November 2022 - Bilt by Jaffer

Monthly Archives: November 2022

A simple guide to Hotel Maintenance

Maintenance of a hotel property is an essential part of running a successful business. Ensuring that all systems and components, such as HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, electrical, and elevators, are functioning correctly can help create a pleasant environment for your guests while also avoiding potential disasters. By performing regular inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance on these systems, you can help extend the life of your property and ensure that it is operating at its best. Regular property maintenance also helps to protect your investment by reducing the need for costly emergency repairs.

At the same time, property maintenance should be viewed holistically to identify which areas are more critical than others and require more attention. HVAC systems, for example, typically require frequent maintenance to keep them running smoothly, while elevators may only need attention once or twice a year. Knowing which items are the most important can help you prioritize property maintenance tasks so that your property is always kept in peak condition.

By understanding property maintenance and how to maintain your property properly, you can ensure that your property is operating at its best and maximize the potential of your investment. With the right knowledge and tools, property maintenance doesn’t have to be a difficult or time-consuming task.

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)

The HVAC system of a hotel property is one of the most important aspects to consider when it comes to property maintenance. Not only does this system provide comfortable temperatures and air quality, but it also helps to control humidity levels and circulation of fresh air throughout the property. To ensure that the system is functioning correctly, inspection and maintenance should be completed regularly.

Inspection of the HVAC system should be done at least twice a year, while repairs or maintenance should be done as needed. During an inspection, technicians will check for any signs of wear or damage to the components and make sure that all parts are working properly. This includes checking the air filters, blowers, and evaporator coils for any obstructions or signs of damage.

In addition to inspection and repairs, regular preventative maintenance should also be done on the HVAC system to keep it operating at its best. This includes checking and cleaning the air ducts, adjusting the fan speed, replacing worn parts, and ensuring that the system is properly insulated.

By performing regular inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance on your property’s HVAC system, you can help ensure it is functioning correctly and provide a comfortable environment for your guests. This can help to extend the life of the system while also reducing the risk of costly emergency repairs in the future.

Plumbing

The plumbing system in a hotel property is one of the most complex and important aspects to consider when it comes to property maintenance. From toilets, faucets, and showers to drains, pipes, and septic systems, ensuring that all components are functioning correctly can help provide guests with a comfortable stay while also avoiding costly damage due to faulty plumbing.

Regular inspection and maintenance are essential for keeping the property’s plumbing system running smoothly. This includes checking for any signs of wear or damage to the components, as well as making sure that all parts are connected properly and functioning correctly. If a repair is needed, it should be done promptly to avoid further damage and potential emergencies.

In addition to inspection and repairs, the property’s plumbing system should also be maintained regularly. This includes checking for any clogs or blockages in the pipes, tightening connections, and replacing worn parts as needed.

By performing regular inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance on your property’s plumbing system, you can help ensure it is functioning correctly and provide a comfortable property for your guests. This can help to extend the life of the system while also minimizing the risk of costly emergency repairs in the future.

Electrical

The electrical system of a hotel property is one of the most important aspects to consider when it comes to property maintenance. Not only can faulty electrical systems be dangerous, but they can also lead to costly repairs in the future if not properly maintained.

Inspection and testing of the property’s electrical system should be done regularly to ensure that all components are functioning correctly and safely. This includes checking for any signs of wear or damage to the components, as well as making sure that all parts are connected properly and securely.

In addition to inspection and repairs, property personnel should also be sure to perform regular preventive maintenance on all electrical systems. This includes checking for any loose wires or damaged components, making sure that all outlets are properly grounded, and ensuring that the property’s wiring is up-to-date with current building codes.

By performing regular inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance on your property’s electrical system, you can help ensure it is functioning correctly and safely. This can go a long way in helping to extend the life of the system while also reducing the risk of costly emergency repairs in the future.

By paying attention to property maintenance items such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, hotel property owners can help extend the life of their property while also minimizing the risk of costly emergency repairs. Regular inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance are essential for ensuring that all components are functioning correctly and safely. By following this advice, property owners can help to ensure their property is comfortable and safe for guests while also avoiding any unexpected expenses down the road.

Elevators

Elevators are an important part of any hotel property and should be given special attention when it comes to property maintenance. Not only can faulty elevators be dangerous, but they can also lead to costly repairs in the future if not properly maintained or inspected regularly.

