School premises site inspection checklist

Use this checklist where premises condition or site hazards form part of the school's risk profile. Record any areas or hazards that are outside the scope of this inspection.

State the buildings, rooms, grounds, access routes, equipment or particular premises-related hazards included in this inspection.

Enter the date and time at which the inspection was carried out.

Record the name and role of each person who carried out or supported the inspection.

Record the person responsible for reviewing findings and coordinating any remedial action.

State whether this inspection is periodic or has been prompted by a reported issue, change, incident, planned work or another reason.

Review available previous inspection records, reported defects, maintenance information and relevant local arrangements for the areas within scope.

Inspect entrances, exits, corridors, stairs, ramps, paths and other circulation routes within scope. Record defects, obstructions, damage or conditions that may affect safe use.

Inspect floors, steps, paving and other surfaces within scope. Record deterioration, unevenness, wetness, loose materials or other conditions requiring attention.

Inspect doors, gates, windows and associated fittings within scope. Record damage, defective operation, unsecured access or other concerns.

Inspect lighting and visibility in the areas within scope. Record failed, damaged or obstructed lighting and areas where visibility appears inadequate for the intended use.

Where external areas are within scope, inspect grounds, play areas, paths, boundary features, drainage features and other relevant external premises. Record defects or hazards observed.

Inspect accessible building fabric and visible service installations within scope. Do not interfere with equipment or installations. Record damage, deterioration, leaks, exposed components or other concerns.

Inspect storage areas and housekeeping arrangements within scope. Record unstable storage, blocked access, unsuitable storage, waste or other conditions requiring attention.

Record each finding clearly, including its location, the condition observed, the potential consequence and any supporting evidence such as a photograph or related record.

For each finding, record its current status and identify any finding that requires further review.

For every finding requiring action, record the action needed, the person or team responsible, the intended completion date and any resources or permissions needed.

Where remedial work is not completed during the inspection, record any interim control or restriction put in place under the school's arrangements.

Pass findings requiring specialist advice, additional resources, a change to local arrangements or other escalation to the identified responsible person.

Review each recorded action and confirm whether it has been completed, remains in progress or is overdue.

For completed actions, record the completion date, person confirming completion and evidence reviewed. For incomplete actions, record the next review or escalation step.

List any findings that remain unresolved at the end of the inspection and state how they will be tracked.

Provide the completed record to the responsible person and retain it in the school's chosen record-keeping system in accordance with local arrangements.

Record any follow-up inspection, review or communication needed, including who will carry it out and when it should occur.