessed
• • Controls are proportionate and least restrictive
• • Outdoor access is supported safely rather than unnecessarily restricted

Evidence to check

• • Bathrooms are free from leaks, damaged seals, mould, odours and broken fixtures
• • Extractor fans or ventilation are working
• • Grout, flooring and surfaces are clean and intact
• • Cleaning and maintenance issues are reported and followed up

Evidence to check

• • TMV register and servicing records are current
• • TMVs are fitted where required by risk assessment
• • Temperature checks confirm safe operation
• • Faults are repaired promptly

Evidence to check

• • Hot water temperature records are completed at required outlets
• • Out-of-range readings are escalated
• • Resident scald risk assessments are in place where needed
• • Actions are taken promptly when water is too hot or too cold

Evidence to check

• • Fixtures are secure and free from leaks or sharp edges
• • Taps, flushes and shower controls are easy to use where appropriate
• • Adaptive fittings are considered for residents with reduced strength or dexterity
• • Faults are logged and repaired

Evidence to check

• • Grab rails, bath lifts, shower seats, raised seats and other adaptations are present where needed
• • Adaptations are securely fitted and clean
• • Positioning matches resident need and OT or professional advice where applicable
• • Adaptations are reviewed when needs change

Evidence to check

• • Surfaces are intact, wipeable and free from cracks, peeling laminate or damaged vinyl
• • Damaged surfaces in clinical, bathroom, kitchen and resident areas are repaired
• • IPC risks from damaged surfaces are considered
• • Temporary repairs are monitored and replaced with permanent solutions

Evidence to check

• • Extractor fans, windows and ventilation systems are working
• • Ventilation checks or maintenance records are available where required
• • Poor ventilation, condensation or odours are investigated
• • Isolation or infection risk areas have appropriate ventilation arrangements

Evidence to check

• • Any damp or mould is recorded and risk assessed
• • Root cause is investigated, such as leaks, ventilation or building defects
• • Residents affected are protected and informed where appropriate
• • Remedial works are completed and monitored for recurrence

Evidence to check

• • Handwashing facilities have hot and cold running water, soap and paper towels where required
• • Dispensers are stocked and working
• • Hand hygiene signage is available where appropriate
• • Faults or stock shortages are corrected promptly

Evidence to check

• • Clinical, general and recyclable waste are segregated correctly
• • Waste stores are secure, clean and pest-resistant
• • Routes do not create contamination or trip risks
• • Waste collection issues are logged and escalated

Evidence to check

• • Cleaning chemicals are stored securely and separately from food or resident belongings
• • COSHH information is available
• • Cupboards are ventilated where required
• • Access is restricted to authorised staff

Evidence to check

• • Laundry layout supports separation of clean and soiled items
• • Surfaces are clean, intact and suitable for cleaning
• • Ventilation is adequate
• • Laundry equipment faults or hygiene concerns are addressed

Evidence to check

• • Wheelchairs, hoists, walking frames and specialist equipment have suitable storage
• • Equipment is not routinely stored in corridors or fire routes
• • Storage supports quick access when equipment is needed
• • Lack of storage is escalated as a premises risk

Evidence to check

• • Sluice areas are clean, ventilated and in good repair
• • Macerators, bedpan washers or disposal systems are maintained where used
• • Clinical waste handling is safe and compliant
• • Dirty utility areas are not used for inappropriate storage

Evidence to check

• • Medication storage areas are locked and access controlled
• • Lighting, cleanliness and temperature monitoring are suitable
• • Trolleys and cupboards are in good repair
• • Maintenance issues affecting medicine safety are escalated

Evidence to check

• • Break rooms, offices, changing areas and toilets are clean and functional
• • Staff have access to rest, hydration and secure storage where possible
• • Staff areas are not neglected compared with resident areas
• • Staff feedback on facilities is reviewed

Evidence to check

• • Plant rooms and workshops are locked or access controlled
• • Tools, ladders, chemicals and materials are stored safely
• • Areas are tidy, well lit and free from unnecessary combustibles
• • Residents and visitors cannot access hazardous areas

Evidence to check

• • Residents have access to communal spaces that support socialising and quieter choices
• • Spaces are clean, comfortable and accessible
• • Layout supports activities, visitors and privacy
• • Resident feedback influences use and improvement of communal areas

Evidence to check

• • Keypads, fobs, locks, intercoms and door entry systems are working
• • Entry controls balance security, safeguarding, fire safety and resident rights
• • Faults are logged and repaired promptly
• • Staff know how to manage visitors and unauthorised access

