In the world of commercial & retail property maintenance, there's one key decision that can make or break your budget, productivity, and peace of mind: Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM) vs Reactive Maintenance.
At ProActive Commercial Maintenance, we help businesses across the UK make smarter decisions when it comes to maintaining their facilities. In this post, we’ll explore what PPM and reactive maintenance involve, and why a PPM strategy is the better investment in the long run.
What Is Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM)?
Planned Preventive Maintenance (also known as scheduled or routine maintenance) is a proactive strategy that involves regularly scheduled inspections, servicing, and repairs of building systems and equipment—before a fault occurs.
Examples of PPM include:
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Regular HVAC servicing
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Annual electrical compliance checks
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Routine plumbing inspections
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Fire safety system testing
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Scheduled gutter clearing and roof inspections
PPM is tailored to the specific needs of each building, and it ensures assets perform efficiently and safely throughout their lifecycle.
What Is Reactive Maintenance?
Reactive maintenance (also known as breakdown or corrective maintenance) is the opposite approach. It’s performed only after something goes wrong—a leaking pipe, a broken air conditioning unit, or an unexpected electrical fault.
While it may seem cheaper upfront, reactive maintenance can lead to higher costs, business disruption, and compliance risks over time.
PPM vs Reactive Maintenance: Key Differences
| Feature | PPM | Reactive Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Proactive | Reactive |
| Cost predictability | High – budgeted and scheduled | Low – unexpected and urgent |
| Downtime risk | Minimal | High – often leads to operational delays |
| Compliance | Easier to stay compliant with regulations | Risk of breaching legal obligations |
| Asset lifespan | Extended through regular care | Shortened due to neglect and stress |
| Health & safety | Proactively managed | Reactively addressed, often after an incident |
The Benefits of a PPM Strategy for UK Businesses
Adopting a PPM strategy offers significant advantages:
1. Reduced Emergency Repair Costs
Unplanned breakdowns can be expensive—not only due to urgent call-out fees but also potential damage and business interruption. PPM helps you avoid surprises.
2. Improved Compliance and Risk Management
UK regulations (such as fire safety, gas safety, and electrical compliance) require regular inspections and maintenance. With PPM, you’re always audit-ready.
3. Extended Asset Life
Regular servicing ensures equipment like HVAC, boilers, lifts, and lighting systems perform better for longer—delaying costly replacements.
4. Minimal Disruption
Scheduled maintenance can be carried out during off-peak hours, avoiding unexpected disruptions to your staff and customers.
5. Budget Control
PPM allows you to plan maintenance costs annually. There’s less financial uncertainty compared to dealing with ad hoc emergencies.
Why Choose ProActive Commercial Maintenance?
At ProActive Commercial Maintenance, we specialise in delivering custom PPM plans for commercial properties of all sizes across the UK. From retail outlets and offices to healthcare, education, and industrial sectors—we help our clients:
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Avoid costly breakdowns
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Stay compliant with UK legislation
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Keep their facilities safe and operational year-round
Our team of engineers and maintenance experts work around your schedule, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum value.
Get Started with PPM Today
Investing in a Planned Preventive Maintenance strategy isn’t just good for your building—it’s smart business.
👉 Talk to ProActive Commercial Maintenance today to find out how a tailored PPM solution can protect your assets, your people, and your bottom line.
📞 Call us on 0208 493 7980
📧 Email us at helpdesk@proactivecm.co.uk