As commercial property vacancy rates continue on their upward trajectory, the pressure to retain tenants is at a fever pitch for Blue Springs landlords. If you're looking for ideas to keep your tenants in place or attract new ones, the answer lies in ensuring your property stands out from the competition.
Ongoing maintenance and repairs are the best way to ensure your tenants' satisfaction while retaining your property's value and appeal.
Read on for our best commercial property maintenance tips.
Understanding the Types of Maintenance and Repairs
Property maintenance best practices always start with planning, but you can't do that until you're aware of what you must plan for. These are the various types of maintenance involved in your property's upkeep:
Preventive Maintenance
This type of maintenance usually occurs seasonally, annually, or monthly. It's aimed at preventing unnecessary breakages leading to major repairs or replacements.
Some types of preventive maintenance include:
- Roof inspections
- Servicing HVAC systems
- Checking safety equipment, like fire alarms
Routine Maintenance
Routine property upkeep involves general tasks that you must carry out frequently. Many of these tasks form part of the OHSA requirements for good housekeeping.
Cleaning floors and trash removal are examples of routine maintenance tasks. Your tenant is usually responsible for this type of maintenance, but it's important to check up on this aspect during property inspections.
Replacements and Repairs
You can't plan for repairs and replacements, but you can create a budget for them. Every commercial building will eventually need its windows, roof, and plumbing fixtures replaced.
Set aside money from your rental income every month to provide for these eventualities. One of the best property repair tips is to replace these things before they break down. This helps you avoid unexpected repair costs later.
Facility Management Maintenance Tips
Once you're familiar with the common tasks associated with your building, set up a maintenance coordination plan to ensure you get it all done on time. This plan should include the following components:
A Maintenance Schedule
Create a list of all the maintenance tasks you need to carry out every year and jot them down on a calendar. Not only will this serve as a reminder, but it will also help you with budgeting and time management.
Inspect Your Property Regularly
Property inspections are key for detecting small repairs and overdue maintenance issues. As you walk about, use a notepad to record the signs of wear and tear in every area of your building.
You should also use this opportunity to test things like lighting, electrical, and HVAC components to ensure they're functioning correctly. It is also a good chance to look for ways to enhance your property's energy efficiency for increased cost savings.
Hire a Commercial Property Manager
Maintenance and repairs are extremely important for maintaining property values and encouraging tenant lease renewals. Careful planning, regular inspections, and systematic scheduling are key aspects of these tasks.
PMI KC Metro is your partner in effective commercial property management in Blue Springs, Missouri. We are a locally-owned company backed by a national franchise with over two decades of experience.
We can assist you with every aspect of maintenance and repairs for your commercial properties. Our range of services also includes tenant management to help your rental business thrive.
Explore a less stressful way to boost your success with commercial property rentals.