A well-maintained property not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and comfort of residents, tenants, and visitors. In a corporate setting, where multiple owners or tenants share common spaces, regular external cleaning is essential for preserving the property’s value and maintaining a pleasant living environment. From high-rise buildings to residential complexes, external cleaning of shared areas is critical for both appearance and upkeep.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of body corporate external cleaning, the services provided, and how to choose the right cleaning company for your building’s needs.
Body corporate external cleaning in Brisbane refers to the cleaning and maintenance of common areas that are outside of individual properties in a multi-unit complex, such as residential apartments, townhouses, and commercial properties. These areas include exterior windows, balconies, facades, walkways, entrances, parking lots, and communal gardens.
For properties managed under a body corporate arrangement, external cleaning is a shared responsibility. It helps maintain the cleanliness, safety, and aesthetics of the building while also ensuring compliance with regulations set by the body corporate.
The Importance of Body Corporate External Cleaning
1. Aesthetic Appeal
The external appearance of a building is the first impression visitors, residents, and potential tenants or buyers will have. Clean, well-maintained external spaces create a welcoming and attractive environment. On the contrary, dirty exteriors, such as stained windows, accumulated dirt on walls, and overgrown gardens, can make a building look neglected and unappealing. Regular external cleaning keeps the property looking fresh and inviting, improving its overall aesthetic value.
2. Health and Hygiene
External cleaning isn’t just about appearances—it also helps maintain a healthy and hygienic environment. Over time, dirt, dust, and environmental pollutants such as bird droppings, pollen, and algae can accumulate on building surfaces. These contaminants can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause respiratory issues and other health concerns for residents and visitors. Regular cleaning reduces the risk of harmful allergens and bacteria, ensuring a safe environment for everyone.
3. Preservation of Property Value
Buildings that are regularly cleaned and maintained tend to retain their value better than neglected properties. For properties under a body corporate agreement, this means that all owners and tenants benefit from a well-maintained property. Regular external cleaning helps preserve the building’s structural integrity, as it prevents the buildup of substances that can damage surfaces over time. For example, bird droppings and salt deposits can erode surfaces if left untreated, leading to costly repairs.
4. Safety Considerations
External cleaning is not just for cosmetic purposes; it is also crucial for safety. Over time, moss and algae can build up on surfaces like walkways, parking lots, and staircases, creating slippery conditions that could lead to accidents. Regular cleaning of these areas helps eliminate any safety hazards and ensures that common spaces are free from debris and obstacles.
5. Compliance with Body Corporate Regulations
Many body corporate agreements have specific maintenance and cleaning standards that need to be followed. Regular external cleaning ensures that the property complies with these standards and prevents any potential fines or legal issues. In addition, many cities or local councils have regulations that require building owners to maintain certain safety and cleanliness standards, such as removing hazardous waste or keeping the exterior free of debris.
Types of Body Corporate External Cleaning Services
External cleaning for body corporate properties covers a wide range of services that are essential for maintaining the overall cleanliness, safety, and appearance of the property. Here are some of the common types of external cleaning services:
1. Window Cleaning
Windows are often one of the most visible aspects of a building’s exterior, and keeping them clean is crucial for maintaining curb appeal. For high-rise buildings or multi-story apartments, window cleaning can be a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. Professional window cleaning services can ensure that windows are spotless and streak-free, enhancing the building’s overall look.
2. Pressure Washing
Pressure washing (or power washing) is a highly effective cleaning method used to remove dirt, grime, and stains from hard surfaces. It is commonly used on facades, driveways, walkways, parking lots, and exterior walls. Pressure washing is particularly useful for removing built-up dirt, moss, and algae from surfaces that are otherwise difficult to clean manually.
3. Facade Cleaning
The façade of a building is one of its most prominent features and plays a significant role in its overall appearance. Over time, facades can accumulate dirt, pollutants, and algae growth, which can affect the aesthetic appeal of the property. Facade cleaning involves using specialized cleaning agents and equipment to safely and effectively clean the exterior surfaces of the building.
4. Gutter Cleaning
Gutters are essential for proper water drainage, and when they become clogged with leaves, twigs, and debris, they can cause water damage to the property. Gutter cleaning is an important part of external cleaning services, as it helps prevent blockages and ensures the proper functioning of the gutter system. This service typically includes clearing debris and performing necessary repairs to avoid water damage to the property.
5. Roof Cleaning
The roof is one of the most critical parts of any building, and maintaining it is essential for the long-term durability of the structure. Roof cleaning services involve removing dirt, moss, and algae from the roof surface. If left untreated, these contaminants can damage the roof, leading to leaks and expensive repairs. Regular roof cleaning ensures that the roof remains in good condition and free from harmful substances.
6. Car Park and Driveway Cleaning
Car parks and driveways are high-traffic areas that accumulate dirt, oil stains, and other debris. Cleaning these areas is important for both aesthetics and safety. A professional cleaning service will use specialized cleaning equipment to remove stains, clean the surface, and maintain the area’s functionality.
7. Garden and Outdoor Area Cleaning
For corporate properties that include shared gardens, lawns, or outdoor spaces, maintaining these areas is essential for both aesthetic and environmental purposes. Cleaning services for outdoor areas may involve pruning, lawn care, and general landscaping maintenance, such as removing weeds and debris.
How to Choose the Right Body Corporate External Cleaning Service
Choosing the right cleaning company for your body corporate property is essential to ensure that your external areas are properly maintained. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
1. Experience and Reputation
Look for a cleaning company that has experience working with body corporate properties and a strong reputation for delivering high-quality services. You can check online reviews or ask for references from other property managers to get an idea of the company’s reputation and reliability.
2. Licensing and Insurance
Ensure that the cleaning company is fully licensed and insured. This protects you from liability in case of accidents or damage during the cleaning process. Insurance coverage is especially important when working with high-rise buildings or when performing tasks such as pressure washing.
3. Specialized Equipment
For certain tasks like high-rise window cleaning or pressure washing, the company should have specialized equipment. Make sure the company uses modern, well-maintained tools to ensure a thorough and safe cleaning job.
4. Range of Services
Choose a cleaning company that offers a comprehensive range of services. A company that can handle all aspects of body corporate external cleaning, from window cleaning to pressure washing and gutter cleaning, will ensure that your property is well-maintained across all areas.
5. Regular Maintenance Plans
It’s a good idea to choose a company that offers regular maintenance plans, allowing you to schedule recurring cleaning services. This ensures that your property remains clean year-round and reduces the likelihood of neglect or buildup of dirt and debris.
Conclusion
Body corporate external cleaning plays a significant role in the overall maintenance and appearance of shared properties, such as apartment complexes, townhouses, and commercial buildings. Regular cleaning of external surfaces enhances the aesthetic appeal, maintains health and hygiene, preserves property value, and ensures safety. By hiring a professional cleaning service, you can ensure that all aspects of your building’s exterior are taken care of and that your property remains in excellent condition.
If you’re a property manager or part of a body corporate association, investing in regular cleaning services for common areas is essential for the long-term success of your property. Be sure to choose a reputable, experienced cleaning company to ensure that your building receives the best care and attention.
