Have your heard about how Internet giant Google is partnering with its landlord, McKinley Inc., to make several eco-friendly renovations to the building it leases in Ann Arbor, Mich.? According to reports, they’re also collaborating to build a huge outdoor rooftop deck, among other things. Representatives for McKinley, which is based in Ann Arbor, say they hope the partnership can stand as an example of what can be done between landlords and tenants to adopt renewable energy technology to enhance the workplace.
It’s an idea that makes sense from a business perspective and an environmental perspective, and it’s one that can be translated on a simpler level to smaller businesses and even residential buildings as well. If you’ve thought about making sustainable changes to your properties, why not talk to your tenant about them and see if splitting the cost is an option. The tenant has a right to refuse, of course, but if they see themselves staying put for the long term, they might jump at the chance to make a few changes that could substantially cut their utility bills and help the environment as well.
Even if tenants don’t go for such a partnership, it’s a good idea to make a list of what changes you could make to your property that would enhance its sustainability and save tenants — and you — money in the long run. Then methodically knock things off your list, starting with the least expensive and moving up toward the bigger projects. Eco-friendly changes will give your property great appeal to future tenants, and could make you eligible for special tax credits as well.
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