Site Decommissioning and Mothballing Commercial Buildings


Strategic Building Decommissioning for Safety, Compliance and Future Flexibility
Whether shut down completely, to reduce capacity, or to plan for redevelopment, building services cannot be simply left. From permanent site decommissioning to paused operations, professional decommissioning and mothballing for commercial buildings ensure safety and protection of your assets. Our solutions adhere to SFG30 processes to achieve health and safety and compliance standards. Voltix Services provides support across a range of systems with a view to safeguarding your equipment and premises and a smooth return to operations should this be required in the future.
Commercial Site Decommissioning and Mothballing Services
A Managed Approach to Site Decommissioning and Mothballing
The Voltix Services team provides insights to tailor cost-effective, professional and compliant decommissioning and mothballing according to your needs. The first step is a site visit to identify the assets and determine the scope of the project. We can then advise on the steps, timeframes and budget for the job. Our experienced team implements ongoing checks and maintenance services, with data insights from IoT sensors throughout the period of shutdown. The result is a precise approach to ongoing safety, security and compliance.
Benefits of Working with Voltix Services for Commercial Building Decommissioning and Mothballing
Our building decommissioning and mothballing services are done to meet SFG30 protocols and regulatory requirements – reducing the cost and risk of non-compliance.
We advise our clients on the most cost-effective processes for infrastructure decommissioning and mothballing. Our solutions also prevent potentially very expensive undetected issues like leaks.
Theft and vandalism come at a cost – and prevent re-opening premises. Protect your investment and inventory with top security systems.
From fire systems to legionella temperature testing, our maintenance processes reduce risk and enhance safety. Insurer approval ensures all processes meet their requirements.
Access all documents and certifications via our online client portal for total transparency, simplified record-keeping and easy reporting.
We provide a 24/7 emergency callout service, with a four-hour turnaround time. This ensures swift resolution when issues or emergencies arise.
We utilise IoT smart sensors to remotely monitor decommissioned and mothballed sites and key equipment. This empowers expedited reactions – and reduces the risk of undetected problems.
Our directly employed engineers have the experience and expertise to work with buildings and systems across a range of industries.
Compliance Focus: Site Decommissioning and Mothballing for Commercial Buildings
Maintain fire safety measures and conduct all required processes.
Ensure safe shutdown of all systems.
Manage refrigerants, chemicals and gases safely, responsibly and in line with regulations.
Safe removal, containment, or disposal of HVAC systems and refrigerants.
Responsible disposal of electrical equipment and building systems.
Apply where decommissioning forms part of larger construction or redevelopment work.
The Building Engineering Services Association’s (BESA) sister standards to SFG20, dealing with dormant buildings.
Work with Us for Safe, Compliant Decommissioning and Mothballing
Frequently Asked Questions
Your decommissioning and mothballing questions – answered.
What is site decommissioning in a commercial context?
Site decommissioning refers to the planned and managed process of taking a commercial property or facility out of active operation. This includes safely disconnecting utilities, removing hazardous materials, de-installing equipment and ensuring environmental and legal compliance.
What is mothballing a commercial building?
Mothballing is the process of preserving a building in a safe, secure and compliant condition for future reactivation or redevelopment. Unlike full decommissioning, mothballing retains the infrastructure while minimising operational costs and risks.
How is mothballing different from decommissioning?
Mothballing commercial buildings keeps the building viable for future reuse. This often involves:
- Securing the site from intrusion or vandalism
- Maintaining minimal services (e.g. alarms, HVAC if required)
- Regular inspections and maintenance
- Compliance with fire safety, insurance and environmental regulations
How long can a building be mothballed for?
A building can be mothballed indefinitely, but regular inspections and upkeep are crucial to maintaining compliance and preventing deterioration. Typically, buildings are mothballed for 6 months to 5 years, depending on future redevelopment or market plans. At Voltix Services, we guide you on the financial viability and practicality of every option.
What is SFG30 and how does it relate to mothballing commercial buildings?
SFG30 is a standard developed by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) that provides guidance on how to mothball and maintain low-occupancy buildings safely and efficiently. It is a supplement to SFG20, the industry standard for planned preventative maintenance (PPM).
SFG30 outlines:
- Best practices for reducing maintenance during periods of inactivity
- Essential tasks to preserve critical systems like HVAC, fire safety and electrical
- Inspection schedules to keep the building compliant and ready for reactivation
- Voltix Services uses SFG30 to ensure all mothballing works are aligned with recognised UK standards, helping clients protect their assets and reduce liability during building downtime.
Partner For Expert Building Decommissioning and Mothballing Commercial Buildings
Work with Voltix, the problem-solvers, for cost-effective, compliant, professional building decommissioning and mothballing. Contact us today to organise a site visit and we’ll assess your individual needs.