Property managers oversee numerous aspects of the properties placed in their charge. Between vetting applicants, collecting rent, managing 3rd party services and payments, as well as everything else included in caring for a real estate property, the burden can be heavy. And that’s without even mentioning perhaps the biggest responsibility of property managers: making sure that the building and grounds are safe.
There are all kinds of employees needed for multi-tenant properties such as apartment complexes, condos, and retirement or assisted living communities. Staying safe as a property manager requires attention to both the big and small details. Here are 5 suggestions to help keep your property safe and secure:
1. Regular Maintenance and Safety Inspections
There are countless potential safety hazards possible at any property. Just a few include structural issues, loose handrails for steps/stairs, leaky pipes/water sources, and faulty wiring. Creating a strict schedule for performing routine inspections is a proactive way to stay on top of any existing or developing concerns.
A thorough evaluation of parking lots, common areas, elevators, and fire escapes should be a common and regular occurrence. Also, any equipment or machinery that is used on the property should be tested and, if necessary, recalibrated regularly. Any issues found should be dealt with promptly and properly.
2. Accident/Emergency Response and Prep
Any good property manager will have a clear-cut, easy-to-execute plan in place for any type of accident or emergency that might arise. Workers should be well-rehearsed in these procedures should an incident occur. Among the most common accidents that take place on these types of properties are slips and falls, either from wet/slippery ground or from up on ladders.
Lacerations from various tasks or tools/equipment also happen frequently. Making sure that employees are properly trained in how to perform said tasks and use the equipment properly will drastically reduce the likelihood of accidents.
3. Increased Safety Measures
Implementing enhanced safety features is a great idea for staying safe as a property manager. A few examples include:
- Having employees check in before, during, and after certain tasks
- Using a “buddy system” for higher-risk tasks
- Instilling comprehensive training programs and certification
- Prohibiting earbuds, music players, and recreational phone use
- Requiring regular housekeeping of work areas
4. Open Lines of Communication
Property managers must be certain that employees have easy access to them in order to alert them to any issues that may need their attention. With so much on your plate, it’s perfectly understandable how some things might slip your attention.
However, when it comes to safety on your property, there are no excuses for missing a potential hazard. Always make time for anyone who has concerns about something that is or could become a safety issue.
5. Complying with Regulations
Staying up-to-date on municipal, state, and federal safety regulations is also the responsibility of property managers. Making sure that your buildings comply with all guidelines and safety codes is not only important for keeping your property safe, it is also a legal obligation.
Overall Importance of Staying Safe as a Property Manager
Safety isn’t just a set of rules, it’s a culture. By prioritizing these and other helpful tips, you can make sure your employees, vendors, and any other guests remain safe when visiting or residing at your property.