Top issues property management faces in commercial buildings

Managing a commercial facility involves overcoming various obstacles that could jeopardize the property's operational effectiveness and security. The range of possible problems is extensive and covers anything from electrical problems that disrupt daily activities to water leaks that result in structural damage.

These problems affect the property and put tenants and employees in danger, which could increase maintenance costs and result in downtime.

Property managers and business owners need to understand the most common problems that arise in commercial properties. By proactively addressing these issues, you can preserve a safe, practical, and energy-efficient environment and eventually save time and money.

Water Leaks

Water leaks are a major problem in business buildings that can result in expensive repairs and significant damage. Commercial buildings, in contrast to residential ones, are usually larger and have intricate plumbing systems dispersed over several stories. A little leak can easily go unnoticed for an extended length of time, causing substantial water damage that compromises not just the building's structure but also its HVAC system, electrical systems, and general safety.

Water leaks in commercial property can also cause a large amount of downtime for operations. Business operations may need to be disrupted if the leak is so bad that parts of the building need to be closed off for repairs. This results in missed productivity and possible income in addition to repair costs.

Leak-related water damage can be quite expensive in the United States. Repairs for mild water damage in a business structure typically cost between $2,000 and $5,000. On the other hand, substantial water damage, if ignored, can end up costing between $20,000 and $50,000, particularly if it affects numerous levels or necessitates replacing damaged structural components. The price includes mold removal, diminished property value, and possible business disruptions in addition to repairs. Prompt action is essential to prevent costs from rising and safeguard your investment.

Electric Faulds

Commercial building electrical problems can pose a serious risk to public safety, need expensive repairs, and disrupt operations. These malfunctions, which include problems like blown fuses, circuit breaker tripping, short circuits, and power surges, are frequently brought on by shoddy maintenance, outdated infrastructure, or incorrect installations. Electrical difficulties can have a wide range of effects, from simple annoyances like flickering lights and broken equipment to serious repercussions like electrical fires.

The risk of fire is one of the main issues with electrical malfunctions. Electrical malfunctions are one of the main causes of fire in commercial buildings, accounting for thousands of occurrences each year, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). These flames have the potential to cause enormous downtime for enterprises, destroy property, and harm lives. Electrical problems can harm valuable equipment even in the absence of a fire, necessitating costly repairs or replacements.

Depending on how serious the problem is, fixing electrical problems in commercial buildings can get expensive. The cost of minor repairs, such as changing a circuit breaker or repairing a dead outlet, can range from $150 to $500. However, significant problems that necessitate rewiring or the replacement of substantial electrical system components might cost up to $10,000. In situations where an electrical malfunction results in a fire, the expenses associated with repairs and restorations may surpass tens of thousands of dollars.

HVAC Issues

Commercial buildings frequently experience HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) problems, which can cause severe discomfort, costly repairs, and downtime. Any breakdown in the HVAC systems, which control temperature and provide enough ventilation, can have an impact on a building's inhabitants' overall productivity.

Inadequate maintenance is one of the biggest issues with commercial building HVAC systems. Dust, debris, and mold can build up on parts like filters, coils, and ducts over time, lowering performance and degrading indoor air quality. Filters that are blocked or dirty make the system work harder, increasing energy consumption and utility costs. The U.S. Department of Energy claims that well-maintained HVAC systems can save energy use by as much as 15%.

Uneven temperature regulation is another frequent problem. Certain parts of the building may be overheated while others are kept excessively chilly due to malfunctioning thermostats, inadequately scaled systems, or uneven airflow. In addition to causing pain for staff members and customers, this can also result in overheating of gear or servers, which can cause operational inefficiencies.

Leaks in the duct system are another common problem. Inadequate sealing of ducts can result in substantial air leakage, necessitating increased system effort to sustain the intended temperature. These leaks may be a factor in rising operating expenses and energy usage. According to estimates, leaks, gaps, or incorrect connections can cause up to 30% of the air in duct systems to be lost.

Excess Moisture and Mold

Overly high humidity, water damage, and inconsistent temperature control are typical indicators of excessive moisture in a commercial structure. Leaks, inadequate ventilation, or exposure to the outdoors can all lead to moisture accumulation in various locations. 

Over-moisture demands careful attention. This might sometimes mean straightforward solutions, like getting rid of plants that give off moisture, or more involved ones, such as covering walls below grade with waterproof membranes to stop condensation. By taking these precautions, moisture is kept from penetrating the structure and inflicting long-term harm.

