In addition, landlords might consider restricting meetings and gathering within the building to help stave off future outbreaks and virus spread. "Consider reduced occupancy limits for meeting spaces and indoor common areas and removing any shared equipment," says Cato. "Furniture and equipment in all areas should be removed or rearranged to accommodate social distancing requirements."

Common areas will also be off limited in the initial re-opening period. "Consider extending closures of fitness facilities. If health officials advise fitness facilities may be used safely, then consider reducing maximum occupancy limits, removing or rearranging equipment, closing common changing areas and imposing time limits to promote lower density and social distancing," says Cato. "Also consider obtaining waivers from any person electing to use the facilities, expressly assuming the risk of infection or other harm." Monitoring common areas will also include establishing maximum occupancy limits for lobbies.

Finally, some building owners may even consider conducting their own health-and-safety checks for onsite management staff; however, Cato warns against implementing the same policy for tenants. "It is not advisable to independently screen tenants or their visitors as a condition to entering the property," he explains. "Without a clear understanding of liability landlords may incur, the potential risk could significantly outweigh the potential benefits."

These changes are likely to be temporary, and landlords can loosen these restrictions in conjunction with local governments and progress in containing the outbreak. "While many amenities may remain closed for now, landlords should monitor health and safety guidelines to determine best practices for phased reopening of shared spaces," says Cato.