Office Closing Checklist

An end-of-day routine for tidying, securing and locking up the office every evening.

Published June 26, 2026

Tidy Common Areas

Clear reception and shared desks of cups, papers and clutter.
Wipe down kitchen counters and the breakroom table.
Empty or start the dishwasher and put away clean mugs and dishes.
Avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink overnight.
Switch off and empty the coffee machine and unplug small kitchen appliances.
Empty general waste and recycling bins if needed and replace liners.

Power Down Equipment

Shut down or log off shared computers and turn off monitors.
Power off printers, copiers, scanners and reception screens.
Switch off non-essential lights, leaving any required security lighting on.
Adjust heating or air conditioning to overnight or eco settings.
Leave servers, fridges and security systems running.
Turn off and unplug any space heaters, fans or chargers left on desks.

Secure Documents and Valuables

Lock confidential files and paperwork in cabinets or drawers.
Clear desks of sensitive documents and store laptops securely.
Shred any confidential paper no longer needed.
Lock away petty cash, keys and any valuable equipment.
Confirm safes and secure storage are properly closed and locked.

Check Windows and Internal Doors

Close and latch all windows, including those in meeting rooms and kitchens.
Confirm internal doors to secure areas such as the server room are closed and locked.
Check that fire doors are shut but never blocked or wedged open.
Make sure no taps, water dispensers or appliances are left running.
Do a final sweep for staff or visitors still in the building.

Lock Up and Set Alarm

Switch off remaining lights as you move toward the exit.
Lock all internal doors that should be secured overnight.
Confirm CCTV and access control systems remain active.
Do not power down security equipment.
Set the security alarm from the panel before the final exit.
Lock the main entrance and any secondary doors behind you.

Final Checks

Confirm the alarm has armed correctly and shows no fault lights.
Test that the entrance door is fully locked by pushing or pulling it.
Log any maintenance issues or incidents for the office manager.
Note items that need restocking or attention the next morning.
Sign and date the closing log to confirm the routine is complete.

0 / 30 done

An office closing checklist is an end-of-day routine that guides staff through tidying common areas, powering down equipment, securing confidential documents, locking every door and setting the alarm so the workplace is safe and ready overnight. It ensures the last person out never leaves anything unlocked or switched on.

Closing well protects your office from theft, fire and wasted energy. A consistent sequence means electronics are off, sensitive paperwork is stored away and the building is properly secured, night after night.

This checklist is built for office managers and staff who close the building, including those covering shifts who may be unfamiliar with the alarm or lock-up procedure. Every step is specific so handover is effortless.

Keep a printable copy near the exit or store the PDF on a shared drive, and revisit it whenever your security setup, hours or equipment change.

FAQ

Who should close the office at the end of the day?

Designate a trained closer and a backup. Both should know the lock-up sequence, alarm code and emergency contacts, and carry a printable copy of this checklist for consistency.

What is the most important step when closing the office?

Securing the building. Confirm every door and window is locked and the alarm is set last, after everyone has left and all other tasks are done.

Should I turn off all electronics when closing?

Power down non-essential equipment such as monitors, printers and the coffee machine to save energy and reduce fire risk. Leave servers, fridges and security systems running.

How do I handle confidential documents at closing?

Lock sensitive paperwork in cabinets or drawers, clear desks of private files and shred anything no longer needed. Never leave confidential documents out overnight.

Can I adapt this closing checklist for my workplace?

Yes. Download the printable PDF and add steps specific to your office, such as closing shutters, switching off signage, arming additional zones or securing a server room.