Elevator Etiquette in Commercial Offices
Elevator Etiquette: A Facility Management Guide for Sydney & Melbourne Buildings
Elevators are among the most heavily used — and most complained-about — assets in any building.
Across Sydney and Melbourne, from CBD office towers and residential high-rises to mixed-use developments and car parks, elevators quietly move thousands of occupants every day. Most trips are uneventful. Some, however, leave a lasting impression — usually not a good one.
From a facility management perspective, elevators are more than just mechanical systems. They are shared spaces where behaviour, comfort, safety, and perception of building quality all come together… inside a metal box roughly the size of a generous bathroom.
So, in the spirit of better buildings (and fewer complaints), here’s a light-hearted but practical guide to elevator etiquette — straight from the world of professional facility management in Sydney and Melbourne.
Why Elevator Etiquette Matters in Facility Management
In large commercial and residential buildings, elevators are one of the most visible indicators of how well a property is managed.
Poor etiquette leads to:
- Delays and congestion
- Increased stress and frustration
- Complaints to strata and property managers
- A lower perception of building quality
Good etiquette, supported by clear facility management standards, keeps traffic flowing smoothly and improves the daily experience for tenants, residents, and visitors.
It’s also important to remember that for some people — including those with claustrophobia, anxiety, or mobility challenges — elevator use can be genuinely stressful. Courtesy isn’t just polite; it’s part of responsible building management.
Elevator Etiquette: A Practical Guide for Sydney & Melbourne Buildings
1. Let Passengers Exit First
When the doors open, step aside and allow passengers to disembark before boarding. This simple habit improves flow and prevents the awkward human bottleneck every facility manager knows too well.
2. Holding the Door — Use Good Judgement
Holding the lift can be courteous — briefly.
- Hold it for someone clearly approaching.
- Don’t hold it for someone who’s wandered off.
- If you’ve been holding the door long enough to feel judged by strangers, it’s time to let it close.
3. Standing at the Front? You’re the Temporary Doorman
In a crowded lift, those near the doors should expect to step out briefly at intermediate floors to let others pass. Think of it as short-term community service.
4. If It’s Full, It’s Full
If the elevator looks full, it probably is. Squeezing in won’t improve efficiency — or friendships. Wait for the next lift. It will arrive faster than the awkward silence you’re about to create.
5. Please Don’t Yell “HOLD THE LIFT!”
If the doors are closing and you’re still down the hallway, accept the loss and wait. Yelling rarely helps and never improves elevator morale.
6. Button Etiquette
If you’re near the control panel, offer to press buttons for others.
Just don’t take over completely — and don’t ask someone else unless you genuinely can’t reach the buttons yourself.
7. Move In, Move Back
Step fully inside and move toward the rear of the elevator to allow others to board comfortably.
If you’re travelling further, standing away from the doors avoids repeated reshuffling at every stop.
A simple “Excuse me” as your floor approaches is all that’s needed.
8. Keep Conversations Elevator-Appropriate
A polite greeting is encouraged.
An elevator is not:
- A boardroom
- A phone booth
- A suitable venue for confidential or colourful conversations
Facility managers everywhere thank you.
9. Face Forward
Once inside, turn to face the front of the elevator. Prolonged eye contact with strangers in close quarters is uncomfortable — for everyone involved.
10. Phones Down
End calls before entering or place your phone on mute. No one wants to hear half a conversation. If you wouldn’t take the call in a bathroom, don’t take it in the lift.
11. Odours Travel
Elevators amplify smells — food, coffee, perfume, and other… emissions. Being mindful helps everyone enjoy the ride.
12. Elevators Are Not Bathrooms
Please don’t groom, floss, or conduct mirror inspections. This is a shared space, not a personal preparation room.
13. Headphones Are Fine — Loud Music Isn’t
Enjoy your music privately. If others can hear it, the volume is too high.
14. Hats and Sunglasses
Removing hats and sunglasses in a confined space is courteous and helps fellow passengers feel more comfortable.
15. Queue Fairly
Those who have waited longest should board first.
Elderly passengers, people with disabilities, and anyone needing assistance should always be given priority.
Facility Management in Sydney & Melbourne: The Bigger Picture
Professional facility management in Sydney and Melbourne goes beyond maintenance schedules and compliance checks. It’s about creating environments that function efficiently and feel comfortable to use.
Well-maintained elevators are essential — but clear signage, consistent communication, and considerate behaviour from occupants make a measurable difference to daily building operations.
Good etiquette costs nothing and reduces complaints, congestion, and wear on assets — all things that matter to property owners, strata committees, and tenants alike.
Looking for Professional Facility Management in Sydney or Melbourne?
Whether you manage a commercial building, residential apartment complex, or mixed-use development, experienced facility management ensures your building operates smoothly — from the plant room to the elevator lobby.
Because well-managed buildings don’t just work — they feel better to be in.