Commercial properties and residential properties are very different investments. While residential landlords in Richmond, VA, are generally responsible for maintenance and repairs, commercial landlords have fewer responsibilities.
Commercial landlords should include a maintenance and repair clause in a lease agreement to make all tasks clear to both parties. Unless there is a structural problem, commercial landlords can sit back and earn rental income with little maintenance work.
Of course, there are tips to help you and your tenants keep the property in top shape. Keep reading to learn them.
Complete Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance and repairs can help keep your commercial property in good condition. Think of routine maintenance as preventative maintenance. You can conduct regular inspections to check:
- HVAC systems
- Plumbing systems
- Electrical systems
These inspections are vital to identifying potential problems before they require costly repairs or replacements. Routine maintenance will maximize your assets and minimize operational costs.
Check the Building's Exterior
Commercial buildings can wear over time, especially on the outside. While you can't always prevent this from happening, you can manage it.
Check your building's exterior to decide if you need outdoor property maintenance. These tasks could include:
- Cleaning parking lots
- Maintaining landscaping
- Enhancing curb appeal
- Powerwashing the building
Neglecting exterior maintenance does a lot more harm than good. A potential tenant will get their first impression from the exterior of your building. Make sure the first impression is a good one.
Respond to Maintenance Requests
Commercial properties will need repairs and replacements over time. No matter how much preventative maintenance you complete, this is inevitable.
When you have a tenant, consider setting up a resident portal where they can easily make maintenance requests. As the commercial property owner, you are responsible for structural property repair.
To preserve your rental income, it's best to respond to maintenance requests as soon as possible. If you hire a property management company, they will coordinate maintenance for you.
Establish a Schedule
To keep your commercial properties in top shape, you'll need to create a regular maintenance schedule for cleaning and upkeep. This schedule could include daily tasks that tenants or cleaners are responsible for.
The schedule will depend on the size and type of commercial building you own. For optimal safety, make sure your fire safety systems are tested at least monthly. Windows and doors should be checked once a year.
Consider hiring a janitor or professional commercial cleaning company to minimize wear and tear. Keeping the place clean ensures it looks as professional as possible for tenants and their clients.
Commercial Property Maintenance and Repairs Made Easy
Commercial property maintenance and repairs generally fall under the responsibility of the tenant, unless there are structural issues.
Commercial landlords have less responsibility, but they should still work to keep their property in top shape. With these tips and the help of a commercial property management company, you can make that happen.
PMI Presidential in Richmond, VA, has been helping commercial landlords like you for years. Commercial property management is our specialty and we're ready to take on your investment.
Contact us today to learn how a partnership can benefit you.
