Get Your Office Ready for Summer: The Ultimate Checklist

Summer is almost here! It’s the season of beach trips, BBQs, and, let’s face it, counting down the days until you can slap on that Out of Office reply and enjoy some well-earned relaxation.

But before you head off into holiday bliss, take a moment to consider your workspace. Whether your office is shutting down completely or operating with skeleton staff, there are a few things you can do now to prepare for a smooth and stress-free summer.

Here’s your ultimate summer office prep checklist, complete with tips to keep your workplace sparkling and stress-free while you’re away.

Step 1: Declutter and Organise

“My basic principle for sorting papers is to throw them all away.” – Marie Kondo

Ok, maybe you don’t need to channel your inner Marie Kondo that much, but a good declutter session is an absolute must.

• Clear the clutter: Get rid of old files, organise your paperwork, and tackle that “to be filed” pile that’s been growing since January.
• Tidy your desk: Action, file, or toss any stray papers, and wipe down your desk.
• Clean your tech: Flip your keyboard upside down, give it a gentle tap, and marvel (in horror) at what falls out. Follow it up with a good wipe-down of your screen, mouse, and keyboard.

Pro Tip: Schedule a deep office clean with your professional cleaning service to ensure everything is fresh and dust-free when you return.

Step 2: Prepare Your Skeleton Staff

Holiday leave requests can make December feel like a Sudoku puzzle. Here’s how to manage it like a pro:

• Finalise staffing plans: Decide who will stay on to manage phones, client requests, or emergencies.
• Set expectations: Whether they’ll be working from home or clocking shorter hours, make sure everyone knows their responsibilities.

Step 3: Schedule Maintenance and Repairs

The holidays are the perfect time to tackle those pesky maintenance tasks:

• Get repairs sorted: Replace carpets, repaint walls, or fix those flickering lights.
• Coordinate with your cleaners: Your cleaning service often has access to your office, so they can let tradespeople in without interrupting your holiday bliss.

Step 4: Check the Air Conditioning

No one wants to return to a stifling hot office.

• Call a maintenance company to check your aircon system.
• Clean or replace filters to keep the air fresh and cool for when everyone returns.

Step 5: Cancel Deliveries

Avoid a doorstep disaster by pausing regular deliveries:

• Notify milk, food, or stationery suppliers of your closure dates.
• Don’t forget to re-schedule deliveries to resume after the break.

Step 6: Power Down and Clean Out

Nothing kills holiday vibes faster than returning to a mess—or a spike in the power bill.

• Turn off electronics: Power down computers, printers, and other equipment to save money and avoid overheating.
• Clean the fridge: Empty it completely to avoid a post-holiday horror show of rotting lunches. Don’t forget the pantry!
• Take out the bins: Ensure your cleaning team empties all bins before the holidays, especially kitchen ones.

Step 7: Update Phone Messages and Emails

Make sure everyone knows you’re on a well-earned break:

• Change your voicemail to notify callers of holiday hours or closures.
• Set up an Out of Office email with an alternative contact for emergencies.

Step 8: Prepare for the Cleaning Company

If you’ve scheduled a deep clean over the holidays, make their job easier by:

• Clearing desks so they can wipe surfaces properly.
• Organising files and belongings to avoid disruptions.

Pro Tip: Cleaning companies generally don’t move your stuff, so tidy up to ensure a thorough clean!

Step 9: Close Curtains and Blinds

Protect your office from sun damage and keep it cool by closing blinds or curtains where necessary.

Step 10: Call Your Clients

Before you shut down, take a moment to reach out to key clients:

• Thank them for their business.
• Check in on any last-minute needs.
• Schedule a coffee or lunch for the New Year to start things off strong.