Running a small business is a challenge of every day. As a business owner, you probably have a lot of things on your mind already, starting with managing profitability and positioning your brand on the market. As a result, some things may fall at the bottom of the list, such as managing your commercial property. Here are 5 of the most important tasks you need to fulfill in your office or store to keep your business up and running.
#1. Property insurance
Whether you own your commercial premises or rent them out, you will need to take on a business owners policy that provides property coverage. It will protect your building property as well as the resources and equipment on site. Your insurance provider may also share a list of essential must-haves that will guarantee compensation in the event of theft or damage, such as protective doors and windows, locks, regular maintenance, etc. Many small entrepreneurs who rent out their offices wrongly assume that the landlord is responsible for the business property insurance policy.
#2. Space decoration and layout
You must plan carefully when it comes to creating a safe and productive workspace. Indeed, functional equipment, such as desks and chairs, for your team is not enough to ensure your employees remain happy and engaged. Professional office designers consider strategies to create a space that improves the work environment, such as the addition of plants, effective storage solutions, and natural light. Wall art pieces can also increase well-being and creativity at work. So it is worth considering the best options to support your team.
#3. Accessibility
What does it mean to keep your property accessible? Accessibility is one of the most significant challenges in US companies. Indeed, there are currently over 74 million Americans with a physical disability, according to the John Hopkins Medicine statistics. They may require a wheelchair or a disability scooter for transport. Is your business property accessible for wheelchair users? This will require wide openings, plenty of space to maneuver the chair, and ramps instead of stairs.
Other individuals may struggle with digital displays in commercial properties, such as payment stations, which must be made accessible to the visually impaired population.
#4. Health checks
It may seem like an obvious one, but too many small business owners fail to create a safe space for their teams and customers. Fundamental health and safety regulations tend to focus on loose wires or slippery surfaces in offices. But you must also consider the risk of pest infestation, especially if you have a space, such as a basement or unused warehouse, that is left empty. Additionally, air condition unit maintenance is often delayed, at the risk of exposing employees and customers to indoor pollution.
#5. Greenhouse gas emissions and environmental footprint
Businesses are single-handedly responsible for the most important part of the environmental footprint. Energy waste in business properties can lead to increased energy costs and unnecessary environmental impact. As a business owner, you must make it your priority to:
- Maintain quality insulation
- Reduce energy consumption
- Optimize energy usage in the office
- Modernize equipment and solutions to cut down waste
Are you ready to manage your business building to bring your venture to the next level? From creating a welcoming decor to designing an energy-efficient space, there are many opportunities to elevate your commercial property.
