When most people think of building maintenance, their minds jump to HVAC systems, roofing, or plumbing. Yet, for property managers and facility owners, few things cause more stress (or unexpected expenses) than elevator downtime.
An out-of-service elevator doesn’t just inconvenience tenants and visitors. It can cause compliance issues, lead to costly emergency repairs, and even damage a building’s reputation.
But here’s the surprising part:
Many of these problems start not with the elevator itself, but with the assumptions owners and managers make about what kind of service they actually need.
The Big Misunderstanding: You Might Not Need What You Think You Do
Most property managers and building owners automatically assume that any elevator issue, especially visible aging or outdated finishes, requires either:
- A full modernization or mechanical overhaul, or
- Service from a traditional maintenance provider or the original manufacturer.
But that’s often not the case.If the elevator is structurally sound and operating safely, many of the issues causing concern, scratches, worn panels, and outdated aesthetics, are cosmetic. And cosmetic issues don’t require complex mechanical service contracts or costly manufacturer upgrades.
Cosmetic Solutions: A smarter, faster option
Instead of committing to expensive overhauls or long service delays, many property owners are turning to specialized refinishing services like Elevator Refresh.
Elevator Refresh provides:
- Architectural vinyl refinishing
- Hundreds of modern, durable patterns
- Minimal downtime (most projects completed in one day)
- No demolition or permits required
Why the Right Elevator Service Provider Still Matters
Of course, when it comes to mechanical servicing, choosing the right provider is still essential.
The elevator industry is vast and fragmented. National brands operate alongside regional and local providers. Each offers different strengths, but not all are equally reliable.
Common pitfalls when choosing a provider include:
- Hidden fees for after-hours service calls
- Slow response times
- Lack of transparency about necessary repairs or upgrades
- Outdated certifications or unfamiliarity with newer elevator models
Selecting the wrong provider can lead to a cycle of short-term fixes instead of long-term solutions, draining both budgets and patience.
What Facility Managers Need: Data, Not Guesswork
Traditionally, finding the right elevator company involved:
- Asking for referrals
- Browsing online directories
- Making blind calls and hoping for the best
However, these methods rarely give insight into the quality of service or whether a provider suits a building’s specific needs.
That’s why platforms like My Elevator Service have become essential tools for property professionals.
My Elevator Service simplifies the search by offering the USA and Canada’s most accurate listing of elevator service companies. More than just a directory, it includes:
- 1,200+ service locations across 650+ cities
- Direct contact info and web links
- User-generated reviews and ratings from other building owners and facility managers
Whether you’re managing a high-rise in Toronto or a retail complex in Texas, this platform helps you Find, Connect, and Choose providers confidently.
Pro Tip: Leverage Peer Reviews
One of the most valuable features of My Elevator Service is the community of facility managers who share honest feedback on providers.
Before signing any new contract:
- Read reviews specific to your elevator brand or model
- Check how companies handle response times and emergency service
- Compare national and regional options
Your elevator vendor shouldn’t just fix problems. They should help prevent them.
Don’t Leave It to Chance
An elevator is more than a metal box that moves people up and down. It’s a core part of a building’s functionality and the tenant experience.
Before assuming what type of service you need:
- Assess whether the issue is mechanical or cosmetic.
- Choose the right provider for the right type of solution.
- Avoid overpaying for unnecessary services.
Explore your options. Read peer reviews. And consider fast, modern refinishing solutions like Elevator Refresh when appropriate.
Your building and its occupants deserve nothing less.