3 Maintenance Tasks You Probably Forgot to Include in Your Business Budget
by William Gerard
A good operating budget includes all of a business' expenses, and that includes maintenance costs. If you're like many business owners, you may have some trouble deciding how much money to include in this category. When you're estimating your upcoming maintenance costs, items like air conditioner tuneups and garbage collection are almost always included. However, many new businesses leave out the more unusual maintenance tasks. Here are a few tasks that you probably forgot to include.
Pest Control
Whether you're located in the suburbs or the heart of the city, you'll likely have some sort of pest problem arise in the future. To deter critters, add a pest control line item to your monthly expenses. Either spray for bugs yourself or hire a company to do it for you. But don't expect your problems to end there. Oftentimes, preventative pest control just isn't enough. You may still have issues with bugs or rodents in the future, so it's best to plan ahead and budget for the eradication services now.
Flat Roofs
Don't assume a commercial roof is the same as a residential one when it comes to maintenance. While the roof on your home may only need maintenance after heavy storms or years of wear, commercial roofs usually require repairs or maintenance more often. Because most commercial roofs are flat, they collect leaves, trash, and other debris more easily than a sloped roof. This can lead to holes and leaks. To keep your roof in top shape, you'll need to keep it well-maintained, which may add a little to your monthly expenses.
Elevators
If you're lucky enough to have an elevator in your building, be prepared to pay for it. Elevators require a lot of maintenance, and you usually need proof that it's being performed correctly and on time. Elevator safety laws vary from state to state, but most areas require regular inspections and maintenance. You'll need to hire a professional elevator company for this task; it's not a DIY project. You can usually negotiate a discounted contract price with a reputable company, but you'll need to set aside the money each month for the extra expense.
Conclusion
Whatever you do, don't compare your business maintenance tasks to your home maintenance tasks because they're almost never the same. A home requires lots of upkeep, but a business usually needs even more. But don't let the extra costs get you down. A well-maintained building is appealing to customers and gives a professional appearance. The money you spend on upkeep will likely pay off down the road. For assistance, talk to a professional like RTN Roofing Systems.
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About Me
Do you know how to tell if you have problems with your flashing, loose shingles, or damaged tar pitch? Well, I didn't either until I experienced some of those issues on my own. One day, I realized that my roof was leaking and that I needed to find a solution fast. After contacting a professional roofing company, they were able to solve my troubles and teach me the signs of trouble. I want you to avoid the same types of hassles, which is why my blog is filled to the brim with information about roofing and home ownership. You never know, these tips could really come in handy!