During this unprecedented time, buildings are closing their doors and many people are staying home in effort to protect their communities from the spread of COVID-19. As a result of this effort, many facilities — schools, retail buildings, office spaces, and places of worship — are now sitting unoccupied. 

Even though many facilities aren’t in full use, property and facilities maintenance should still be top of mind for any property manager or owner, as there are a host of issues and situations that can occur in an empty building during this time.

Issues empty buildings can be vulnerable to include:

• Mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) system failures
• Vandalism and theft
• Utility issues
• Humidification problems
• Building envelope damage (roofs, windows, etc)
• Pest infestations
• Local municipality intervention
• Fire-protection equipment failure
• Life/safety equipment failure
• Building code certification expiration
• Building insurance costs

To avoid these problems and expenses, property managers and owners should consider having a professional inspect the property regularly while the building is unoccupied. 

In a professional inspection, a maintenance and repair professional walks the entire building, checking all the mechanicals and equipment to ensure they are operating properly and there are no visual breaks, leaks or necessary repairs. They also check for any alarms that may be sounding, any lights that are out, or any other suspicious activity. Any landscaping or grounds issues that need to be addressed are also noted. Something as simple as overgrown grass and weeds could be an invitation for intruders. 

Since the company began, Strada Real Estate Services has provided repair and maintenance services to vacant and unoccupied buildings as one of our core service lines. Our detailed vacant building checklist and thorough inspection service ensure buildings are properly maintained and cared for during periods of unoccupancy.

While the building is unoccupied, property managers and owners should also consider it may be a good time to perform projects that are otherwise difficult to complete while the building is occupied. Projects that involve:

• Carpentry
• Interior drywall
• Painting
• Carpeting
• Lighting 
• Plumbing 

are best completed during times of unoccupancy to avoid affecting the building’s regular operations. If there is a project you’ve been wanting or needing to do, consider having it done now.

As an essential business, Strada Real Estate Services remains open and committed to our clients and future clients to ensure their buildings and facilities are safe, repaired, and in optimal condition. Property and facilities maintenance remain a top priority, even when a facility is empty.

Please let us know how we can assist you during this critical time. You can reach us at 630-325-9301 or info@stradarealestate.com

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