Editor’s Note: Landmark no longer offers Facility Management services. This article is maintained for educational purposes to help tenants better understand facility management considerations and how they impact occupancy costs. For support with your real estate strategy, please explore our current services or contact our team.
Our Recommendation for CRE Tenants in Canada:
- Inspect and maintain the roof and gutters to prevent leaks, ice dams, and structural problems that can lead to costly water damage.
- Insulate and protect plumbing, especially exposed pipes, to avoid freezing and bursting, which is a major cause of expensive winter repairs.
- Service and test the HVAC/heating system to ensure reliable building heat and prevent system failures during severe cold.
- Ensure reliable snow and ice removal, with clear pathways, parking lots, and exits to maintain safety and reduce liability risks from slips and falls. Create an effective snow and ice removal strategy. Learn more here.
- Create or update an emergency preparedness plan so everyone knows what to do in case of emergencies like power outages, heating failure, or extreme weather.
Note: Responsibilities for winter maintenance can vary depending on your lease agreement. Always review your lease to confirm which items fall under the landlord’s responsibility and which are yours as the tenant.