Sustainable Practices for Property Managers

Did you know that practicing sustainable property management does not have to be complicated? While some property management companies might begin to look for sustainable options out of climate concerns, many more are sticking with the programs for the savings they bring. It is true! Waste reduction, energy efficiency, and reduced water usage are all sustainable practices for lowering utility bills.

Which Properties Can Benefit From Sustainable Practices?

Residential properties are top of mind. Commercial buildings and mixed-use developments can also minimize costs by reducing their carbon footprint. The same goes for distribution centers and warehouses. 

Timely Routine Maintenance is the First Step to Environmentally Friendly Practices

It is likely something your company is already doing. However, if you notice too much lag between opening and closing maintenance requests, you can make improvements. This is a sustainable property management practice because it focuses on optimizing energy and water consumption. Concurrently, keeping on top of any maintenance needs ensures that there are no sudden repair expenses you have to deal with and allocate funds for.

Next, Check Out Your Website's Hosting Company

Another step you can take almost immediately is to check in with your website's hosting company. Servers need a lot of energy, and many companies rely only on fossil fuels to power them. However, a few companies use only green energy sources. If yours is not one of them, switch providers. 

Eco-Friendly Cleanliness is Next to Godliness

Property owners, real estate industry insiders, and property managers agree that eco-friendly cleaners have come a long way. They are now excellent alternatives to the harsh chemicals found in standard commercial cleaners. Moreover, environmentally friendly cleaning products are often less expensive and safer for your staff. You do not have to throw out all the cleaners you just bought. Start small. Pick one cleaning product and replace it with a sustainable alternative. Then, keep going. 

Overhaul Any Landscaping You Have

You are already on top of sprinkler maintenance. But did you know native plants need much less water than ornamentals from other growing zones? If you spend an extraordinary amount of time maintaining and watering your landscape, it may be time to evaluate the plants you have. Some property managers have gone so far as to eliminate lawns in favor of native grasses. The money you save may offset any costs involved with pool remodeling!

Waste Reduction Through Recycling

Offer tenants – residential or commercial – recycling options. Invest in special bins, ensure that they are easily accessible for everyone, and empty them consistently. Your commitment to sustainable property management might also extend to hosting recycling events such as paper shredding, electronic recycling, and hazardous waste collections. Doing so in partnership with the local municipalities is an excellent way of building goodwill in the community.

Change Your Building Practices

When you add to the property or remodel it, consider the environmental impact your actions have. Sustainable building practices include installing paints and carpets with low volatile organic compounds (VOC). Rethink the installation of energy-efficient windows and insulation. 

Most importantly, low-energy appliances such as fans or dishwashers should be incorporated. Depending on how committed you are to this process, remember that there are third-party green building accreditations and certifications. In addition to documenting your commitment to sustainable property management, they are also excellent marketing tools when you are looking for new tenants. Many larger corporations now look for these types of certificates before committing to long-term leases.

Add Solar Panels

Solar panels are a serious commitment to sustainability because they require an up-front investment. However, once they are in place, the sun lets you harness clean energy, making you somewhat independent of the power grid. When other properties in the area are shut off from electricity because of brown-outs or preventative shut-offs, yours will continue to supply tenants with electricity. Best of all, there is plenty of room for solar panels. Even if your rooflines are not ideal, consider the parking lot covers and other areas where you provide shade for tenants. In the long run, these panels make plenty of financial sense. 

Attract Eco-Friendly Tenants

There is no doubt that you will pass on the expense of some of these sustainability steps you take. However, when you have tenants who are on board with your commitment to corporate social change, they will not mind paying a little more. Therefore, advertise the availability of your property to tenants who are interested in sustainability, environmental responsibility, and counteracting climate change. Remember that you can use any of the steps you have taken already in your marketing collateral. Additionally, when you outline the vision you have for the property over the next five or ten years, there is a good chance that new tenants want to be a part of it.

Encourage Your Tenants' Commitment to Green Transportation Practices

Commercial property managers are already making changes in their parking lot setups. For example, there are now shopping centers and school parking lots where drivers with electric vehicles will have preferential parking. The investment is as low as a sign that alerts customers to the presence of these spots. If you want to take your focus on sustainable practices to the next level, consider installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. They are a strong draw for motorists who are now investing in EVs.

Stay on Top of Needed Infrastructure Improvements and be Visible to Tenants

When your tenants see you and your maintenance team working at the property, they know your commitment to sustainability is still strong. Your presence is a powerful reminder that this property is run differently from others they may know. Moreover, you can partner with experts to take care of maintenance that calls for professionals. A case in point is commercial waterproofing. It protects your structures and reduces the waste associated with replacements. We can be your partner in this endeavor. Call us today!