Evidence to check

• • Reception or entrance area supports safe visitor management
• • Sign-in process is visible and accessible
• • Safeguarding, infection control and fire safety information is available where needed
• • Visitors can find directions without wandering into private areas unnecessarily

Evidence to check

• • Wandering risks are assessed individually
• • Secure gardens, discreet exit controls and observation are considered where appropriate
• • Controls do not unnecessarily restrict residents with capacity
• • DoLS and MCA implications are considered where restrictions apply

Evidence to check

• • CCTV policy, privacy impact assessment and signage are in place where applicable
• • Use is lawful, proportionate and transparent
• • Footage retention and access controls are clear
• • CCTV is not used in private areas without exceptional lawful justification

Evidence to check

• • Residents can have privacy where safe and appropriate
• • Locks allow emergency access by staff
• • Door arrangements are risk assessed for residents with cognitive impairment or falls risk
• • Privacy and safety are balanced respectfully

Evidence to check

• • Fire doors close fully and are not wedged open
• • Door seals, hinges and closers are intact
• • Fire door checks are recorded
• • Defects are escalated promptly

Evidence to check

• • Escape routes are unobstructed
• • Fire exit signs are visible and current
• • Emergency lighting is functioning
• • Staff do not store equipment or supplies in escape routes

Evidence to check

• • Emergency lighting checks are recorded
• • Fire signs are visible, undamaged and accurate
• • Defects are repaired promptly
• • Checks align with fire risk assessment requirements

Evidence to check

• • Walkaround checks sockets, switches and visible electrical points
• • No scorch marks, loose fittings, buzzing or overheating signs are present
• • Damaged sockets are isolated and repaired promptly
• • Electrical concerns are linked to PAT and fixed-wire safety processes

Evidence to check

• • Oxygen storage is clearly signed and ventilated
• • Cylinders are stored upright and secured where required
• • Ignition sources are controlled
• • Staff understand oxygen fire safety risks

Evidence to check

• • Maintenance logs show priority grading and response times
• • Urgent repairs are escalated promptly
• • Temporary safety measures are in place while awaiting repair
• • Resident impact is considered and recorded

Evidence to check

• • Repair plans consider noise, dust, access restrictions, privacy and infection control
• • Residents are informed where works affect them
• • Alternative rooms, routes or facilities are arranged where needed
• • Contractors work respectfully around residents

Evidence to check

• • Communication with residents and families is recorded for major works
• • Resident meetings or feedback routes include premises concerns
• • Concerns are acknowledged and followed up
• • Residents with communication needs receive accessible information

Evidence to check

• • Care reviews identify need for rails, seating, lighting, room changes or adaptations
• • OT or professional recommendations are acted on
• • Adjustments are completed within reasonable timescales
• • Effectiveness is reviewed with the resident

Evidence to check

• • Complaints and concerns log includes premises-related issues
• • Investigations identify root causes and actions
• • Complainants are informed of outcomes where appropriate
• • Themes are reviewed through governance

Evidence to check

• • PPM schedule is available immediately
• • Completed checks, service reports and certificates are retained
• • Sampled PPM tasks match actual completion evidence
• • Overdue tasks have a risk assessment and completion plan

Evidence to check

• • Maintenance log is current and organised
• • Entries include issue, location, priority, action, completion date and person responsible
• • Completed works are verified for quality and safety
• • Repeated issues are identified from the log

Evidence to check

• • Recent walkabout records are available
• • Actions show improvements such as décor refresh, accessibility changes, repairs or safety controls
• • Residents and staff feedback is considered
• • Completed improvements are visible during walkaround

Evidence to check

• • Recurring issues such as damp, leaks, lift failures, heating problems or blocked drains are analysed
• • Improvement plan includes root cause, owner, timescale and funding or escalation route
• • Temporary fixes are not accepted as long-term solutions
• • Senior leaders monitor progress until resolved

Evidence to check

• • Audit includes walkaround, resident feedback, staff feedback and record review
• • Audit considers dignity, independence, sensory comfort and ease of movement
• • Findings are compared with falls, complaints, infection control and maintenance data
• • Actions lead to practical improvements in residents' daily environment

Evidence to check

• • Governance reviews join premises risks with incident, falls, IPC, fire and safeguarding themes
• • Premises actions are reflected in the Quality Improvement Plan where needed
• • Managers can evidence how environmental improvements reduce risk and improve quality of life
• • Learning from audits, incidents and feedback is embedded into premises planning