As commercial property managers we are always looking for innovative ways to add-value to the sites we are accountable for.
When acting on behalf of investors, our role has traditionally focused on maintaining communal areas, collecting rent and managing service charge budgets. This tasking is fundamental to managing a safe and compliant property that remains well-funded and fully occupied.
Similarly, our occupier clients look to us to best represent them in all dealings with landlords, whether that involves facilitating alteration or alienation requests, or challenging service charge budgets to optimise commercial outcomes, (an increasingly prevalent priority in the current cost environment).
While there will always be a need to demonstrate best practice in these areas, we do so while simultaneously delivering more strategic value for our clients.
Landlords and tenants may sit at opposite ends of the table during say a service charge dispute, but today there is generally far more consensus regarding strategic goals related to Sustainabilty.
A topical focus area for both landlords and tenants alike, we are aware of a far greater willingness for organisations to collaborate around themes related to energy efficiency, green building design and carbon management.
Perhaps for this reason we are now increasingly oriented to unlocking ‘green value’ for our clients, in addition to delivering the more tactical, day-to-day aspects of our property management remit. Viewing client portfolios holistically and driving better engagement between parties to ensure common goals are realised, is an exciting part of our role.
As a case in point, we are able to review all EPC ratings for an investor or occupier’s portfolio and report on under-performing sites, (i.e. properties with an EPC rating of “C” or lower). Mindful of pending regulation that will prescribe minimum energy standards, we are able to partner with clients to advise on necessary building enhancements that would materially improve EPC ratings. This not only helps improve an organisation’s green credentials, but also acts to optimise energy costs and future-proof the longer term lettability/operation of a commercial premises.
This work may also be complemented by a Net Zero Carbon Audit, which will allow for a detailed review of both the general structure and installed building engineering services, together with energy consumption data and 3D thermal modelling.
Contact one of our team today to discuss your property management and/or sustainability needs.