Ways to reduce water usage in commercial buildings

As water conservation becomes a top priority for the commercial real estate sector, property managers are increasingly looking for ways to reduce water usage in commercial buildings. With climate change, rising water costs, and sustainability demands from tenants, efficient water management isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity. In fact, according to the EPA, commercial buildings account for 17% of publicly supplied water use in the U.S., which presents a significant opportunity for cost savings.

Water usage in commercial buildings has a huge impact on operating costs and environmental responsibility. Managing water efficiently doesn’t just help you save money—it also improves tenant satisfaction and boosts property value. In this blog, we’ll explore practical ways you can reduce water consumption and create a more sustainable, profitable building.

Advantages of reduced water usage in commercial buildings

Reducing water usage offers immediate benefits that go beyond cutting costs. You can enhance property value and even position your building as a green, eco-friendly space, which appeals to both tenants and investors. Let’s take a closer look at these benefits.

Cost control and savings

When you reduce water consumption, the first benefit you’ll notice is a lower water bill. Even small changes, like switching to low-flow faucets, can create significant savings over time. For instance, research shows that buildings with water-efficient fixtures can reduce water usage by up to 45%.

Here are a few ways to maximize your savings:

• Install water-saving devices, such as low-flow toilets and urinals.
• Use facilities management software to track water consumption patterns.
• Take advantage of tax incentives and rebates for adopting water-saving technology.

Importance of water conservation in commercial buildings for investors

Investors are paying more attention to sustainability in commercial real estate. Water-efficient buildings are increasingly attractive because they demonstrate long-term cost savings and lower environmental impact. Tenants also appreciate buildings with green certifications, such as LEED, which often require water conservation measures.

Think about it this way: Properties that showcase water efficiency stand out to environmentally conscious tenants. By investing in water-saving infrastructure and facilities management software, you’re also investing in lower vacancy rates, higher tenant retention, and enhanced building value. In today’s market, sustainability sells.

Reduced water consumption usage in CRE

Reducing water consumption in commercial real estate (CRE) requires a multi-layered approach. From upgrading fixtures to rethinking how you manage outdoor spaces, there are several areas where small changes can lead to big savings. Below, we’ll dive into effective strategies that help CRE properties minimize water waste.

Water-efficient fixtures and appliances

The smallest upgrades can lead to the biggest impact on water usage in commercial buildings. Installing water-efficient fixtures—such as low-flow toilets, faucets, and sensor-activated taps—can reduce water use dramatically without sacrificing performance. This is just one great option to include in your building management system.

Here’s an example: Low-flow toilets now use just 1.28 gallons per flush, compared to the federal standard of 1.6 gallons. That may seem small, but over the course of a year in a busy building, this can save thousands of gallons of water. Similarly, touchless faucets help prevent water from being left on accidentally, reducing waste by up to 30%.

Landscaping and outdoor water management

Managing outdoor water usage is just as important as indoor conservation. Consider using native or drought-tolerant plants, which naturally require less water. Not only do these plants thrive in dry conditions, but they also give your property a unique and attractive aesthetic.

Here are some smart landscaping ideas:

• Switch to drought-resistant landscaping to cut outdoor water usage by up to 50%.
• Install smart irrigation systems that only water plants when necessary, based on weather conditions.
• Collect rainwater for landscape irrigation—an easy way to recycle water naturally.

Leak detection and maintenance

Leaks are one of the most common causes of water waste in commercial buildings. A dripping faucet might seem minor, but over time, it can add up to hundreds or even thousands of gallons wasted. Regular maintenance checks are key to catching leaks early before they become costly.

Smart water meters are a game changer here. These devices monitor water flow and alert you to any unusual activity, helping you catch leaks before they cause major water loss. Some systems even shut off water automatically when a leak is detected, saving both water and money on repairs.

Water recycling and reuse systems

Water recycling isn’t just for factories—commercial buildings can benefit from it, too. Greywater systems treat wastewater from sinks and showers, allowing it to be reused for purposes like toilet flushing and irrigation. By recycling water that doesn’t need to be potable, buildings can reduce their total water consumption.

Rainwater harvesting is another excellent option. Buildings can collect and store rainwater to be used for non-potable needs, reducing the demand for local water supplies. These systems may require upfront investment, but they pay off in the long term by lowering water bills and supporting your sustainability goals.

Regulations for water usage in commercial buildings in the US

Water usage in commercial buildings is regulated at federal, state, and local levels in the U.S. Understanding these regulations is key to staying compliant and maximizing your water-saving efforts. Let’s break down what you need to know.

Federal regulations

At the federal level, the WaterSense program, run by the EPA, provides guidelines for water-efficient products and encourages their use in commercial buildings. The Energy Policy Act of 1992 also sets minimum water efficiency standards for commercial fixtures like toilets and faucets.

For commercial properties, the Clean Water Act impacts wastewater management, while the Safe Drinking Water Act ensures the water coming into your building meets health standards. While these regulations focus primarily on safety, they also promote efficient water use.

State and local regulations

State and local regulations often go a step further, especially in water-stressed regions. For example, California’s Title 20 and Title 24 laws enforce strict water efficiency standards for commercial buildings. New York City requires large buildings to track and report water usage through its benchmarking program, Local Law 84.

In addition to these regulations, many states offer financial incentives to property owners who invest in water-saving technologies. Keeping up with local requirements not only ensures compliance but also provides opportunities to save money through rebates and tax credits.