Valet trash pickup has emerged as a popular amenity in residential properties, especially multi-family apartment complexes.
This convenient service used to be a luxury perk, but now is an expected feature in many communities.
Let’s take a closer look at how property managers are implementing this service and the benefits it provides.
What is Valet Trash?
Valet trash is a doorstep waste collection service.
Residents place their bagged trash outside their apartment doors during designated hours. Then, someone contracted by the property comes to pick up and dispose of it.
This eliminates the need for residents to carry their trash to a community dumpster.
Why Property Managers Are Embracing Valet Trash
Here are seven reasons that multi-family community managers are increasingly utilizing valet trash pickup.
Increased Property Value
Valet trash service can be marketed as a premium amenity.
That type of add-on can help command higher rent prices.
In competitive markets, standing out with this type of service can make a real difference.
Additional Revenue Stream
Many property managers will mandate valet trash as a service.
That means a monthly fee – for example, $20 to $40 – that is collected regularly from each unit.
It’s a stable, recurring revenue stream that increases NOI (Net Operating Income).
Improved Property Cleanliness
Community dumpsters are often overflowing and can attract pests.
Properties that utilize a valet trash service maintain a cleaner appearance.
That’s better for current residents and more attractive to prospective tenants.
Reduced Maintenance Costs
Residents dragging trash bags through hallways is a recipe for spills and leaks.
Prevent all this – and the added maintenance costs associated with it – by utilizing a valet trash service.
Improved Resident Satisfaction
A property offering value trash service usually sees higher resident satisfaction scores.
The convenience factor and the positive experience can encourage lease renewals.
Sustainability
Some providers are able to incorporate recycling.
If environmental initiatives are important to your property and its tenants, this is a helpful add-on.
Reduced Liability
By minimizing the need for residents to visit dumpster areas, especially at night, properties can steer clear of issues related to accidents or security.
Benefits for Residents
While this is a great service for property managers, tenants can also enjoy the perks.
Here is why:
Convenience
This is probably the main one for residents.
After a long day at work, walking heavy bags of trash to a smelly dumpster – in bad weather or at night – is not something that they want to do.
It saves time, and this is especially valuable for older residents or those with mobility issues.
Cleaner Living Environment
When trash is collected regularly, it provides an incentive for residents to not let it pile up inside an apartment.
That means fewer odors, fewer resident complaints, and fewer pests coming around.
Implementation Considerations
If you are a property manager considering a value trash service, here are five things to consider when shopping around.
- Service provider reputation and reliability
- Cost structure and potential return on investment
- Space requirements for doorstep collection
- Local regulations and compliance requirements
- Communication strategies (ensure participation)
The Future of Valet Trash
As the multi-family housing market continues to evolve, valet trash will become more popular – and sophisticated.
Smart technologies like collection tracking apps and automated billing systems are already streamlining operations.
It’s a win-win for property managers and residents.
As this service becomes more popular and is expected more often, properties can stay competitive, boost appeal, and increase revenue while maintaining a cleaner, healthier, more attractive community.
