How to notify tenants elevator down for 6 weeks?

[Evan K.]

We have an apartment building with one elevator that's going to be down for 6 weeks early next year for modernization. Some people will not have any problem with this but there are others that may be elderly or have mobility issues where this could cause concern.

We want to tell tenants as soon as possible so they can make plans, if needed. What's the correct way to inform existing and new tenants about this work and inconvenience?

Lastly, just to be good landlords, we're planning on something like a small rent reduction for this time period as an apology.

[Greg M.]

Start by putting a note on their doors.

Dear Tenant,

In order to ensure your continued safety and meet current code standards, it has become necessary to perform extensive modernization of the elevator system in this building. Unfortunately, these upgrades will require that the elevator be inaccessible for 6 weeks beginning XX/XX/XXXX. If anyone feels the lack of a functioning elevator for those 6 weeks will inhibit their ability to live in this building, please contact building management ASAP to discuss.

Sincerely,
Landlord

Take it on a case-by-case basis for what to offer the people who complain. I'm not sure a rent reduction is the right move. You may find yourself being asked for reductions for lots of future inconveniences. Depending on your local laws, you may have to make concessions to some of the tenants. For example, if you have a person on the 3rd floor that cannot use the stairs and you have a vacant unit on the 1st floor, you may be required to relocate them to this unit during the renovations.