If you’re a business owner, going above and beyond to maintain your commercial property is probably low on your list of priorities. Sure, essential maintenance and upholding a general standard of cleanliness are a given. But between managing staff and focusing on turning a profit, thinking about revamping your space is just not something on your agenda.
We get it, it doesn’t seem like a big deal, but if you pay attention to the forgotten areas of your commercial property, you may just see your business change in ways you’ve never considered!
Your commercial space really is a reflection of your business. If customers see tired, dirty or rundown premises, they’re likely to consider your business in a less than favorable light. Conversely, if they feel welcomed into a beautifully well-maintained space, they’re probably much more likely to consider buying from you.
For those who don’t invite customers into their property, design and maintenance are no less important. Staff who are comfortable in their environment are much more productive than those who sit in dull offices day-in, day-out. What’s more, by taking an interest in the aesthetic and care of your place of work, you demonstrate a level of pride that your employees are likely to uphold through everything they do for you.
So, are you ready to remember the areas you’ve forgotten? Here are the five most commonly neglected areas of any commercial building, and what you can do to show them some love…
The Windows
Your windows are an integral part of your commercial property which you may not see as special, but absolutely should. Window treatments can completely transform your space and are an easy, cost-effective way to bring a sense of style to your business (which both your customers and staff will appreciate).
Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to ensure your windows are not obstructed at all, especially if you have a glass-fronted retail store. But if that’s not the case, the world is your oyster when it comes to window treatments. Brighten up your drab office spaces with fun roman blinds, or opt for stylish shutters.
The Roof
Who has ever considered doing anything with their roof or ceiling? This part of your building may seem like a rather dull element to spend any time considering because there’s not too much you can do to make it stand out. And that’s precisely the point! Your ceiling and roof shouldn’t stand out…because it’s probably for the wrong reasons if they do!
If your commercial metal roof is clearly rusty or your white ceiling is covered in cobwebs, it doesn’t really set the right tone with your customers or staff. While they probably won’t notice it when it’s in good condition, you can be sure they will when it’s in a bad one!
So, make sure you maintain this area by following the specific care guidelines for your roof type, keeping it clean and addressing any issues as soon as they arise to avoid costly repairs later.
The Floors
Just as the window treatments you add to your windows can change the entire feel of your space, so too can your floors.
Commercial flooring is subject to much more wear and tear than residential flooring. You should be mindful of the fact that you may need to be more vigilant in keeping an eye on the state of the flooring in your property. If you have stained and pulled carpet, consider replacing it. If you have scratched and scuffed hardwood flooring, get it reoiled! If your vinyl is ripped in places, get it professionally repaired.
The Appliances
Are your appliances in good working order? Do you regularly service them? There’s nothing worse than broken or malfunctioning appliances, and it’s usually the case that you don’t think about them until they’re gone. Our trusty air conditioning units run and run until they don’t run anymore. And an out-of-order HVAC can wreak havoc on your business; hot and flustered customers leave without buying and uncomfortably warm staff are less productive.
So, before you get to that stage, make sure you schedule in regular maintenance by a professional HVAC servicing company!
The Staff Rest Areas
Your staff is your most valuable asset and by keeping the morale high within your team, you’ll see higher productivity, efficiency, and results. You may not think it means much, but sprucing up the staff room, adding a coffee machine to the kitchen or placing a vase of flowers to the restrooms can go a long way to letting your staff know you care. If you have an outdoor space, why not create an open-air chill-out zone for your employees, equipped with a grill for fun summer cookouts?
