Top 10 Questions for Building Custodian, Managing, Supervising, Renting Interview

1. What are your key responsibilities as a Building Custodian?

• Maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the building including sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and dusting floors.
• Removing trash and debris from the building and surrounding areas.
• Checking and maintaining the building’s mechanical and electrical systems, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and lighting.
• Making minor repairs to the building and its fixtures.
• Responding to emergencies and taking appropriate action.

2. How do you prioritize tasks when there are multiple things that need to be done?

Assessing the Situation

• Determine the urgency and importance of each task.
• Consider the potential consequences of delaying or neglecting a task.

Creating a Plan

• Set clear priorities based on the assessments.
• Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

Execution

• Focus on completing the highest priority tasks first.
• Delegate or request assistance for lower priority tasks when necessary.

3. What are your strategies for maintaining a clean and safe environment for tenants?

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

• Establish a regular schedule for cleaning all common areas, including restrooms, hallways, and elevators.
• Inspect and clean high-touch surfaces frequently.

Tenant Education and Communication

• Provide clear instructions on proper waste disposal and recycling.
• Encourage tenants to report any maintenance issues promptly.

Inspections and Monitoring

• Conduct regular inspections of the building to identify potential hazards.
• Monitor security cameras and other surveillance systems for suspicious activity.

4. How do you deal with difficult tenants or visitors?

Maintaining Professionalism

• Remain calm and respectful, even in challenging situations.
• Listen actively to understand their concerns.

Problem-Solving

• Identify the root cause of the issue.
• Explore and propose mutually acceptable solutions.

Enforcing Rules and Regulations

• Explain the building’s rules and regulations clearly.
• Enforce them fairly and consistently.

5. What are your experiences in managing building repairs and maintenance?

Identifying and Assessing Issues

• Inspect the building regularly to identify potential problems.
• Document and assess the severity of any issues.

Repair Coordination

• Contact appropriate vendors or contractors for repairs.
• Supervise repairs to ensure they are completed correctly.

Budget Management

• Track repair costs and ensure they stay within budget.
• Negotiate with vendors to secure cost-effective solutions.

6. How do you ensure that the building is in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations?

Staying Informed

• Familiarize yourself with relevant laws and regulations.
• Attend industry conferences and workshops for updates.

Regular Inspections

• Conduct regular inspections to identify any potential violations.
• Document and address any issues promptly.

Communication and Cooperation

• Communicate with tenants and visitors about their responsibilities.
• Cooperate with local authorities and inspectors.

7. What is your experience in managing a team of cleaning staff?

Staff Training and Development

• Provide comprehensive training on cleaning procedures and safety protocols.
• Monitor and evaluate staff performance regularly.

Scheduling and Task Allocation

• Create and manage cleaning schedules to ensure efficient coverage.
• Assign specific tasks and areas to each staff member.

Communication and Supervision

• Maintain open communication with staff to address concerns and provide feedback.
• Supervise staff to ensure tasks are completed to the required standards.

8. How do you motivate and maintain a positive work environment for your team?

Recognition and Appreciation

• Acknowledge and reward staff for their hard work and contributions.
• Provide opportunities for growth and advancement.

Open Communication

• Foster a culture of open communication and feedback.
• Address concerns and issues promptly and fairly.

Team Building Activities

• Organize team-building activities to promote collaboration and morale.
• Encourage staff to participate in decision-making and problem-solving.

9. What are your experiences in managing a rental property?

Tenant Screening

• Conduct thorough tenant screenings to select qualified tenants.
• Verify income, credit, and references.

Lease Management

• Prepare and execute lease agreements.
• Handle lease renewals and terminations.

Rent Collection and Accounting

• Collect rent on time and maintain accurate records.
• Process payments and manage tenant deposits.

Property Maintenance

• Coordinate repairs and maintenance to ensure the property is habitable.
• Respond to tenant requests and emergencies promptly.

10. How do you handle tenant disputes or complaints?

Mediation and Resolution

• Listen to both sides of the dispute and gather all relevant information.
• Facilitate discussion between the parties to find a mutually acceptable solution.

Enforcement

• Enforce the terms of the lease agreement and applicable laws.
• Take appropriate action to address violations or disputes that cannot be resolved through mediation.

Documentation

• Document all disputes and resolutions thoroughly.
• Maintain records for future reference and legal purposes.

Building custodians are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of commercial, residential, or industrial buildings. They oversee a wide range of tasks, ensuring that the buildings are clean, safe, and in good repair.

1. Maintaining Building Cleanliness

Custodians are responsible for keeping all common areas of the building clean. This includes sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and dusting. They may also be responsible for cleaning windows, emptying trash, and removing snow and ice from sidewalks and walkways.

2. Performing Minor Repairs

Custodians are often responsible for performing minor repairs around the building. This could include fixing leaky faucets, replacing light bulbs, and unclogging drains. They may also be responsible for painting, carpentry, and other general maintenance tasks.

3. Maintaining Building Security

Custodians play an important role in maintaining the security of the building. They are responsible for locking and unlocking doors, monitoring security cameras, and reporting any suspicious activity to the authorities.

4. Assisting Tenants and Visitors

Custodians may be responsible for assisting tenants and visitors with a variety of tasks. This could include providing directions, answering questions, and helping with minor repairs.

A well-prepared interview can increase the chances of getting selected for the job. Here are some tips to help you ace the interview for a building custodian position:

1. Research the Company and Position

Before the interview, take some time to research the company and the position you are applying for. This will help you understand the company’s culture and values, as well as the specific responsibilities of the position.

2. Practice Your Answers to Common Interview Questions

There are some common interview questions that you are likely to be asked, such as “Why are you interested in this position?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” Take some time to practice your answers to these questions so that you can deliver them confidently and concisely.

3. Highlight Your Relevant Experience and Skills

In your interview, be sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills. If you have any experience in building maintenance or customer service, be sure to mention it. You should also emphasize any skills that would be beneficial in the role, such as attention to detail, problem-solving, and communication.

4. Be Prepared to Talk About Your Salary Expectations

At some point in the interview, the interviewer will likely ask you about your salary expectations. Before the interview, do some research to find out what the average salary is for similar positions in your area. This will help you give the interviewer a realistic answer.

5. Dress Professionally and Arrive on Time

First impressions matter, so be sure to dress professionally for your interview. You should also arrive on time to show the interviewer that you are respectful of their time.