How to Handle Vacant Commercial Spaces Between Leases
5 min read.
Vacant commercial units are an inevitable part of property management. Whether a lease has ended or a tenant leaves unexpectedly, what you do with that space in the interim can significantly impact your property’s value, reputation, and revenue. Proactively managing vacant commercial spaces helps reduce downtime, maintain building appeal, and position the space for a faster and more successful lease.
Here's how property managers can handle vacant units effectively between leases.
Keep the Space Maintained and Presentable
A vacant unit should never look abandoned. Keeping the space clean, well-lit, and in good repair is essential to making a positive impression on prospective tenants. Schedule regular walk-throughs to check for dust, water damage, leaks, or vandalism. Even minor issues, like flickering lights or unpleasant odours, can deter potential renters during showings. Investing in minimal staging, a fresh coat of paint, or updated lighting can help the space feel more inviting and modern, even when unoccupied.
Secure the Unit
Vacant spaces can become targets for trespassing or vandalism, especially in urban or high-traffic areas. Ensure doors and windows are securely locked and consider installing temporary security measures such as cameras, motion sensors, or alarm systems. If the property is part of a larger building, ensure security teams or building staff are aware of the vacancy so they can keep an eye out during their rounds.
Continue Essential Services
While it might be tempting to shut off utilities to save money, it’s often better to keep electricity, water, and HVAC running at minimal levels. This helps prevent issues like pipe freezing, mould buildup, or air quality concerns, and allows for immediate showings without scrambling to turn systems back on. Keeping utilities active also helps the space feel ready to occupy, creating a more seamless viewing experience for potential tenants.
Update Your Marketing Strategy
A vacancy is an opportunity to refresh your marketing approach. Update your listings with new professional photos, floor plans, and leasing incentives if applicable. Highlight features that match current market demand, such as flexible layouts, energy-efficient upgrades, or shared amenities. Consider working with brokers, leveraging local business networks, or hosting open-house events targeted at the types of businesses best suited for the space.
Explore Temporary or Short-Term Use
If the lease-up timeline is uncertain, consider short-term or interim uses that generate revenue and foot traffic. Pop-up shops, seasonal vendors, co-working spaces, or event rentals can help keep the space active and attractive without long-term commitments. Even temporary tenants can help cover operating costs while maintaining energy in the space and drawing attention from potential long-term users.
Stay in Touch with Departing Tenants
Departing tenants can be a valuable resource. Ask for feedback on the space, why they chose to leave, and what they think could improve the unit’s appeal to future tenants. If their departure was positive, they may also refer others in their network or return if their needs change. Maintaining positive relationships can lead to valuable insights or referral opportunities that help reduce your vacancy period.
Vacancies in commercial properties don’t have to be setbacks; they can be opportunities by maintaining the space, keeping it secure, staying visible in the market, and thinking creatively about short-term use. Property managers can reduce downtime and maintain their buildings' profitability and appeal. With the right approach, a vacant space becomes a clean slate and an opportunity to attract the next ideal tenant.
References
Lahey, L. (2022, December 6). What you need to know about vacant commercial property insurance. Zensurance. https://www.zensurance.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-vacant-commercial-property-insurance
Tolj, M. (2025, April 11). How to fill vacant commercial properties: Strategies for success - tolj commercial. Tolj Commercial Real Estate. https://toljcommercial.com/fill-vacant-commercial-properties/
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