Your selection of an elevator service company can make all the difference in ensuring safe, dependable transportation and minimizing risks for your tenants. Choosing the right provider boosts performance, saves on costly repairs, and minimizes downtime.
At Metro Elevator, we understand the importance of having a reliable partner to maintain your elevators. With our dedicated service teams, extensive expertise and tailored solutions, we’re here to ensure your elevators are running smoothly.
Here’s a guide on what to look for when it comes time for you to choose an elevator service company:
1. Check the Safety Records When You Choose an Elevator Service Company
Safety is the top factor when selecting an elevator service company. Choose a service specialist with a track record of ensuring safety and you’ll open your elevators' doors to the public in full confidence. Ask the potential provider about their technicians’ licenses and certifications, as well as any OSHA recordables.
Read through service provider reviews, and ask for the contact information of current and previous clients.
2. Consider the Breadth of Service Offerings
Spend some time researching each candidate’s service offerings to get a sense of what they offer. No two elevator service providers offer the exact same services. Aside from preventative maintenance and troubleshooting, elevator service providers sometimes also offer repairs, installation, code compliance and more.
3. Does the Service Provider Provide Cost Transparency?
A hidden or surprise additional cost is the last thing you should have to deal with after hiring an elevator service company. Read through the online reviews to determine if the candidate you have in mind provides cost transparency. Ask the candidate for an all-inclusive quote in writing.
Above all, directly ask each prospective elevator company if their quotes include the entirety of all costs related to your elevator’s servicing, repair or maintenance. If you suspect there are hidden costs or costs that will be added after the initial bill, do not hesitate to ask for a written contract for both parties to sign before the start of work.
4. ‘Round the Clock Service
Elevators have the potential to malfunction at the worst possible times, be it early in the morning or late at night. The best elevator service providers offer emergency repairs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week throughout the entirety of the year without exception for holidays or any other reason.
Responsiveness is key in the elevator industry. Choosing an elevator service company like Metro Elevator means round-the-clock support and being able to rest easy knowing an expert will arrive as soon as possible after one of your elevators is stuck or malfunctions. This is the peace of mind every business owner and manager deserves. When you call Metro Elevator, we answer!
Be aware that some elevator service providers retain the option to hire subcontractors. If the service provider is excessively busy, it might choose to outsource your maintenance or repair project to another specialist. Be sure to double-check with the company representative before hiring to guarantee they are willing to service your elevators instead of an unproven third party.
5. Fully Customized Solutions Including Individualized Service for Your Business
The best elevator service companies are willing to tailor solutions to each client’s unique needs including the type of building, usage frequency, existing issues and elevator design. The company will provide an adequate amount of technicians to allow each route mechanic enough time to thoroughly inspect each elevator and provide preventative maintenance. Your elevator problem is likely somewhat unique, so it requires a customized solution.
In contrast, large companies tend to provide formulaic solutions without attention to detail as they are overloaded with job orders. Moreover, some large enterprises are also elevator manufacturers that have an inherently limited solution set. The sales professionals at such companies tend to upsell products and solutions limited to their specific brand in place of non-proprietary equipment that might be a better solution for you and your building.
6. A Willingness to Offer a Comprehensive Contract
Though a contract is not always necessary for minor repairs, it is in your interest to request one and to fully understand the terms and length of the contract. The contract should detail the cost of service and what is included. Be aware that elevator service companies tend to have different contract templates for specific types of work.
Most elevator service companies will provide different levels of service, depending on your budget. “Oil & Grease” contracts tend to provide the basics needed for maintenance and do not include any repairs.
Some contracts provide full service, which includes “oil & grease”, as well as minor repairs. These tend to be more expensive on a monthly basis. Your elevator service provider should work with you to determine the best contract that’s right for you and fits within your budget. Transparency is key, so make sure you understand the terms and what’s included.
7. A Fit for Your Building’s Specific Needs
Elevators are distinct in terms of size, design, underlying technology and other nuances. The solution optimal for the elevators at the business next to yours might not be suitable for your elevators. Ensure the elevator service provider considers your company’s design, traffic capacity, compliance requirements and other details before committing.
As an example, office buildings typically have a maximum elevator weight limit of a couple thousand pounds. In contrast, industrial buildings’ elevators typically carry upwards of 5,000 or even 6,000+ pounds. At Metro Elevator, we conduct an in-depth assessment of your elevators’ specifications, such as weight capacity, technology and compliance requirements, to ensure that we’re providing tailored solutions for your building needs.
8. Adherence to Safety Standards
Check the company’s precautions and standards for safety before hiring. The company should be certified. If you question whether the service provider adheres to safety standards and guidelines required by law, do your due diligence. Take a look at the service provider's website for more information. Do not hesitate to ask the service provider for references from current and previous customers for verification.
9. Technician Quality Matters
Does the service provider have skilled, well-trained and experienced technicians? If the company’s technicians lack experience or training, they will likely make a mistake that jeopardizes the safety of your elevator riders. Ask for proof of technician training, skill and experience before you choose an elevator service company.
The industry’s best have the training necessary to perform comprehensive inspections that gauge the safety of elevator interiors, doors, cables and additional components, each of which is integral to rider safety.
Metro Elevator’s technicians are trained through the National Elevator Industry Education Program (NEIEP), the highest standard in the trade, and are also members of the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC).
10. Proprietary vs. Non-Proprietary Equipment
Gain an understanding of whether the elevator service company uses or services proprietary or non-proprietary equipment, before a new installation, modernization, or repair.
Proprietary elevator systems are made by the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). These systems often feature advanced technology, are easy to install, and offer many benefits that appeal to building owners and managers.
Non-proprietary elevator systems use parts and software from other manufacturers. This allows the elevator technician to find the best and most cost-effective solution for your elevator system, saving you time and money.
Metro Elevator is fully equipped to repair or modernize both of these systems, ensuring that your building remains operational.
Consider Metro Elevator When Choosing an Elevator Service Company
Choosing the right elevator service company can significantly impact your building’s efficiency, safety and tenant satisfaction. Metro Elevator’s commitment to safety, transparency and tailored solutions ensures we provide top-notch service across all aspects of elevator maintenance.
Contact us today to learn how we can elevate your building’s performance and provide peace of mind for your tenants.
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Allyn Ann Campbell is the Vice President of Metro Elevator Central Texas, bringing over 11 years of experience to her role. Learn more about Allyn Ann and her team.