Facilities&MaintenanceServicesinDurban

Soft services (cleaning, security, gardening) run R45–R85/m²/month for office space. Hard services (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire) add R30–R70/m²/month depending on building age. Integrated FM (single contract for both) typically saves 10–15% versus separate vendors. Demand SLA terms — response time and uptime credits — in writing.

Yes — under the Private Security Industry Regulation Act, every guard must be PSIRA-registered (Grade A–E based on training). Verify each guard's PSIRA card on shift. The security company itself must be PSIRA-accredited (look up the company's certificate). Using unregistered guards exposes you to operator liability for criminal acts.

SANS 10400-T requires annual inspection of fire extinguishers, hose reels, hydrants, and sprinkler systems by a SAQCC Fire-registered service provider. Smoke detectors and emergency lighting need monthly visual + annual functional tests. Records must be kept for inspection by your local fire department; insurers will void cover for missing service tags.

Under the common law and most commercial leases: landlord covers structural (roof, walls, services to the boundary, water-ingress); tenant covers internal cosmetic and beneficial-use damage. Always check the lease's repair schedule — many landlords push HVAC and tenant-installation upkeep onto tenants. The Rental Housing Act protects residential tenants but not commercial.