A Property Manager’s Guide: How to Successfully Manage a Commercial Property in Perth

Managing a commercial property is no small feat. From retail spaces to office buildings, commercial property management involves a high level of organisation and meticulous planning. The role of a property manager is multifaceted, and encompasses adherence to legal regulations, proactive maintenance strategies, and seamless coordination among various stakeholders, including tenants, service providers, and regulatory authorities, all while maintaining a focus on financial sustainability and tenant satisfaction.

This guide will offer insights into how to manage a commercial property in Western Australia, with a focus on the significance of working with the right partners to ensure success. 

Here at PBR Plumbing, we are here to support you in this crucial journey, with our professional commercial plumbing and roofing maintenance services.

What is commercial property management and what does it involve?

Commercial property management is multifaceted, encompassing tenant relations, maintenance, legal obligations, and more. It’s not just about collecting rent, but ensuring the property is well-maintained, safe, and appealing to existing and potential tenants. Juggling these responsibilities can be overwhelming, making finding reliable partners like PBR Plumbing for plumbing system maintenance and roof repairs a significant relief.

What are the elements of property management?

A property manager has various responsibilities, key aspects being lease management, property inspections, utilities management, security measures, and emergency preparedness, which all play vital roles in smooth property operation. Ensuring alignment with these aspects fosters a healthy relationship with both tenants and legal compliance.

What are some good strategies for fostering good tenant relationships?

Positive tenant relationships are a cornerstone of successful commercial property management. Being responsive to tenant concerns, transparent in communications, and firm yet fair in lease compliance can build trust and long-term relationships.

In turn, ensuring that the property is well maintained, and repairs are conducted swiftly and thoroughly is another contributing factor in fostering a positive relationship between property manager and tenant.

Navigating the legal and regulatory landscape for commercial properties

Navigating the legal and regulatory landscape in Western Australia for commercial properties involves a complex set of rules and regulations that property owners and managers must comply with. Here’s a more detailed look at what it entails:

1. Planning and Zoning Regulations: Commercial properties must comply with local zoning laws that dictate how a property can be used. This includes conforming to building codes, environmental regulations, and urban planning considerations.
2. Building Codes and Standards: These refer to the specific construction and design standards that commercial properties must adhere to. It includes safety, accessibility, fire regulations, and energy efficiency standards.
3. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulations: Ensuring a safe environment for tenants, employees, and visitors is paramount. Compliance with OHS regulations in Western Australia is essential to minimise risks and liabilities.
4. Environmental Regulations: Depending on the type and location of the commercial property, various environmental regulations might apply. These can relate to waste management, energy efficiency, water conservation, and pollution control.
5. Licensing and Permits: Operating certain types of commercial properties, such as those serving food or offering entertainment, may require specific licenses or permits from local or state authorities.
6. Disability Access: Compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act is essential, ensuring that commercial properties are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities.
7. Fire Safety Regulations: Commercial properties must meet specific fire safety regulations, including installation and maintenance of fire safety equipment, clear evacuation plans, and regular inspections.
8. Lease Agreements and Tenancy Laws: These govern the relationship between landlords and tenants, including lease terms, rent control, eviction procedures, and tenant rights.
9. Insurance Requirements: Adequate insurance coverage, including liability and property insurance, is often required to protect against various risks associated with owning and operating commercial properties.
10. Heritage Considerations: If the property is a heritage-listed building, additional regulations and guidelines must be followed to preserve its historical significance.
11. Tax Regulations: Understanding and adhering to tax obligations, including property taxes, Goods and Services Tax (GST), and other related fiscal considerations, is vital.
12. Utility Regulations: Complying with regulations regarding the provision of essential services like water, electricity, and sewage.

Navigating these legal and regulatory aspects can be complex and often requires consultation with legal experts, local authorities, and specialised professionals. Non-compliance could lead to fines, legal actions, and other significant consequences that can adversely affect the operation and profitability of the commercial property.

Effective facility management of commercial properties

Effective facility management is at the heart of successful commercial property operations. It extends beyond mere aesthetics, and reaches into every aspect of a property’s functionality and safety. 

