Property Management Tips to Keep Your Property Safe During Seasonal Shift

According to Vietnam Electricity (EVN), in mid-June, a severe heat wave affected the North and Central regions, with temperatures soaring above 35°C for several consecutive days. This extreme weather led to a new record in national power consumption.  

For the first five months of 2024, the total electricity output of the entire system reached 124.25 billion kWh, marking a 12.2% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Specifically, the power consumption growth rates for various sectors: residential electricity increased by 18.08%, trade - services electricity increased by 18%, industry - production electricity increased by 12.15%, and so on. Hot weather put pressure on power supply and technical systems, leading to higher operational costs.  

On the other hand, the storm season, which typically occurs from May to October in the northern region, impacts building operations concerning safety and asset protection. Poor building design can result in flooding, affecting both interior spaces and technical systems, and leading to additional repair expenses.  

Environmental factors are one of key areas affecting building operations. Developer and Management Team should make thorough predictions and plan for every scenario to ease the strain, keep costs under budget and protect property assets. 

How to keep operational costs under budget during hot season? 

• Reduce Energy Consumption 

Management Team can turn off or reduce lighting in common areas such as gardens, basements, and other infrequently used spaces. Additionally, limiting air conditioning use in these areas will further reduce energy consumption. 

To mitigate the impact of heatwaves on energy consumption, a collaborative effort is necessary. Management Team should guide energy-conserving practices for residents and tenants, such as powering down lights and electronics when not in use, maximising natural daylight hours, and keeping cooling system at comfortable yet moderate settings, ideally no lower than 26°C. This can optimise technical system, reduce costs while ensuring a comfortable environment. 

Read more: Energy-Saving Solutions for Building Operations 

• Conduct weekly performance audits and propose upgrades 

Proactive measures should be implemented to optimise building efficiency. This includes conducting energy audits to identify areas for improvement in critical systems like air conditioning and lighting. Based on these audits, upgrades will be made to incorporate energy-efficient technologies such as LED lighting and smart thermostats. Scheduling routine maintenance for HVAC systems before the peak heat season ensures optimal performance and minimises overall energy consumption. Through these combined efforts, we can effectively manage energy use during heatwaves. 

For example, in 2023, Savills Property Management Team helped Mailand Hanoi City’s developer reduce electricity consumption per area by 19% compared to 2022. Our solutions include installing motion sensors in apartment hallways, using light sensors for street lighting, and replacing incandescent bulbs with LED lights to improve energy efficiency. 

• Prepare for potential power outages 

Power outages can disrupt building operations and cause financial headaches. Investing in a backup generator ensures safety and keeps operational costs under control. A functioning generator ensures essential building systems like elevators, security, and critical lighting remain operational during outages, minimising disruptions and potential revenue loss for businesses within the building. 

• Invest in a backup generator to maintain essential building operations during power outages. 
• Regularly test and maintain the backup generator to ensure it's operational when needed. 
• Communicate a clear plan to residents and tenants about how outages will be addressed and what amenities may be temporarily unavailable.

Read more: Potential Risks in Building Maintenance Planning: A Comprehensive Checklist   

How to keep your property safe during rainy season?  

• Be Prepared: Anticipation is Key 

Prepare communication: Check weather forecasts and display warnings in advance within the building so that all stakeholders, including developers, residents, tenants or contractors can be well-informed and take appropriate action. 

Prepare emergency handbook: Develop handbook outlining solutions for rainy season and other emergencies. This should include evacuation plans, communication protocols, and contact information for key personnel. 

Prepare essential supplies: Ensure project have available stock of essential supplies like raincoats, flashlights, batteries, duct tape, sandbags, and basic tools. These will be crucial in the event of power outages or minor emergencies. 

• Minimise potential damage 

Secure outdoor items: Secure any loose furniture, decorations, or equipment outdoors that could be damaged by strong winds; Notify contractors working on the building to brace scaffolding and secure any materials that might become dislodged. 

Maintain drainage systems: Regularly check and clear gutters, downspouts, and common area drains to prevent blockages that could lead to flooding. 

Prepare for Flooding: Prepare sandbags and be ready to address flooding in critical areas such as mechanical rooms and elevator shafts, which could cause flooding and equipment damage. 

• Handle emergencies promptly and effectively 

Streamline communication: Implement online incident report form to facilitate clear and efficient communication during emergencies. This allows residents and tenants to quickly report issues, and staff can prioritise and address them effectively.

Support on-site: Train staff to handle resident requests promptly and effectively during emergencies. This could involve assisting with relocation, providing information, or addressing immediate concerns. 

Contact Savills Property Management Department in case you are looking for expert guidance in terms risk management.