We live in a world where businesses can turn on lights, lock and unlock doors, and adjust the temperature, from anywhere. Smart office automation systems have gained popularity due to the overwhelming success of computer-to-computer communication. As smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices continue to advance each year, we now have access to smart technologies that were once reserved for the elite.
Smart technologies can be wired into the structure of an office building with a central control panel. They can also be added through external devices like electronic plug adaptors or standalone sensors. These automation systems create smart offices, connected over wireless networks and linked directly to a mobile device allowing users to control smart devices from an app. The smart office users benefit from added security, comfort, energy management, and convenience, all while easily and remotely monitoring their office.
Office building owners and property managers can greatly benefit from the use of smart office technologies in their rental properties. It will not only attract tech-savvy tenants who will pay higher rent for these amenities, but also to actively manage maintenance, improve security, and prevent property damage. Here are some of the leading innovations in smart office technology and the benefits for landlords and property managers.
Smart Office Locks
Common issues property managers face is providing approved access to maintenance personnel who need to work on something inside an office. Smart locks and remote access will now allow property managers to unlock an office using an app on their smartphone from wherever they are, and then re-lock it when maintenance is completed. This avoids the hassle of coordinating schedules to meet in person or having to give out keys. Remote access can also come in handy when property managers are showing an office to a prospective tenant.
Smart Office Security Systems
Smart security systems like a doorbell or cameras have gained popularity due to the fact that they allow you to monitor your office from anywhere. There are highly customizable systems that allow you to keep an eye on your office or you can pay a subscription fee to have your office surveilled by a professional service. Smart office technology can help landlords and property managers improve landlord-tenant relationships, eliminate emergency maintenance calls, and prevent expensive repairs. Not only will these tools make your job easier as a landlord or property manager, but they will attract new businesses as you keep up with the technology demand.
Smart Moisture Sensors
A smart moisture sensor can detect excess moisture and send an alert to avoid excess water damage from plumbing issues, burst pipes, or flooding. Strategically placed moisture sensors can help detect unwanted water in areas that tenants might not be monitoring on a day-to-day basis – under the sink, or in the lower level of a building. With a relatively small upfront cost, this smart technology can save thousands of dollars in potential water damage.
Smart Irrigation Systems
Smart irrigation systems help landscaping efforts and manage water usage. These systems can go beyond a programmed timer for watering lawns and landscaped areas, also monitoring weather patterns, soil moisture content, and temperatures to adjust water usage accordingly.
Smart Utilities
Technology like smart LED light bulbs, smart plugs or smart thermostats can help reduce a landlord’s energy costs and increase profitability. If you are responsible for the utilities in your office building, you can decrease your expenses and be able to actively manage energy use. If you don’t control the utilities at the property, office tenants will appreciate the opportunity to save money on their monthly utility bills, and you’ll likely attract energy-conscious tenants. When landlords are in between tenants or property is vacant, the ability to remotely control energy usage will not only save money but it will help to prevent issues like frozen pipes.
If you are looking to renovate your office building with the smart office technologies, contact Albrite Building today at 630.655.9436.