Inspection and testing of the property’s elevator systems should be done regularly to ensure that all components are functioning correctly and safely. This includes checking for any signs of wear or damage to the components, as well as making sure that all parts are connected properly and securely. If a repair is needed, it should be done promptly to avoid further damage and potential emergencies.

In addition to inspection and repairs, property personnel should also be sure to perform regular preventive maintenance on all elevator systems. This includes checking for any loose wires or damaged components, making sure that all parts are well lubricated and functioning correctly, and ensuring that the property’s wiring is up-to-date with current building codes.

Allocating your Maintenance Resources

No business has limitless resources. Scheduling as many inspections and repairs as possible, acquiring the best possible replacement parts for your assets, or buying the best possible equipment for your property, are all going to require a huge amount of money, money that will probably have to come from other parts of your budget where it might be put to better use.

Clearly, then, you can’t just throw money at the problem of good maintenance for your hotel, at least not without overspending with diminishing returns. Property owners and managers need to be able to allocate their limited maintenance resources as efficiently as possible. From one perspective, this is fairly simple:

Figure out what the lifecycle of each of your assets is supposed to be, and compare it to how old the asset is to estimate how long it will last without further repairs.
Get an inspection done, or review the notes from a recent inspection, and use that information to adjust your estimate of the life left in that asset. If the asset is doing unexpectedly well, extend the lifespan estimate; if it’s in surprisingly poor condition, decrease it proportionally.
Schedule another inspection for the estimated end of the asset’s lifespan.
Make plans and/or preparations for repair or replacement of the asset, depending on its condition.
Set a portion of the budget aside for emergencies, should any arise.

This is probably the essential framework of most property managers’ maintenance plans (if in a less formalized form), regardless of what kind of property they run. In this model, owners and operators should allocate their maintenance resources based reactively based on what’s currently causing problems and proactively based on what is likely to cause problems in the near future. There’s nothing wrong with this model, but it could be better. If you don’t think that there’s much room for improvement on this model, then ask yourself this one question:

How much influence does each of your assets have on your overall profit margin?

Intelligent allocation of maintenance resources is about more than just ensuring that all of your property is in good condition. It’s about prioritizing those repairs and maintenance items which are most likely to affect your property’s bottom line so that you can maximize the return on each of your investments.

In other words, property managers should always be asking themselves: what items need attention right now? To do this, property owners and managers should have a good understanding of what their property’s most profitable assets are and how likely those assets are to fail before the end of their lifespans. With this in mind, property owners and managers can allocate their maintenance resources efficiently and effectively.

By maintaining an effective property maintenance plan that focuses on the property’s most profitable assets, property owners and managers can ensure that their property remains in good condition and generate a healthy return on investment. With the right maintenance plan in place, property owners and managers can rest assured that their properties will remain profitable for many years to come.

Property owners and managers should always remember that good property maintenance is an investment, not just an expense. When property owners and managers can prioritize their property’s most profitable assets while still paying attention to all of the property’s other maintenance needs, they will be able to get the most out of their property and maximize its value. Investing in property maintenance is key to ensuring that your property remains a profitable business for years to come.

Bilt’s Asset Management consulting program equips property managers in many industries, not just hospitality, with the knowledge and expertise needed to develop and adapt top-tier maintenance plans and practices. Get in touch with us today to schedule a free meeting to see if our program is right for you and your property.

Don’t Neglect a Property Just Because it’s New

Property maintenance is just as important for new buildings as it is for older ones. Just because a building is new doesn’t mean you can neglect regular maintenance tasks – in fact, you should have a plan in place for routine care of your building’s systems and components. This will help ensure that your new construction stays looking good and functioning well for years to come!

When you first have a property built, it’s important to establish a regular routine for property maintenance. Just because a building is new doesn’t mean you can neglect regular maintenance tasks-in fact, you should have a plan in place for routine care of your building’s systems and components. This will help ensure that your new construction stays looking and functioning well for years to come!

There are many benefits to performing regular maintenance on your property. First and foremost, it helps ensure the safety of everyone who lives or works there. Property maintenance also helps protect your investment, by keeping your property in good condition and preventing costly repairs down the road. Additionally, regular maintenance can help increase the lifespan of your property’s systems and components.

