If you manage or own a multi-tenant property, you likely have a cluster or other type of mailbox on-site. Cluster mailboxes offer tenants a convenient and safe way to receive and retrieve their mail, but they require periodic maintenance to remain functional and secure. Here is the ultimate guide to maintaining your cluster mailbox. These best practices will ensure your current tenants are happy and your property remains attractive to new ones!
Let’s stress one thing: cluster mailbox maintenance includes keeping them secure and looking good. A well-maintained mailbox reduces the risk of mail theft, loss, and damage; it also offsets costly repairs and replacements. Good habits mean a better box!
First, regularly clean and inspect the mailbox. Once a month, clear it of grime and debris that has accumulated. Use a gentle cleaning solution of mild detergent and warm water. Wipe it down with a sponge, and use a soft-bristled brush to clean out the nooks and crannies. Avoid using pressure washers because the mailbox may not be watertight, and you certainly don’t want to ruin your tenants’ mail!
Four times a year, conduct an inspection, looking for rust and other corrosion. Gently sand away corrosion, apply a rust-inhibiting primer, then finish with a protective layer of paint. Observe the locks and hinges, as well. See if they’re functioning properly, and add a silicon-based lubricant if they seem stiff and creaky. If the locks and hinges are wearing out or have sustained damage due to vandalism or attempted break-ins, replace them. Finally, listen to tenants who complain about mail issues, and ask them for input on anything wonky about the mailbox.
On a larger scale, see how your cluster mailbox is holding up under the challenges of the weather, traffic, and vandalism. Structural damage, such as dents or cracks, may compromise its security and functionality. Address these issues promptly. Use a rubber mallet to hammer out minor dents. Major problems may require a professional’s help. Weather-related issues include rain that leads to rust, so give your mailbox a fresh protective coating. Cold weather and ice make it harder to open individual mailboxes, so add graphite powder lubricant to keep the lock from freezing up. If the cluster mailbox is outdoors, keep the area around the box free from snow, ice, and vegetation in order to prevent trips, slips, and falls.
If your mailbox has seen better days, consider replacing it or making a few upgrades. Old-fashioned key locks are fine, but installing electronic locks that tenants can open with a fob or app provides extra security. If your property is in an area with high crime rates, installing surveillance cameras and motion-activated spotlights add protection to the area around the cluster mailbox and make your tenants feel safer.
That’s the ultimate guide to maintaining your cluster mailbox. Follow these steps to keep your mailboxes in top condition and avoid unnecessary costs and unhappy tenants. Wall-mounted mailboxes offer many benefits, so consider installing this type of cluster mailbox on your property.
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