Keeping up with maintenance needs not only helps your commercial building stay in good shape and attract tenants, it reduces your costs by taking care of problems while they are small. Use these three tips to manage commercial property maintenance needs.
1. Use a Spreadsheet or Checklist
Checklists are an easy way to make sure that nothing is skipped when it comes to maintenance needs. This can be invaluable for those who own multiple properties. Take inventory of everything that you must maintain within your buildings, such as:
Exterior:
- Parking lots
- Snow shoveling
- Roofing
- Landscaping
- Window washing
Interior:
- HVAC
- Plumbing
- Lighting and electric
- Fire alarms/sprinkler systems
- Elevators
- Pest treatment
When you make your checklist, don’t forget about all areas of the property. There may be outbuildings, such as sheds, that need attention. Some commercial properties have trees that require occasional trimming. By being thorough in your inventory, you’ll ensure that every area of the property gets some inspection on an annual basis.
2. Stay on Track With the Seasons
Applying a seasonal approach to preventative maintenance breaks up the work throughout the year, so you aren’t overwhelmed with neglected tasks. For example, during winter focus on indoor tasks and keep up with snow shoveling and parking lot maintenance as needed. Come spring, spend time on landscaping, check the roof and gutters, do any upkeep after the long winter, and make sure the HVAC is ready for summer. Continue with exterior maintenance in summer months.
3. Hire Help
Hire professional help with specialized tasks. Whether you invest in a janitor to keep the interior clean, hire a landscaper so you don’t have to dig in the dirt, or contract with a plow service in the winter, hiring the right help reduces the amount of tasks on your list while ensuring that things get done in time. Plan in advance by identifying relevant service professionals several months before you need them, so you don’t have to wait for your appointment during peak season.
Get Gutter and Roofing Help
Brandstetter’s KangaRoof is here for your commercial roofing needs as well as gutter repair or replacement. Let us inspect gutters, clear clogs, replace aging or compromised gutters, or perform commercial roofing repair so your building is protected from the elements. To learn more, or to get a quote, contact us today.