So what exactly do you need to do for proper property maintenance? Here are six key steps:

1. Keep all areas clean and free of clutter. This includes sidewalks, parking lots, and landscaping areas.

The first step in any maintenance task is to organize and clean your surroundings. This is also true of regular maintenance and maintenance schedules. If an area is clean and tidy, it will be easier to do the required task. If you always keep everything clean and tidy, then it will always be easier and more efficient to do maintenance.

It’s not just about having a property that looks nice – regular property maintenance can also save you money in the long run. For one, it helps keep everything organized and clean, which makes it easier and less time-consuming to do tasks like repairs or inspections. Additionally, when everything is clean and in its place, it’s easier to notice any potential problems or issues. This means that you can address them sooner before they have a chance to become bigger and more costly problems.

So make sure to keep your property clean and organized, not just for aesthetic reasons, but also for practical reasons. It will save you time and money in the long run!

2. Inspect all components of the property on a regular basis. This includes roofs, windows, doors, HVAC systems, wiring, etc.

It’s important to perform comprehensive property inspections on a regular basis, in order to identify any potential problems or issues. This includes inspecting all components of the property, from the roof to the wiring. If you neglect any part of your property, you could end up with costly repairs down the road.

That’s why it’s important to have a well-rounded inspection schedule and to make sure that you don’t miss any components of your property. By inspecting all parts of your property regularly, you can catch any potential problems before they become too big or expensive to fix.

3. Make repairs as needed, using only qualified contractors.

When it comes to property maintenance, it’s important to use only qualified professionals. This is because improper or inexperienced repairs can lead to even more damage and more costly repairs in the future. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure to only hire qualified contractors who have experience with property maintenance.

Cutting corners on property maintenance can be risky business. Not only could you end up with bigger and more costly repairs down the road, but you could also put yourself, your property, and your tenants at risk. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure to use qualified professionals when it comes to property maintenance.

4. Develop a plan for routine preventive property maintenance tasks (e.g., changing air filters, checking caulking/sealing around doors/windows).

One of the most important aspects of property maintenance is routine preventative maintenance. This means taking measures to prevent problems from happening in the first place, rather than waiting for them to occur and then trying to fix them. Routine preventative maintenance is often much cheaper and more responsible than cutting corners or waiting for things to go wrong. For example, one of the best ways to prevent roof damage is to regularly check the condition of your roof and make repairs as needed.

This may seem like a lot of work, but it’s actually much cheaper and easier than fixing a roof that’s already damaged. Additionally, regular preventive maintenance can help increase the lifespan of your property’s systems and components. So make sure to develop a plan for routine preventive maintenance tasks. This will help keep your property in good condition and prevent costly repairs down the road.

5. Maintain accurate records of all property repairs and property maintenance tasks performed.

It’s also important to keep accurate records of property repairs and maintenance tasks. Not only does this help you keep track of the work that needs to be done, but it can also serve as a reference for future property managers or property owners. Keeping detailed records ensures that all property maintenance tasks are documented and accounted for, which makes it easier to identify any potential problems or issues in the future.

By keeping accurate records of property maintenance tasks, you can ensure that your property stays in good condition year after year. This will help reduce the costs associated with repairs and maintenance, as well as ensure that your property remains a safe and comfortable place to live.

6. Have a plan in place for maintenance emergencies.

No matter how well you maintain your property, emergencies can always happen unexpectedly. That’s why it’s important to have a plan in place for dealing with emergencies. This includes having a list of reliable contractors who can help with repairs, having an emergency fund set aside for unexpected expenses, and being prepared for worst-case scenarios.

Having a plan in place for property maintenance emergencies can help ensure that any issues are dealt with quickly and efficiently. This will also help reduce the costs associated with property repairs and maintenance, allowing you to keep your property looking and functioning well for years to come.

Overall, property maintenance is just as important for new buildings as it is for older ones. Regular property maintenance tasks such as changing air filters, checking caulking/sealing around doors/windows, and keeping accurate records of repairs and maintenance help keep your property in good condition. Additionally, having a plan in place for emergencies can help reduce the costs associated with property repairs and maintenance. By taking these proactive steps, you can ensure that your property remains a safe and comfortable place to live for years to come.

