Commercial property is a major investment. Maintaining the interior and exterior of your property is vital if you want to maintain the value of your investment and retain tenants.
Outdoor maintenance
Curb appeal isn’t just for your home. Your commercial property should be nicely landscaped and maintained. Walkways and parking lots need regular attention in order to avoid safety issues like potholes or tripping hazards. The building itself should be inspected to make sure the roof is doing its job and the HVAC system is operating efficiently. If you have an outdoor security system or other lighting, cameras and bulbs should be cleaned and tested regularly. Upgrades and improvements to any of these items will not only help your property maintain its value, it can actually increase the value dramatically.
Indoor maintenance
While the exterior provides a first impression, the interior of your commercial property is also important to maintain. Are your lobby, reception areas, elevator well lit? Light has a way of elevating one’s mood, and a darkened interior — especially one where light bulbs are burned out — is a real downer. It can make a newcomer wonder what else gets ignored. Filters should be changed regularly and air purification systems can be used to give indoor air quality a major boost. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, alarm systems and fire extinguishers should be updated with the latest models.
Cleanliness is key. Dust on end tables, lamps and baseboards is a tell-tale sign that someone is not paying attention to detail. A spotless bathroom that is properly stocked with paper products is absolutely essential, and don’t forget that many people use drinking fountains and expect them to be sparkling and operating as they should. Spotless windows, unmarked floors and fresh paint show tenants and customers that you care about the property.
LEED certification
Another way to increase the value of your property is to obtain LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Being able to advertise your building as LEED certified shows dedication to efficiency, environmentalism and sustainability. It also provides cost savings over time and a healthy environment for tenants. Criteria are dependent on the type of building you own and whether it is currently under construction. Even if you are unable to meet all the criteria for certification, working toward that goal, one project at a time, can increase the value of your property and make it more efficient to operate.
Your commercial property is more than just a financial investment. It also requires an investment of time and energy to keep it safe, clean and inviting for all who visit.
