If you’re a property manager, then you know that there’s a lot that goes into keeping a building running smoothly. From making sure the plumbing and electrical systems are up to code to ensuring the HVAC system is functioning properly, there’s a lot to keep track of. However, one of the most important—and often overlooked—elements of building maintenance is making sure the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems are commissioned and up-to-date.
What Happens When Systems Fail?
Unfortunately, when these systems fail, it can have disastrous consequences—consequences that may not be immediately apparent. For example, did you know that outdated or malfunctioning HVAC systems are one of the leading causes of fires in commercial buildings? In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, HVAC systems were responsible for an estimated 16,800 structure fires in U.S. buildings in 2010 alone.
Not only can system failures lead to fires, but they can also cause extensive water damage. In one case from 2012, an 80-year-old hotel in San Francisco was forced to close its doors after its sprinkler system failed, causing $1 million in damage. And if that wasn’t bad enough, the hotel was also fined $10,000 by the city for failing to properly maintain its sprinkler system—a cost that could have easily been avoided with regular servicing.
The moral of the story is this:
Don’t let your building’s mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems fail. Not only can it have disastrous consequences, but it can also end up costing you a lot of money in repairs and fines. Instead, make sure these systems are regularly commissioned and up-to-date so you can avoid any costly—and potentially dangerous—mishaps down the road.