Managing a large commercial property or hospitality venue like a hotel, motel, resort, or apartment building can be challenging for someone who isn’t familiar with all the things that can go wrong and how to prevent them. On the other hand, once you’ve learned those things then it can really be an enjoyable job, so there’s no need to fret about whether you’ll be able to keep up with it all as long as you’ve done your research. Part of that research will be to become aware of the main problems that you’re likely to encounter.
With that said, here are a few things you can do to prevent the need for premature maintenance or repairs. To help us prepare these helpful tips ARCHISCENE magazine editors talked to the team of managers behind the Commercial real estate Dayton Ohio development. The management team shared in this special conversation for our readers tips on routine walkthroughs, taking care of appliances, addressing tenant complaints and prevention:
Conducting Routine Walkthroughs and Inspections
Usually a problem will start off as minor issue and then get worse until there’s a need for a huge replacement or repair. For example, a door might be closing stubbornly because one of the hinges is loose. If you replace that hinge immediately, the door will continue to work for many years. But if you leave it alone, then the hinge holes could be stripped and you may even need a whole new door if it’s damaged while being closed. Thus, it’s best to conduct frequent inspections and walkthroughs in each unit wherever possible. This would entail hiring the appropriate professionals to assist you in assessing important areas. You’ll definitely want to bring a local plumber. You can find one by entering the word “plumbing” and then the name of your city in Google (i.e. – plumbing Toronto).
Changing and Updating Appliances and Accessories as Needed
If an A/C unit, oven, or refrigerator is giving you problems, it’s best to have it looked at as soon as possible. Many times appliances just need a bit of maintenance in the form of a tiny replacement part that will make it work like new again. However, if you neglect the problem and leave the broken part instead, you could permanently damage the appliance and then have to buy an entirely new replacement instead of just a small part.
It’s best to conduct frequent inspections and walkthroughs in each unit wherever possible. This would entail hiring the appropriate professionals to assist you in assessing important areas.
Heeding and Addressing Complaints in a Timely Manner
Finally, never ignore any complaints from a tenant or guest if it’s something that could easily be fixed. Many property managers have the tendency to put the little things off, but then before you know it you have a to-do list with a dozen little things on it and it becomes overwhelming. Don’t let minor issues get lost in translation or put on the back burner, as these seemingly insignificant problems can add up to more hassle in the long-term.
Staying on Top of Things Before They Get Out of Hand
If you’ve ever seen a rundown establishment before then you know that the one thing they all have in common is that there is tons of work that needs to be done on the property. Maintenance needs stand out everywhere from bad paint to corroded walkways and dirty windows. Poorly kept places will inevitably lose their appeal and value, so it’s imperative to look after the property on an ongoing basis to make sure everything is in working and aesthetically pleasing order.
All Images from Millenium/Prague Lobby and Reception Design by DECHEM & Formfatal – discover the project.
