The Essential Guide to Commercial Property Maintenance from Oxford Companies

In the world of commercial real estate, the significance of commercial property maintenance and upkeep has only been growing in recent years. It not only ensures the longevity and functionality of the property but also significantly impacts its aesthetic appeal and value. This post is designed to guide commercial property owners through the best practices in maintaining their properties. From routine maintenance to strategic upgrades and renovations, we’ll explore key strategies that can help maximize property potential and maintain its allure for tenants and visitors alike. Whether you’re a seasoned property manager or new to the commercial real estate sector, we aim to provide valuable insights and practical tips to keep your property in top condition.

Understanding Commercial Maintenance

Maintenance and upkeep encompass a wide range of activities aimed at preserving, repairing, and optimizing a property’s condition. It’s important to distinguish between routine maintenance, which includes regular cleaning, landscaping, and minor repairs, and preventive maintenance, designed to prevent larger issues before they occur. Preventive measures might involve inspecting roofing systems, ensuring HVAC units are functioning efficiently, and checking for signs of wear and tear that could escalate into significant problems. By understanding these distinctions, property owners can develop a maintenance strategy that addresses needs both immediate and further out.

Why is Regular Commercial Maintenance Important?

Regular maintenance is essential not only for preserving the aesthetic and functional aspects of a commercial property but also for ensuring the safety of its occupants and compliance with local and federal regulations. Regular checks and repairs can prevent minor issues from becoming major, costly problems down the line, thereby extending the life of the property. This proactive approach to property management can result in significant savings over time by avoiding expensive emergency repairs and replacements. Also, maintaining a safe and well-kept property can enhance tenant satisfaction and retention, which is crucial for the commercial property’s profitability and reputation.

Creating Your Maintenance Plan

Creating an effective maintenance plan for a commercial property starts with identifying the common tasks necessary for preserving the structure and functionality of the building. These might include regular cleaning and janitorial services, landscaping, exterior and interior painting, HVAC maintenance, plumbing checks, and electrical system assessments. Setting a regular maintenance schedule prevents neglect and the accumulation of more severe issues. Budgeting for maintenance costs then allows property owners to allocate the necessary funds for both planned and unexpected repairs, ensuring the property remains in prime condition without financial strain.

How Oxford Companies Deploys Commercial Maintenance Services in Ann Arbor

At Oxford Companies, we employ meticulously crafted maintenance plans as a key strategy for the upkeep of all of our properties, including Nickels Arcade in Ann Arbor, a historic and architecturally significant property. By integrating routine and preventive maintenance tasks, we ensure that this iconic shopping arcade retains its charm and functionality. Our approach includes regular inspections and upkeep of the facade, structural assessments to preserve its historical integrity, and modernizing facilities without detracting from its vintage aesthetic. Through such dedicated efforts, we have been able to not only uphold the architectural heritage of Nickels Arcade but also enhance its appeal to visitors and tenants, fostering a vibrant and inviting atmosphere in one of Ann Arbor’s cherished landmarks.

How Oxford Stands Out

We pride ourselves on our continued dedication to making commercial maintenance as efficient as possible on our end, and as painless as possible on the tenant’s end. We are constantly investing in our commercial maintenance team to deliver the best quality maintenance and construction that we can offer.

For example, we’re moving toward the purchase of an advanced atrium lift that will allow us to work 50 feet in the air, significantly improving our efficiency and safety for exterior projects like window washing and facade repairs. The new lift will enable us to tackle larger jobs that are currently beyond our reach, ensuring we can maintain the highest standards for our properties. We’ve also upgraded our hardware and introduced new tools specifically for concrete work, expanding our ability to handle complex renovations and repairs in-house. With these advancements, we are well-prepared to take on any project, no matter the size or scope, demonstrating our willingness and readiness to meet all of our clients’ needs.

We’re also tackling more and more smaller construction projects, such as moving walls, adding doors, and minor build outs, while minimizing disturbance to tenants.

Our maintenance and repair staff is currently at 26 team members, most of which are OSHA-30 or OSHA-10 certified, depending on the scale of the jobs they do, including preventative maintenance. All team members will be certified in the very near future. 

Implementing Preventative Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is an important strategy for prolonging the life and enhancing the functionality of commercial properties. It involves many steps, including:

• Conducting systematic inspections
• Ensuring all systems operate at optimal efficiency
• Detecting and correcting minor issues before they become significant problems

Establishing a preventive maintenance program requires a thorough understanding of the property’s unique needs, the creation of a detailed inspection schedule, and the engagement of skilled professionals for the assessment and maintenance of critical systems such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and roofing. By investing in preventive maintenance, property managers can significantly reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns, minimize repair costs over time, and provide a safe, attractive, and efficient environment for tenants and visitors.

Using Technology in Commercial Maintenance Management

At Oxford Companies, we leverage advanced maintenance management software to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of its property maintenance operations. This technology allows for real-time monitoring of the property’s condition, streamlined communication between management, maintenance teams, and tenants, and faster response times to maintenance requests. With this software, we can schedule regular maintenance tasks automatically, ensuring no crucial checks or repairs are missed. The software provides valuable data analytics, enabling us to make informed decisions about maintenance priorities and budget allocations. This proactive use of technology not only helps in maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of properties like Nickels Arcade and the iconic 777 building, but also optimizes operational efficiency and tenant satisfaction, setting a high standard in the commercial real estate industry.

Working with a Professional Commercial Maintenance Services Company

Hiring professionals for maintenance tasks is a key consideration for property owners aiming to preserve the value and appeal of their commercial properties. It’s essential to engage specialists when dealing with complex systems such as HVAC, electrical, or plumbing to ensure the work is done accurately and safely, adhering to the latest codes and regulations. Professional maintenance teams bring a level of expertise and experience that can prevent small issues from escalating into costly repairs. When selecting service providers, look for reputable companies with a track record of reliability, excellent communication, and the ability to respond promptly to urgent issues. Recommendations from other property owners, as well as reviews and certifications, can also guide in choosing the right professionals for ongoing maintenance needs. This strategic approach to maintenance and upkeep not only safeguards the property but also enhances tenant satisfaction and retention.

Commercial Property Maintenance Services – Final Thoughts

The consistent investment in property maintenance, including preventive measures and the integration of advanced technology, significantly contributes to the preservation and enhancement of commercial real estate values. Oxford Companies’ commitment to maintaining landmark properties in the Ann Arbor area exemplifies the best practices in the industry, ensuring operational efficiency, tenant satisfaction, and the longevity of the property’s appeal and functionality. We encourage commercial property owners to recognize the long-term benefits of such an approach. 

To learn more about how working with Oxford Companies can optimize your property’s maintenance strategy and overall management, contact us today to talk to a member of our commercial property maintenance team. Our team of experts is ready to assist with any project, and can use our widespread industry connections to coordinate vendors for anything from cabinets to countertops, ensuring any project’s success and sustainability in the competitive real estate market.