Top 10 Spring Priorities for Property Managers

As winter thaws into spring, commercial real estate professionals face a season of both opportunities and challenges. The warmer weather is a welcome change that brings longer days and renewed energy, but it also uncovers maintenance issues left in winter’s wake. For property managers, spring is the time to refresh buildings, revitalize landscapes, and enhance tenant experiences after months of cold and snow. It’s a seasonal pivot point where proactive efforts can pay dividends in curb appeal and tenant satisfaction.

Here are the top 10 priorities to focus on during spring:

1. HVAC System Servicing & Readiness

• Schedule seasonal HVAC maintenance to ensure air conditioning is operational before summer heat arrives.

• Change air filters, clean coils, and check refrigerant levels to improve efficiency and tenant comfort.

• Consider upgrading to energy-efficient systems or smart thermostats for better cooling cost control. Often there are incentives from the power company in your area for these improvements.

2. Exterior Cleaning & Inspections

• Power wash building exteriors, sidewalks, and parking areas to remove winter grime and salt residue. Also a great time for garage sweeping and cleaning out a gutters/drains around the property.

• Inspect and repair any façade, roofing, or concrete damage caused by ice and snow.

• Refresh exterior signage, repaint high-traffic areas, and clean/reseal outdoor surfaces.

3. Landscaping & Irrigation System Activation

• Clear dead plants, fallen branches, and debris from winter storms.

• Prune trees and shrubs to promote healthy growth and reduce hazards (e.g., weak limbs).

• Test and repair irrigation systems, checking for leaks, clogged sprinkler heads, or misaligned zones.

4. Tenant Engagement & Appreciation Events

• Host a spring tenant appreciation event such as a coffee bar, lunch, or networking mixer. Utilize Earth Day to encourage spring cleaning.

• Send a seasonal update with reminders on building amenities, security, severe weather procedures and upcoming maintenance.

• Organize wellness initiatives like on-site fitness classes, hydration stations, or walking groups.

5. Pest Control & Prevention Measures

• Conduct a spring pest control treatment to address seasonal pests (ants, wasps, mosquitos, rodents).

• Seal entry points, clean up waste areas, and eliminate standing water to deter infestations.

• Educate tenants on best practices for preventing indoor pest issues.

6. Emergency Preparedness & Severe Weather Planning

• Update and review storm readiness plans for spring thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods.

• Test emergency power systems (backup generators, UPS units, emergency lighting). Check emergency supplies, first aid, and PPE for items needing replaced.

• Conduct a fire safety and evacuation drill to ensure all tenants and staff are prepared.

7. Security & Access Control Review

• Inspect and test surveillance cameras, access card readers, and alarm systems.

• Ensure outdoor and parking lot lighting is functional to deter crime and enhance visibility.

• Update tenant keycard/access credentials and reinforce security protocols. When was the last time your EAP was updated? Does everyone know where to find it?

8. Budget Planning & Mid-Year Forecasting

• Conduct a mid-year budget review to compare actual expenses vs. projections.

• If you have not already, allocate funds for seasonal maintenance, energy efficiency upgrades, and landscaping.

9. Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Initiatives

• Optimize energy use by adjusting thermostat schedules and sealing windows/doors.

• Review water conservation practices, including irrigation efficiency and leak detection.

• Encourage tenants to participate in waste reduction and recycling programs.

10. Compliance & Safety Inspections

• Ensure fire safety equipment (extinguishers, sprinklers, alarms) is inspected and up to code.

• Check ADA compliance for walkways, entrances, and tenant spaces.

• Stay updated on new local regulations that could impact property management policies.

By focusing on these 10 key areas, property managers can proactively maintain their buildings, enhance tenant satisfaction, and reduce operational risks during the spring season. Looking for more insight? Below is a more in depth look at these topics and more!

Repair and Refresh After Winter

Harsh winter conditions can leave their mark on your properties. Now is the time to inspect every nook and cranny and address deferred maintenance. A focused spring maintenance program prevents minor issues from becoming major problems and keeps your property portfolio in top shape:

Conduct thorough inspections: Walk the property exterior and interior to spot damage. Check for cracks in pavement or foundations, leaks in roofs or windows, and any water damage once ice and snow have melted. Pay special attention to the roof (look for missing shingles or membrane damage) and plumbing (ensure pipes and irrigation lines weathered the freeze).

