As the dog days of summer are winding down, building owners and their facility or property managers across Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts should begin planning for the cooler weather ahead.

Jump to FAQs about Preparing Your Commercial Property for Fall Maintenance

Your Fall Prep Cleaning Checklist for RI, CT & MA Buildings

The fall season in New England brings unique challenges, from falling leaves to radically fluctuating temperatures, which can impact the condition of your property.  A preventative maintenance plan will save you money, keep your building safe, healthy and in top shape. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance schedules can prevent costly repairs and replacements. Moreover, it is important for property owners to focus on building upkeep in order to maintain the value of their commercial properties.

Here’s a fall prep checklist to make your life easier and your property run more smoothly.

Why Preventative Maintenance Matters

Preventative maintenance involves taking proactive steps to resolve potential problems before they become major issues. By proactively maintaining your commercial real estate, you can reduce costs by 12-18% and realize 400% in return on investment, improving your bottom line. For commercial properties, this means keeping everything from the HVAC system to the landscaping in good working condition. Staying ahead of the game allows you to:

1. Reduce unexpected repair costs: 

   You’ll save money in the long run by keeping up with regular maintenance.

2. Increase the lifespan of your building’s systems: 

   Maintenance makes equipment and infrastructure last longer, so you don’t have to replace it as often.

3. Improve tenant satisfaction: 

   Clean, well-maintained office buildings have happier tenants, which leads to higher retention rates.

4. Enhance safety: 

   Maintaining cleanliness and checking for hazards prevents accidents and liabilities.

Fall Preparation Checklist for Facility Managers

Take a look at this handy checklist to make your property Fall-ready: 

1. HVAC System Check

• Inspect and clean air filters: Replace dirty filter to ensure good air quality and improve energy efficiency

• Check the thermostat: Make sure it's working correctly and consider updating to a programmable thermostat for energy savings.
• Inspect ducts and vents: Clean out any debris and check for leaks.
• Schedule a professional tune-up: A licensed HVAC technician can identify and fix potential issues before the heating season kicks in.

2. Roof and Gutters Maintenance

• Inspect the roof for damage: Look for loose or missing shingles, and repair any issues to prevent leaks.

• Clean gutters and downspouts: Remove leaves, sticks and debris to prevent water damage and ice dams.

• Check for proper drainage: Ensure water is directed away from the building's foundation.

3. Exterior Cleaning and Maintenance

• Pressure wash sidewalks and entryways: Keep these areas clear of dirt and stains to maintain curb appeal.

• Inspect windows and doors: Clean windows for a streak-free shine and check for any drafts or gaps.

• Trim trees and shrubs: Keep branches away from the building to prevent damage during storms.

4. Interior Cleaning and Preparation

• Deep clean carpets and floors: Remove summer dirt and allergens before they become trapped in the building during colder months. Hire a professional to clean carpeting at the right time and regularly. 

• Disinfect high-touch surfaces: Regularly sanitize door handles, elevators, and communal areas to prevent germ spread.
• Stock up on winter supplies: Ensure you have adequate supplies of de-icing product, shovels, and other essentials for when snow arrives.

5. Lighting and Electrical Systems

• Check and replace outdoor lighting: Ensure pathways and parking areas are well-lit as the days shorten.

• Inspect emergency lighting and exit signs: Confirm they are functioning properly in power outages.

• Test backup generators: Make sure your property is ready for any unexpected power interruptions.

Conclusion

Getting your commercial property ready for fall doesn’t have to be daunting. By following this preventative maintenance checklist, you can tackle the season with confidence, knowing your building is prepared for whatever autumn throws your way. Regular maintenance not only protects your investment but also ensures a safe and welcoming environment for everyone who enters your doors.

So, roll up your sleeves and start checking off those tasks—your property (and your tenants) will thank you!

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Need professional help with fall maintenance? Our expert commercial cleaning and janitorial services team is ready to assist you in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or visit our website to use our customized online quote calculator!

By choosing commercial cleaning services, you can benefit from the expertise of professionals who can deliver exceptional cleaning results and maintain a pristine environment for your business.

FAQs about Janitorial Cleaning vs Commercial Cleaning

1. How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance for my commercial property?

Q: How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance for my commercial property?

A: You should schedule HVAC maintenance at least twice a year -- once in the spring and once in the fall. This ensures your system is ready fr the temperature changes and can help prevent breakdowns during peak usage times. 

2. What are the risks of neglecting gutters and roof maintenance in the fall?

Q: What are the risks of neglecting gutters and roof maintenance in the fall?

A: Neglecting gutters and roof maintenance can lead to water damage, leaks and ice dams, which can cause costly repairs and even structural damage. Keeping gutters clean and inspecting the roof for damage are crucial steps in preventing these issues. 

3. How can I improve air quality in my commercial building during the fall?

Q: How can I improve air quality in my commercial building during the fall?

A: Improving air quality involves several steps: replacing HVAC filters regularly, ensuring proper ventilation, and scheduling deep cleaning of carpets and floors to remove dust and allergens. Using air purifiers in high-traffic areas can also help.

4. Why is exterior lighting important as we transition into fall?

Q: Why is exterior lighting important as we transition into fall?

A: As the days get shorter, good exterior lighting is essential for safety and security. Well-lit pathways and parking areas reduce the risk of accidents and deter potential criminal activity. It also enhances the appearance of your property.

5. What should I include in a winter supplies checklist for my property?

Q: What should I include in a winter supplies checklist for my property?

A: Your winter supplies checklist should include de-icing products (like salt or sand), shovels, snow blowers, and backup generators. It's also a good idea to stock up on supplies like floor mats and wet floor signs to manage snow and ice tracked inside the building.

Lacking janitorial staffing?

Concerned about a staffing shortage and whether you are using the right cleaning service for your workplace? It's not too late to find the perfect janitorial team that will keep your workplace clean and safe. Look for solid custodian referrals and consult with System4 IPS. 

Which custodian or janitorial team is best for you? System4IPS specializes in creating  customized janitorial programs that meet the unique need of businesses like yours!

If your workplace experiences a singular COVID-19 positive case or outbreak, call System4 IPS and schedule your disinfection service today. Our professional team listens to your needs, requirements, and timing. See our many satisfied customer testimonials and public Google ratings.