Rebuilding with Confidence: Key Tips for Managing Disaster Reconstruction

Taking ownership of a new facility is a milestone—but the work really begins the moment you accept the keys. You’re now responsible not just for occupancy, but for long-term performance, safety, and financial stewardship. At The Barton Group, we’ve guided owners through countless transitions—and here’s the checklist we wish we got at day one.

1. Walk the Site with Fresh Eyes

Before you turn everything on, conduct a full survey of the exterior, mechanicals, finishes, and user spaces. Note issues like unfinished punch lists, misaligned finishes, or accessibility concerns. Document everything and build a plan.

2. Confirm Operational Readiness

• Verify HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and lighting systems function and are maintained.
• Ensure warranties, manuals, and service contracts have been handed over.
• Confirm all occupancy permits and insurance certificates are in place.

3. Set Building Performance Targets

Define your goals for energy use, maintenance costs, and occupant comfort. Then create dashboards or KPIs. Whether it’s BTUs per square foot or tenant satisfaction scores, track it early.

4. Establish Maintenance & Inspection Cycles

From filters to roofing membranes, regular maintenance protects value. Develop an inspection calendar (monthly, quarterly, annually), assign responsibilities, and link it to budget planning.

5. Build Your Team & Communication Plan

A building isn’t managed by one person—it’s managed by a team. Confirm your point persons (owner, property manager, operations, maintenance partner). Set meeting cadence, reporting templates, and decision-rights early.

6. Plan for Change & Flexibility

Buildings evolve quicker than ever—tenants change, technologies update, codes evolve. Build flexibility into your systems: modular ceilings, accessible mechanical zones, and future-proof design strategies.

7. Prioritize Documentation & Knowledge Transfer

You’ve inherited more than brick and steel—you’ve inherited documentation and decisions. Ensure you have as-builts, commissioning reports, equipment schedules, and service logs in one accessible repository.

Owning a building is more than an investment—it’s a responsibility. With the right checklist, the right mindset, and the right team (that’s where we come in), you can move from hand-off to high-performance without the surprises.

— The Barton Group
(Owner’s Advocate & Project Advisor)