Cost Management for Your Commercial Property

Owning a commercial property in Cape Town or anywhere else in South Africa, for that matter, can be daunting. With soaring maintenance costs, hefty utility bills, staffing expenses, and taxes, it's easy to see how quickly the financial scales can tip. But what if there were proven strategies to make this more manageable?

Optimising your commercial property into a model of efficiency and cost-effectiveness is easier than you think. This blog looks at practical and actionable tips to help you trim your commercial property expenses. 

Five Ways To Keep Costs Down in Your Commercial Property

1. Enhance energy efficiency

According to the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA), energy-efficient buildings can reduce energy consumption by up to 50%. Commercial property owners can potentially cut their energy bills in half while contributing to sustainability. Here are some tried and tested ways to enhance energy efficiency:

• Install energy-efficient lighting: Replace traditional bulbs with LED lighting, which uses less power and lasts longer.
• Upgrade HVAC systems: Modern HVAC (Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems are more energy-efficient and can reduce electricity usage significantly.
• Use smart thermostats: These devices can optimise heating and cooling, ensuring energy is not wasted in empty spaces. 

2. Schedule regular maintenance

Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your property's infrastructure. Maintenance tips include: 

• Conducting routine inspections: Inspect the roof, plumbing, and electrical systems regularly to identify potential issues early.
• Scheduling regular HVAC service: Keep a close eye on your heating and cooling systems to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
• Investing in quality materials: Using durable materials for repairs and upgrades can reduce the frequency of unexpected maintenance. 

3. Optimise space utilisation 

Maximising your space can lower operational costs and increase revenue potential. This is an easy way to cut down on commercial property expenses. All you need to do is follow these guidelines: 

• Flexible workspaces: Create flexible office spaces that can be adjusted based on the number of employees or the type of work being done.
• Subletting: If you have unused space, consider subletting it to other businesses to generate additional income.
• Shared amenities: Implement shared amenities such as conference rooms and break areas to reduce the need for each tenant to have their own.

4. Reduce utility costs 

In Cape Town, where water scarcity has been a significant issue in the past, conserving water is of utmost importance. During the 2017-2018 drought, Cape Town residents managed to reduce their water consumption by more than 50%, helping to avert the Day Zero crisis when municipal water supplies were predicted to run out. Water-saving measures include: 

• Installing low-flow fixtures: Use low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads to reduce water usage.
• Rainwater harvesting: Collect and use rainwater for irrigation and other non-potable purposes.
• Regularly check for leaks: A small leak can waste a large amount of water over time. Ensure regular inspections and prompt repairs to your commercial property. 

5. Leverage tax incentives and rebates 

Using the available tax incentives and rebates to your advantage can also help lower costs. In South Africa, there are several incentives for property owners who invest in energy-efficient upgrades and renewable energy installations. Here's how you can benefit from these tax incentives:

• Research available programs: Stay informed about national and local incentives for energy efficiency and sustainability improvements.
• Consult with a tax professional: A tax expert can help you navigate the complexities and ensure you maximise your benefits.
• Keep detailed records: Document all upgrades and expenses to support your claims.​

Maximise Savings and Efficiency in Your Commercial Property

Ready to implement these strategies to reduce costs and optimise your commercial property? Contact our property professionals today to learn how we can help you to achieve greater cost-saving efficiencies.