The holidays are a time for celebration, but for property managers, they can also bring the year’s biggest operational challenges. From snowstorms and staffing shortages to delivery surges and resident events, even the best-run communities can feel the strain.
According to ShipMatrix, national holiday package volume is expected to rise another 5% this season, adding pressure to mailrooms and lobbies already bustling with guests and events. And with colder weather and more residents staying home, maintenance and communication demands also increase.
This holiday survival guide for multifamily highlights seven smart, proactive ways to prepare your property so you can keep things merry, bright, and under control.
Tip #1: Winterize Early — Inside and Out
Get ahead of the freeze before it gets ahead of you. Schedule HVAC inspections, change filters, and make sure all thermostats and building sensors are functioning properly. Insulate exposed pipes and check entry points for drafts to prevent bursts or heat loss.
Outside, trim back tree branches, clear gutters, and secure patio furniture or signage against high winds. If your property includes outdoor smart lockers, this is also the time to weather-proof them — inspect seals, confirm power protection, and follow these locker weather prep best practices.
A little preparation now can prevent major headaches once the temperature drops.
Tip #2: Plan for Snow, Ice, and Exterior Safety
Once the first flakes fall, it’s too late to start calling contractors. Secure snow-removal and de-icing services early, and confirm coverage for weekends and holidays. Stock salt, sand, and shovels before the first freeze.
Clearly mark high-traffic paths like entryways, parking lots, and stairwells. Be sure to double-check outdoor lighting and railings for safety as well. Roofs and gutters should be inspected for potential ice dams or heavy buildup.
These small steps can reduce liability risks, prevent slips and falls, and keep both residents and delivery carriers safe on your property.
Tip #3: Cross-Train Staff and Secure Holiday Coverage
Between vacation requests and vendor downtime, staffing challenges can quickly snowball during the holidays. Get ahead of it by cross-training your team. Your leasing staff, maintenance, and concierge should all understand the basics of package handling and resident communication.
Create an internal coverage schedule with emergency contacts for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC vendors. Order essential parts and supplies in advance to avoid holiday shipping delays.
With a Luxer One package system you can also implement a Luxer Liaison that will perform pre-holiday audits, staff refreshers, and remote system monitoring. This helps your property stay fully supported when teams are stretched thin.
Tip #4: Host Safe, Simple Resident Events
Holiday gatherings are a great way to build community, but they also bring logistical and safety considerations. Plan events early so you can coordinate staffing, cleaning, and setup.
Use only fire-safe lights and décor, and avoid blocking hallways or emergency exits. Keep gatherings to manageable sizes and encourage RSVPs to avoid overcrowding.
Resident events are also a perfect opportunity to share friendly reminders about package pickup etiquette, winter maintenance tips, and upcoming property updates, all while keeping the atmosphere festive and neighborly.
Tip #5: Stay Ahead of Holiday Package Piles
Delivery volumes are rising again. U.S. carriers are expected to handle more than 2.3 billion packages this holiday season, up nearly 5% from last year. That surge won’t just hit retailers as it’s headed straight for your community. Even the most advanced locker systems can fill up fast in December. Prepare overflow plans now so staff aren’t scrambling later.
- Convert unused rooms or secure corners into temporary overflow areas.
- Label overflow zones clearly and track them digitally to prevent lost packages.
- Use your property app or signage to remind residents to collect packages within 48 hours.
- Utilize temporary expansion lockers if offered by your package system vendor.
- Add a smart package locker system or an additional smart package room to handle the rush efficiently
It’s also smart to review our holiday package preparedness guide for more ways to minimize those dreaded holiday package piles.
For more insights on finding the best package management solution, download the Modern Multifamily Guide to Package Management.
Tip #6: Communicate Clearly and Often
With so many moving parts — event invites, maintenance notices, delivery alerts — it’s easy for residents to feel overwhelmed. Simplify your messaging by sending one comprehensive “holiday readiness” update by early November. Include office hours, emergency contacts, safety reminders, and package procedures.
Then, use your property’s communication tools (apps, email, SMS, and signage) for short, targeted reminders as the season progresses. Encourage residents to report maintenance issues early and provide feedback through quick surveys.
Clear, proactive communication keeps residents informed and reduces avoidable service calls.
Tip #7: Prepare for the Unexpected
Even the best plans can hit a few bumps in the snow. Set aside a small contingency fund for overtime, emergency repairs, or weather damage. Test your backup power systems and ensure all emergency lighting is working.
Run a mid-season check-in with your team to see what’s working and what needs adjustment from snow clearing to delivery procedures. Track your property’s performance data (maintenance calls, overflow volume, resident satisfaction) to inform next year’s planning.
The best holiday prep isn’t just about surviving the season, it’s about learning how to make next year even smoother.
Conclusion: Plan Early, Stress Less
The holiday season can stretch any property thin, but a strong plan, and the right partners, make all the difference. By preparing your team, your residents, and your systems early, you can keep operations running seamlessly and show residents that your community truly has everything under control.
Luxer One helps properties eliminate one of the biggest holiday pain points — package management — through Smart Lockers, Package Rooms, Temporary Locker Expansion Systems, and Luxer Liaison on-site support staff designed for high-volume, high-pressure seasons.
Contact Luxer One today to get your property holiday-ready and make this year your most organized season yet.