Here’s a closer look at what effective facility management involves:

1. Cleanliness and hygiene

• Daily Maintenance: This includes routine cleaning of common areas, restrooms, and other spaces used by tenants and visitors. This is crucial in commercial buildings which experience a lot of daily foot traffic.
• Waste Management: Proper disposal of waste and recycling ensures environmental compliance and maintains cleanliness.
• Sanitisation Protocols: Especially important in the current global health climate, adhering to sanitisation guidelines protects occupants and creates a healthy environment.

2. Safety measures

• Emergency Exits: Regular inspections and maintenance of emergency exits and pathways are vital for occupant safety.
• Fire Safety: This includes maintenance and inspection of fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and other fire safety equipment.
• Security Systems: Proper functioning of security cameras, access controls, and alarm systems protect both property and people.
• Compliance with Regulations: Meeting local and state safety regulations and standards helps in avoiding legal complications and ensures the well-being of occupants.

3. Ensuring optimal functionality

• HVAC Systems: Regular maintenance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems ensures comfort and energy efficiency.
• Plumbing Maintenance: Timely inspections and repairs prevent leaks and disruptions. Partnering with professional experts such as our team at PBR Plumbing ensures expert care.
• Electrical Systems: Regular checks and maintenance of electrical systems prevent potential hazards and ensure uninterrupted service.
• Elevator and Escalator Maintenance: For multi-story properties, regular maintenance of elevators and escalators is essential for safety and functionality.

4. Aesthetic appeal

• Landscaping: Maintaining outdoor spaces, gardens, and common areas enhances the property’s appearance.
• Interior Decor: Regular updates to the interior decor and maintenance of shared spaces contribute to a positive image and tenant satisfaction.
• Structural Integrity: Regular inspections of the building’s structure, including roofing and foundation, prevent deterioration and costly future repairs.

5. Technology integration

• Smart Systems: Implementing and maintaining modern technologies like smart lighting, heating, and security systems can enhance efficiency and appeal to potential new tenants.
• Connectivity: Ensuring reliable internet and telecommunications infrastructure supports business operations for commercial tenants.

6. Sustainability practices

• Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient practices reduces operating costs and aligns with environmental sustainability goals.
• Water Conservation: Regular inspections and maintenance of plumbing systems, with the assistance of specialists like PBR Plumbing, can lead to significant water savings.

What is the importance of proactive maintenance?

Preventive and proactive maintenance is essential in avoiding unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. By regularly inspecting and maintaining systems, including plumbing and roofing, property managers can save both time and money. It also leads to tenant satisfaction as it ensures a conducive environment without disruptions, thereby enhancing property value.

PBR Plumbing: Your partner in commercial plumbing and roofing maintenance

A well-functioning and efficient plumbing system and a safe and functional roof are two things which are paramount for any commercial property in Perth. With over 40 years of expertise in commercial plumbing and roofing maintenance, our team at PBR Plumbing offer invaluable support to commercial property managers and to the strata industry.

Our professional team is proficient in plumbing system inspections, maintenance, and prompt repairs, reducing the risk of leaks, clogs, and other costly issues.

Preventing plumbing system disasters

Regular plumbing system maintenance is vital in averting potential disasters. Our proactive approach ensures early detection and repair of problems, avoiding costly and disruptive breakdowns. PBR Plumbing’s role in these aspects is instrumental, providing timely solutions and maintenance plans tailored to your property’s needs. We can also schedule a maintenance plan which is suitable to the needs of your commercial property.

Maximising roof longevity and performance

Your roof protects the entire property, and professional roof maintenance plays a crucial role in property longevity and protection. Our roofing expertise ensures regular inspections and maintenance, which can greatly extend the roof’s life and performance.

Ensuring the success of your commercial property through proactive management

We hope this guide has provided insight on the question; ‘how to manage a commercial property’.

The road to successful commercial property management involves effective property management strategies, and finding reliable partners to professionally carry out specific property maintenance, installations, repairs, and inspections of your property or properties.

By focusing on these elements, commercial property owners, property managers, facility managers, and business owners can ensure a profitable and smooth-running property.

Our expertise in plumbing and roofing maintenance adds a layer of confidence and support in this rewarding but complex role of commercial property management. 

Reach out to our friendly team to learn more about how we can help in managing your commercial property with excellence.