Depending on the extent of the damage, the size of the affected area, and the required restoration techniques, the cost of managing water damage and excessive moisture in commercial buildings can vary dramatically. 

Another expensive aspect to take into account is mold cleanup since mold spores grow best in damp surroundings and can be harmful to indoor air quality and human health. Mold removal typically costs between $500 to $6,000, but when treating extensive or persistent mold, the cost might reach $10,000.

Gas leaks

Leaks of gas in business buildings are a serious and sometimes fatal issue. These leaks may be the result of old infrastructure, damaged pipelines, or incorrect gas system installation. Serious outcomes, such as fires, explosions, or health risks from gas inhalation, might result from even a tiny leak.

The fact that gas leaks might be hard to find without the right monitoring systems is one of the most worrying elements of them. Natural gas and propane are odorless by nature, nevertheless, mercaptan is sometimes added to give these gases a distinct scent. However, a leak may go unnoticed for a long time, enabling gas to build up, if the building's residents are unaware of the scent or if it happens in an unused area.

An accidental gas leak might have disastrous results. For commercial facilities, this can mean completely stopping operations to protect staff and tenants. If the leak causes an explosion or fire, there may be significant property damage, company interruption, and even major legal ramifications. For instance, the building owner may be sued for negligence if workers or residents experience health issues as a result of gas exposure.

The cost of fixing a gas leak in the United States can vary greatly based on the location and degree of leakage. More serious leaks—especially those that necessitate pipe replacements—can cost between $1,000 and $5,000, while minor repairs might range from $150 to $750. Furthermore, there can be additional fees for emergency services or after-hours repairs. In addition to being a question of safety, taking proactive measures to fix gas leaks can save money by preventing higher expenses in the future.

Door Locks

You must make sure your commercial building is secure. Commercial buildings are frequently deserted after work hours, unlike residential premises, which have constant foot traffic and activity. This makes them easy targets for theft, particularly on weekends and after 5 PM.

Every office door and large door should have high-quality, reliable locks installed. You are accountable for the general security of the premises, thus if you neglect to keep your locks safe, you may be held accountable for any thefts that take place within the facility. Take all required safeguards because your renters may store sensitive or valuable materials in their offices. Strong locks and dependable security systems help protect your investment from any liabilities in addition to keeping your tenants secure.

In the United States, incidences of robbery and burglary targeting business premises are common, although they differ between states and counties. As an illustration, the number of business robberies in 2022 increased significantly from prior years to 53 incidences per 100,000 persons. With some counties, like Los Angeles, having exceptionally high robbery rates (60 occurrences per 100,000), this indicates a 13.3% increase from 2019. Other countries like Fresno witnessed robbery spikes as high as 51%. Commercial burglaries, which do not include the use of force against individuals, have also increased dramatically; in certain places, reports of rises have reached 50%.

Roomsys commercial buildings solution

With its all-inclusive smart building solution designed specifically for commercial buildings, Roomsys guarantees effective management and monitoring. Roomsys provides building managers with the tools they need to maximize occupant comfort, safety, and operational effectiveness. These sensors keep an eye on metrics, such as water and gas leaks, temperature swings, and air quality. They also send out real-time alerts so that quick action may be taken to reduce possible risks or damage.

All of these sensors are monitored centrally by the Roomsys platform, which provides building managers with an easy-to-use interface. It helps them to quickly resolve concerns like leaks or environmental changes while boosting overall security. It's also simple for customers to keep track of building operations thanks to features like shut-off valve management, thermostat settings, and quick notification via the Roomsys platform or web dashboard.

Wireless sensor technology makes it easier to use in a variety of business venues since it makes installation straightforward and affordable. Roomsys makes commercial buildings safer, smarter, and more efficient with the newest IoT technologies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a comprehensive awareness of the different hindrances that may affect a commercial building's operating effectiveness and safety is necessary for good building management. These problems, which can range from electrical problems to water leaks, endanger not only the property's structural integrity but also the safety of the occupants and staff, thereby increasing maintenance expenses and downtime. Through early identification and proactive resolution of these prevalent issues, proprietors and property managers can establish a safe, operational, and energy-conserving setting. This tactical strategy not only improves the building's overall performance but also helps to save money and time over the long run.

Contact Roomsys and protect your commercial property from any possible problem that may occur.