Residents Miss Their Amenities During COVID-19

Here’s what property managers can do to make their spaces feel safer

Modern-day urban professionals are looking for more than a place to hang their hat – from pools to laundry services, multi-family buildings are adding a range of amenities to entice residents, a move PwC named as an emerging trend in real estate for 2020.

A recent Office Pulse survey of professionals who reside in multi-family buildings found that before the pandemic, a whopping 78% of residents frequented their building’s amenities. After the imposition of social distancing restrictions, however, 62% of those who regularly used amenities have avoided them altogether. 

As cities reopen, many residents will turn to communal spaces once more – but they’ll expect some updates. Here are some simple steps property managers can take to ensure residents’ needs are met under new safety restrictions. 

Stay in Touch

If you’re closely following your local news for the latest happenings and guidelines, everyone will benefit. As your own pandemic response plan evolves, be sure to communicate updates and new expectations through email, clearly posted signage and by modeling appropriate behavior around the complex. 

Captivate’s large-format displays are also a streamlined solution to keeping residents informed on all fronts, with news updates from 150+ local and national providers, real time information and a building-managed custom content window right where your residents need it most. The turnkey digital service makes it simple to update your guidelines to residents as needed, while strengthening your brand and encouraging community. 

Keep it Clean

When it comes to health and safety features, the vast majority (76%) of individuals across all age groups report that hand sanitizer would make them feel more comfortable using communal spaces. Mask mandates (68%), limited-capacity requirements (65%) and temperature scanners (33%) followed. 

An effort as simple as providing protective gloves and face masks free of charge to residents who need them can boost trust, confidence and morale. Some apparel companies, including Hanes and Custom Ink, have started selling bulk reusable masks at affordable prices, and Gap Inc. just launched a B2B cloth face mask program.

Even the most well-intentioned residents may need a reminder of mask mandates or sanitizing suggestions, and a prominent display in each space will help ensure people do their part to keep their neighbors safe. Captivate | SCAN features a body temperature scanner, face mask detection and a hand sanitizer dispenser all in one kiosk, helping provide peace of mind with a sleek design in bustling buildings.