Maintenance and Repair for Commercial Property Management

When leasing space to business tenants, investors and business owners understand maintenance responsibilities are key to keeping tenants happy and play a part in long-term tenant retention. How well a building is maintained directly reflects an owner’s commitment to creating a positive space in which business tenants can work productively.

Commercial Property Maintenance Responsibilities When Leasing to Tenants

There are several categories of maintenance and repairs for commercial properties. To attract the best possible business tenants and retain them, keep up with all areas of maintenance and portray excellence in the details.

1. Preventative Maintenance

A thorough preventative maintenance schedule is essential to ensure the longevity of the asset and minimize expensive emergency maintenance. Periodic inspections by management is the first step in preventative maintenance.

Landscaping, pest control, quarterly HVAC service, and other routine maintenance is the next step in maintaining a sound investment property. Even if the tenant is responsible for certain maintenance, verification that those services are performed protects you from liability and protects your investment. Always be sure maintenance responsibilities are clearly assigned to each party in the Lease Agreement.

2. Routine Maintenance

Like clockwork, various aspects of a commercial property need to be maintained on a schedule. Sticking with the recommended intervals for attending to these items preserves the building and often delays the need for major repairs. Routine maintenance includes things such as:

  • Weekly landscaping, lawn care, and exterior upkeep

  • Monthly air filter changes

  • Seasonal servicing of heating and air conditioning units

  • Periodic checking that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working well for the safety of your tenants and the property. Keep batteries within these items up-to-date.

3. Scheduled Repairs

When something breaks or doesn’t work as it should, schedule repairs in a timely manner. The roof and major systems should be inspected systematically and repaired or replaced as needed. Schedule repairs such as:

  • Repair or replace roofing if it leaks, or shingles are missing.

  • Repair the property’s foundation if it becomes compromised.

  • If any additional major maintenance needs arise, property owners should address them to prevent additional damage and maintain the safety of the commercial property.

4. Construction or Remodeling

Asset improvement projects – tenant remodels or capital upgrades – require experience and planning. Changes to the building codes, permit applications, NCA and NEMA standards, and business specific requirements for occupancy can have a significant impact on the cost of a project. A team with strong industry connections and a solid knowledge base can be the difference between finishing on-time and on-budget and a substantial loss of income.

5. Emergency Maintenance

Even with adequate preparation, emergencies will still occur. However, if your management team has a plan in place the emergency need not become a crisis. Water, fire, and severe weather can cause major damage, but being prepared to respond and address emergencies can significantly minimize costs and recovery times.

6. Commercial building fire and safety code compliance

The commercial building must satisfy county and national requirements for commercial construction. The building should be free of environmental hazards such as lead paint, lead-contaminated dust, asbestos, and chemical contaminants.

Improve Tenant Retention

Investors and business owners are keenly aware that building maintenance is no place to cut corners. Tenant retention is more likely to be long-term when you:

  • Stay ahead of routine maintenance

  • Build relationships with trusted contractors to call when you need them

  • Address tenant complaints and emergencies with prompt action