Prioritize repairs: Schedule fixes for anything winter battered. Potholes or cracks in parking lots should be filled early to prevent expansion. Repair any damaged signage, fencing, or building facades to restore a polished look. Don’t forget to touch up peeling paint or replace weather-worn exterior lighting for safety and aesthetics.

Clean and service building systems: Spring is ideal for HVAC maintenance, swap out filters and service cooling systems before the summer heat. Clean out gutters and downspouts clogged with winter debris to prevent water overflow. Ensure elevators, fire safety systems, and backup generators are tested and in working order after winter storms. A clean, well-maintained property not only avoids incidents but demonstrates to tenants that you care.

Landscaping and Curb Appeal Boost

With spring comes blooming flowers and green lawns, a perfect backdrop to enhance your property’s curb appeal. Landscaping is more than decoration; it’s an investment in tenant attraction and retention. A property that looks inviting from the outside can set the tone for a positive tenant experience inside. As one industry insight puts it, Attractive properties draw more customers, and a steady stream of paying customers in makes a space desirable for everyone. Aesthetic upgrades to the exterior also help increase positive attention. In other words, great curb appeal can translate into real ROI.

Revitalize green spaces: Refresh lawn areas and gardens that may have suffered in winter. Reseed patchy grass, fertilize, and schedule that first mowing of the season. Plant hardy spring flowers or shrubs for a pop of color at entrances. Even simple planters by the door or lobby can signal that the building is cared for.

Tidy up and enhance: Clear any remaining dead winter foliage or debris. Trim overgrown trees and bushes (which also prepares for spring storms) and replace any landscaping that didn’t survive the cold. Power-wash walkways and building exteriors to remove grime. Clean windows inside and out to let the spring sunshine flood in.

Boost the wow factor: Consider modest upgrades that make a big visual impact. Repaint faded trim or front doors in an inviting color. Update outdoor lighting fixtures to both beautify and improve safety. Ensure signage is clean, visible, and well-lit. A pristine, attractive exterior creates pride for current tenants and interest for prospective ones.

Enhancing the Tenant Experience

Spring is also an opportunity to renew your relationship with tenants. After a long winter, people appreciate fresh beginnings and property managers can deliver by elevating the tenant experience in thoughtful ways.

Seasonal tenant amenities: Little touches can go a long way. For instance, organize a spring cleaning or shred day event where an office building’s tenants can securely dispose of old files. In retail properties, coordinate with tenants to host a spring sidewalk sale or a customer appreciation day to boost foot traffic. In multifamily, a community BBQ or outdoor yoga session can re-engage residents. These activities foster a sense of community and show proactive management.

Refresh common areas: Breathe new life into lobbies, hallways, and other common spaces. Add some greenery or seasonal decor (think fresh flowers or a spring art installation). Ensure all heating is smoothly transitioning to cooling so tenants stay comfortable as temperatures rise. Maybe introduce a coffee cart or morning snack in the lobby on a random day as a cheerful surprise. A positive environment enhances tenant satisfaction, reinforcing that renewing energy of spring.

Solicit feedback and act: Spring can be a great time to check in with tenants about their needs. Send a quick survey or have informal chats during property walks. Are there small improvements that would make their experience better? Perhaps extra outdoor seating for lunch, or bike racks for those enjoying the weather. Showing that you’re listening and making even minor tweaks builds goodwill and loyalty. Modern property management recognizes that tenant experience is as critical as the physical building upkeep, happy tenants are more likely to renew and recommend your properties.

Spring Takeaways for CRE Professionals

In summary, spring is the season to be proactive in property management. Key takeaways for leveraging this seasonal transition include:

• Start with inspections: Identify and repair winter damage early to protect your asset value.

• Invest in curb appeal: Fresh landscaping and cleanup not only beautify but can increase property value and rents.

• Elevate tenant experience: Small gestures and improvements go a long way in tenant satisfaction and retention.

• Plan for spring weather: Don’t forget that spring can bring storms; ensure gutters, drains, and emergency plans are ready (more on that in the next post!).

By tackling maintenance and enhancements now, CRE leaders set the stage for a trouble-free summer and a property that shines in the springtime sun. A well-prepared spring is an investment in year-round success one that tenants, owners, and managers alike will appreciate.

What other priorities should a Property Manger focus on during spring?