Your Commercial Property Maintenance Checklist for Summer

The heat, humidity and adverse weather conditions of summer can take a toll on your commercial property. While regular maintenance is a year-round job, there are specific tasks that should be done during warmer months to keep your tenants comfortable and protect your investment.

Why Summer CRE Maintenance Matters

Daily wear and tear from tenant use and seasonal changes can compound over time. So, what may have been minor expenses become more expensive repair costs. Conducting seasonal system check-ins – particularly for HVAC systems– allows you to optimize performance, manage utility expenses, and prevent failures during the hottest time of the year.

CRE HVAC Maintenance

Your HVAC system performance controls interior climate and air quality, which impacts your tenants’ comfort and health.

Keep these tasks in mind:

• Dust vents, return ducts and ceiling fixtures.
• Change air filters every one to three months.
• Calibrate thermostats for consistent ambient temperature.
• Check rooftop units for damage and corrosion.
• Keep evaporator and condenser coils clean to maintain system efficiency.
• Upgrade to a smart thermostat for more efficient climate management.
• Schedule a full inspection with a licensed HVAC technician.

Roof Inspections

Poor roof maintenance can increase the risk of air and moisture leaks, which could compromise the structural integrity of your commercial property’s interior.

Complete the following each summer:

• Conduct monthly inspections to spot cracks, punctures and damage before it progresses.
• Look for signs of UV degradation, such as discoloration, delamination, loss of reflectivity and chalking.
• Clean gutters and downspouts for proper drainage.
• Verify rooftop HVAC units are sealed properly.

Parking Lot and Exterior Maintenance

Curb appeal is essential for attracting and retaining tenants. That’s why it’s important to give the exterior and parking lot a once-over each summer.

Here’s how to get started:

• Seal cracks and fill potholes in your parking lot or garage.
• Restripe faded parking spaces and directional lines.
• Replace damaged or faded signage.
• Test exterior lighting and replace burned-out bulbs and panels.
• Pressure wash exterior walls, entrances and sidewalks.
• Touch up chipped or peeling paint.

Groundskeeping Tasks

Keeping up on lawn care and other groundskeeping not only maintains your property’s attractiveness but also reduces safety hazards and supports appreciation.

• If you don’t mow yourself, contract a professional lawn service to keep the grass cut throughout the summer.
• Edge along sidewalks, curbs and flower beds.
• Trim trees and bushes away from your building, lighting and signage.
• Remove or treat weeds in garden beds and pavement cracks.
• Clear storm drains.
• Test sprinkler systems and monitor for leaks.

Building Envelope Upkeep

A poorly maintained building envelope can lead to air leaks, water intrusion and damage to interior finishes.

To prevent those issues, complete these tasks:

• Verify caulk and seals around doorways and windows are intact.
• Wash windows to avoid debris and mold buildup.
• Inspect doorframes for gaps and warping.
• Look for mineral deposits on masonry, as that could indicate water infiltration.
• Inspect the foundation for cracks and water damage.
• Keep a detailed report of your findings to track inspection and repair progress.

Interior Systems and Common Areas

The following maintenance processes should be completed to enhance the aesthetic and functional appeal of your commercial property:

• Deep clean carpets and rugs to improve air quality and eliminate odors.
• Inspect entrances and hallways for scuffs and scratches and touch up paint.
• Check ceiling tiles for staining.
• Disinfect high-traffic areas like elevators, restrooms and lobbies.
• Test fire safety and sprinkler systems.
• Check faucets and plumbing for corrosion and leaks.
• Test emergency alarms and phones inside elevators.
• Schedule service with a licensed elevator contractor.
• Test access and security controls at all entries.
• Inspect and repair caulk and grout in restrooms.

Work with Local Commercial Property Maintenance Experts

Whether you want assistance to supplement your efforts or a comprehensive strategy to take property maintenance off your hands, DRK and Company can help. Our team can provide you with CRE maintenance services in Columbus, Ohio, giving you the time to focus on optimizing your assets and finding and retaining tenants. Contact us to schedule a consultation.