Frequently Asked Questions - MSU Physical Plant Division

Michigan State University Physical Plant Division

How do I request service?

To request routine maintenance services in academic buildings or to report problems, call 353-1760; For custodial services in these buildings, including light bulb replacement, see the Head Custodian, leave a note on custodial room door or bulletin board, or call 355-8485. Check our Guide to Services for more detail on types of requests and as well as the Business Procedures Manual.

When in doubt - call 353-1760.

How do I check on the status of a service request?

If you have a copy of the Work Order (green card) contact the Scheduler or call 3-1760. If the work is specific to Custodial Services, i.e. special cleaning, moving, and set up for special events, call Custodial Services at 355-8485. For more detail see Manual of Business Procedures.

I have a question regarding Physical Plant Job Charges...

Call 355-3375, and press 5 or send an inquiry to (customer@pplant.msu.edu).

How do I get my office painted or the windows washed?

For the most part, a department must forward a service request with an accompanying account number to pay for the effort.

During the budget cuts beginning in 1980-81, meetings were held with appointed faculty review committees to identify services that could be eliminated or reduced without causing long term damage to the facilities. As a result, interior painting and window washing budgets were eliminated. Today, special funds are occasionally allocated for interior painting of classrooms and public areas on a "worst case" basis. Central funding for window washing is not available.

May I go off campus to contract for services such as painting or alterations?

The Physical Plant Division will obtain off-campus services if requested by any department; however, there are many University policies, as well as codes and regulations, that must be adhered to, such as: work must be competitively bid; contractors must pay prevailing wages and have adequate insurance, etc. Please see Alterations & Improvements and Why Does Construction Cost So Much?

How do I find the hours of a particular building?

Academic building hours are posted at the building entrance or call Custodial Services 355-8485.

How do I request a change in the building hours for an academic building?

A permanent change in building hours must have the approval of the appropriate Dean or Major Administrative Unit Administrator and concurrence from Classroom Scheduling and the Physical Plant Division. For the policy and procedure see "Academic and Administrative Building Hours Policy."

What are the funded responsibilities of the Physical Plant? How do you prioritize service?

Please see Funded Responsiblities and Prioritizing Guidelines.

Who do I call if I have a problem such as ants or bees, or wish to report a trapped or injured animal?

Call Pest Management at 432-1585 which is part of the Department of Police and Public Safety.

Where to I report a broken parking gate?

Call the Parking Division of the Department of Police and Public Safety at 355-8440.