Maintaining a commercial property can be a daunting task. As Tampa commercial property managers, we have seen cases where what could have been a very small problem turned into something serious because of a lack of proper maintenance. Our commercial property managers have provided 4 simple property maintenance tips to help you avoid significant and unnecessary costs.
1. PESTS
An infestation of pests, such as rodents, roaches, or termites can have a major negative effect on your commercial property. It is much better to be proactive about pest control, rather than incur costly pest termination charges and possible lost rent due to necessary evacuations to control the problem.
Pest control requires the assistance of professionals. Insects and rodents can stay hidden for months, before realizing you have a pest problem. From our experience as commercial property managers in Tampa, we recommend monthly or bi-monthly pest inspections and preventative measures to promote a pest free property.
2. WATER DAMAGE
If you see signs of water damage, such as splintering of wood on windows and doors, loose tiles, discoloration on the ceiling, or bubbling of panels, there is a good chance that you have a leak in your building. Once these signs are identified, it is imperative to find the source of the problem before the leak leads to mold and major damage.
Preventing serious water damage is as simple as monthly inspections of the property to look for signs of a potential leak. It is also a good idea to create open communication channels with your tenants, so they know to notify the property manager or Tampa commerical property management company to look into the problem immediately.
3. SMOKE DETECTOR & CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS
According to the National Fire Protection Association, since the year 1979, property damage to non-residential properties from fires account for at least $2 billion in damages each year. While some factors are out of your control, you do have control over ensuring your smoke detectors are working appropriately. A good rule of thumb is to check smoke detectors at least once a month. There are three types of smoke alarms, one powered by a nine-volt battery, one powered by a 10-year lithium battery, or one that is powered through the building’s electrical system. Each type should be tested monthly and replaced at least every 10 years.
If a fire does break out and tenant damage or injury occurs as a result, you could be held both financially and legally responsible.
4. AIR FILTERS AND HOT WATER HEATER
Air conditioning units and hot water heaters are extremely expensive to replace, so to ensure they run smoothly they must be maintained throughout the year. Air conditioning filters should be changed out at least twice a year to guarantee air is being circulated efficiently. Dirt and dust build up will make the machine run harder causing increased electric bills and avoidable repairs.
It is also good practice to flush out the hot water heater bi-annually to remove build-up. If the drains get clogged and your hot water heater becomes damaged, you could be faced with major repair costs.
CONCLUSION
Your property should be maintained throughout the year to avoid significant costs that are often avoidable with preventive maintenance. This, however, is not always possible, and it is necessary to bring in a commercial property management company in Tampa, who can take over the responsibility of maintaining your commercial property
Request a proposal today, or call us at (813) 968-5665 to learn more about our commercial property management services.