4 steps to become an awesomely efficient property manager
Successful energy efficiency isn’t so hard
Energy efficiency is critical in this day and age to managing costs. Achieving it has been historically difficult in the multifamily sector. Nowadays, however, tools are being developed primarily for multifamily. Property managers no longer have the same excuses to avoid sustainability.
But. Besides obtaining energy managing tech, how does one pursue energy efficiency? And how does one do so successfully?
Here are 4 steps to become effectively energy efficient on your property.
1. Collect data
This first step is the most important. It may seem obvious, but in order to become more efficient, you first have to know your use habits. Collect data on your current energy use, and create a baseline.
You can perform an energy audit. Or, contact your utility provider. Or, you can install third party energy information or managing technology.
2. Interpret data and set goals
Once you have your baseline, you can compare to similar buildings (which is done for you with energy information or managing tech). Then, you can begin to set realistic energy goals, or SMART goals.
SMART. Specific. Measurable. Achievable. Realistic. Time-bound.
3. Engage
This step mingles with the previous. Make sure to engage employees about your energy use goals, and work together to make them SMART.
But don’t stop there. Engage your residents, too. Let them know about the changes you’re making, why, and what you hope to achieve. Residents these days are encouraged by brands that pursue efficiency. And, by stating your own goals, you can inspire your residents to make changes of their own.
Who doesn’t like happy, engaged residents?
4. Take action
Now that you’ve got a baseline, set goals, and everyone is aware, it’s time to take action. Possible steps include:
Pursuing automation (lights, heating, etc.)
Using installed third party energy tech
Changing inefficient behavior patterns
And more.
Secret Step 5. Repeat
Successful energy management doesn’t stop with one round of effort. Once you take actions to pursue energy efficiency, you have to collect data, set new goals, engage, and take actions again. The grind never stops.
But, it’s always worth it.
