BY STEPHEN ELBAZ, nyarm
BY STEPHEN ELBAZ, nyarm
Managers should be gearing up their properties for the upcoming heating season. Many heating firms are offering specials on vacuum cleaning and most will survey your heating plants at no charge. Even though it's hot outside, remember heating season starts October 1st.
PREPARE FOR UPCOMING WEATHER
This is also a great time to send out your gas-powered snow blowers for a tune up and maintenance.
Buildings with leaders and gutters should inspect the gutter guards (or install them) to insure that they properly prevent leaves and other debris from clogging the water drainage. An upper west side building received a DHCR rent reduction for clogged and missing gutters.
ENERGY EFFICIENT LIGHTING
We have seen a lighting revolution over the last several years. Buildings that have converted from incandescent to fluorescent and other types of lighting are seeing significant savings in electricity costs. With Con Edison imposing surcharges of 40 percent plus, now is a great time to look at alternative lighting sources. Buildings will also see a tremendous labor savings. A standard incandescent light bulb must be changed every 40-60 days, while a compact fluorescent can last five to seven years.
ELEVATOR REPORTS
Elevator self-inspection reports should be filed with the NYC Department of Buildings in September. You can contact DOB at 212-312-8000.
September is also a great month to clean out any accumulated debris from your basements and yards.
Stephen Elbaz, nyarm, is Secretary of NYARM and President of Esquire Management Corporation - a full service management company in New York and New Jersey. Readers are encouraged to contact Stephen at 718-623-2300 or fax 718-623-2322 with real estate management questions.