Property Maintenance: 7 Key Considerations

As a responsible property owner, it’s important to engage in regular, scheduled property maintenance in order to prevent problems before they occur. This not only saves money and stress in the long run but also helps to keep your property in top condition. In this blog, we’ll cover some of the key aspects of preventative property maintenance, including why it’s important and how to go about it.

Have your HVAC system serviced and inspected every year

Fall is the best time to schedule a routine inspection of your HVAC system. This is because you want to make sure that your system is running efficiently before the cold winter months. During the inspection, a technician will clean the unit and check for any wear and tear. They will also check the electrical connections to make sure that there are no loose wires. By having your HVAC system serviced every year, you can prevent problems from arising and save money on your energy bill.

Check your roof for leaks and damage, and have them repaired as needed

Seasonal changes can take their toll on your roof, so it’s essential to inspect it regularly for leaks and other damage. If you notice any problems, have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Leaks can lead to water damage, which can weaken the structure of your roof and lead to costly repairs. Inspect your roof at least once a year and more often if you live in an area with severe weather conditions. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, hire a professional to do it for you. They will be able to identify any potential problem areas and make the necessary repairs. By taking these steps, you can help extend the life of your roof and avoid expensive repairs down the road.

Keep your gutters clean and clear of debris to avoid damage.

As any property owner knows, water damage can be a severe issue. Not only can it lead to costly repairs, but it can also create serious health hazards. Mould and mildew can thrive in damp environments, and excess moisture can also lead to the growth of harmful bacteria. One way to help prevent water damage is to keep your gutters clean and clear of debris. Gutters play an important role in channelling water away from your property, and the risk of water damage increases significantly when they become clogged. In addition, regular cleaning will help to prevent the buildup of mould and mildew, keeping your property healthy and safe. So don’t neglect your gutters – a little maintenance can go a long way in protecting your property from water damage.

Trim trees and bushes around the house, so they don’t damage the roof or windows

Commercial property owners have a responsibility to keep their buildings well-maintained. This includes trimming trees and bushes around the house, so they don’t damage the roof or windows. Overgrown branches can scratch paint, break windows, and even cause structural damage to the roof. In addition, fallen leaves can clog gutters and downspouts, leading to flooding and water damage. By regularly trimming trees and bushes, commercial property owners can help keep their buildings in good condition and prevent costly repairs.

Inspect the foundation of your property for cracks or other signs of damage

Concrete is a versatile and durable material that is commonly used for foundations, driveways, and sidewalks. However, concrete can crack over time due to settling, ground movement, or changes in temperature. Cracks in concrete can create trip hazards and allow water to seep into the foundation, leading to further damage. For this reason, it is essential to inspect the concrete on your property regularly for signs of cracking. cracks. If you notice any cracks, be sure to have them repaired as soon as possible by a qualified contractor. By taking proactive measures to maintain your concrete, you can help ensure the long-term stability of your foundation.

Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors

One of the most important things you can do to protect your property from fire damage is regularly check and replace the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Smoke detectors are required by law in most jurisdictions, but even if they’re not, they’re an essential safety measure that every property should have. Carbon monoxide detectors are also a good idea, particularly if you have gas-powered appliances or a fireplace. Both types of detectors should be replaced every six months to ensure they’re working properly. You should also test them monthly by pressing the test button. If the detector doesn’t make any sound, it’s time to replace the battery. By taking these simple steps, you can help keep your business safe from fire damage.

Consider contracting property maintenance services if you feel overwhelmed

Property maintenance is a big job with any property, no matter its size, or the size of your operation. If you or your team are trying to manage it all on your own, it can be a struggle. Beyond just being difficult or stressful, not every team has the time or the expertise to keep up with maintenance and their business at the same time. When you consider that proper maintenance is key to ensuring your business can run smoothly, any time you have to choose between working on your core business or your property maintenance, the end result is always detrimental to your business. Sometimes, the most responsible choice is to let someone else take the problem off your hands so that you can focus on what really matters.

Taking a few simple steps each year can help you avoid costly and potentially dangerous repairs down the road. Please feel free to contact us for a free quote and inspection to make sure your property is ready for the winter weather. We’ll make sure your HVAC system is in good shape, your roof is leak-free, your gutters are clear and more. Keep your business safe and warm this winter by preparing your property now. Or, if you’re interested in our property maintenance services, we’d love to get together and explore the possibilities for a partnership. Get in touch with us today to schedule a FREE on-site consultation.