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Sector guides

Daycare Fit-Out Guide

A daycare must be safe, bright and easy to supervise. It must also meet licensing rules, which shape the layout.

Daycare Fit-Out Guide

Layout and supervision

Rooms for different age groups, clear sightlines, a secure entrance, storage for belongings and staff areas are all needed. Plan floor area per child according to licensing requirements.

Check requirements with the licensing authority before design starts.

Natural light, easy-to-clean surfaces and a calm layout help children and staff alike. Place noisy and quiet rooms apart.

Washrooms and plumbing

Child-sized fixtures, hand-wash sinks in play rooms, diaper-change stations and kitchen or food prep areas increase plumbing. Hot water must be safely limited.

Our plumbers install the fixtures and rough-in, and our mechanical crew provides good ventilation and comfortable temperatures.

Daycare Fit-Out GuidePHASE 1Site and leasePHASE 2Design and engineeringPHASE 3BuildPHASE 4OperateBUILD: TRADES ON THE PROJECTElectricalMechanical / HVACPlumbingLow voltage / securityInterior systemsCarpentry / millworkPainting / finishesDoors / hardwareSELF-PERFORMED BY HSM CREWS ON THIS TYPE OF WORK
How HSM delivers this work. Highlighted trades are self-performed by our own crews.

Safety and security

Exits, fire alarms, emergency lighting and sprinklers are central. Secure entry with access control and cameras protects children. Our low voltage team installs these systems.

Door hardware should be child-safe, with the correct hardware for exit and lockdown needs.

Cameras and secure entry also reassure parents. Decide early who may enter and how visitors are managed.

Finishes and noise

Soft, durable, cleanable surfaces suit play areas. Rounded corners, protected walls and acoustic ceilings help with noise. Our carpentry crew builds cubbies, counters and shelving that withstand heavy use.

Choose low-emission materials for air quality.

Think about how parents will drop off and pick up. A lobby that can handle the morning rush keeps hallways clear and children safe.

Outdoor space and timing

Fenced outdoor play areas need to be planned with the building and the landlord. Licensing and inspections take time, so plan opening dates with those steps in mind.

Kitchen and food service, if included, bring health inspection steps of their own.

Questions we hear

Does a daycare need special approvals?

Yes. Beyond building permits, licensing applies. Confirm requirements early with the relevant authority.

Can an office be converted to a daycare?

Often, with upgrades. It is a change of use, so check requirements early.

Start a project

Talk to us before you sign the lease.

One contract, our own electricians and mechanical crews, and a space that is ready on handover.