As hybrid work becomes the norm, office owners and managers aren’t just managing buildings, they’re managing experiences. In this new landscape, technologies that support return to office strategies are reshaping how Common Area Maintenance (CAM) costs are allocated and how competitive a building truly is.
Tenants today expect buildings that are digitally ready, secure, and seamlessly connected. But that digital readiness comes with a big question: which technologies are the building owner’s responsibility and recoverable through CAM, and which fall to the tenant?
This article breaks down where the lines are drawn, what falls in the gray area, and how smart owners can use tech investments to stand out.
CAM Eligible: What Owner/Managers Should Own (and Can Recover)
These systems deliver value to all tenants and are typically considered recoverable through CAM charges:
Connectivity Infrastructure
- DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems) to ensure strong mobile signal throughout the building
- Fiber risers and neutral-host networks tenants can tap into
- Wi-Fi in lobbies, lounges, and shared amenity floors
Access Control and Security
- Base building badge systems at turnstiles, elevators, and garage doors
- Digital visitor management kiosks and credentialing software
- Lobby and hallway sensors integrated with access systems to prevent tailgating and monitor secure movement
- Occupancy and demographic analytics that help owners/managers understand actual usage, support return to office planning, and validate operating costs
Environmental Systems
- Smart HVAC with real-time occupancy inputs
- Indoor air quality sensors (IAQ) in shared spaces
- Lighting controls in corridors and amenities
- Motion sensors that provide both energy savings and comfort
Tenant and Guest Safety
- Emergency mass notifications
- Fire alarms and first responder systems
- Elevator system monitoring and power backups
Workplace Experience Tools
- Tenant mobile apps for access, amenity bookings, and event calendars
- Usage analytics for shared spaces such as conference centers and lounges
Tenant-Owned: Tech Inside the Suite
Tenants are responsible for systems specific to their internal operations:
- In-suite Wi-Fi and LAN
- IT security including firewalls and VPNs
- AV equipment and digital signage for conference rooms
- Sensors for desks, meeting rooms, and utilization dashboards
- In-suite access readers and cameras
- Specialized HVAC or electrical systems for server rooms or high-load equipment
These technologies are not recoverable through CAM.
The Gray Zone: Shared Technology and Negotiated Ownership
Some systems sit between the tenant and the building and may be negotiated:
- AV systems in shared conference or co-working spaces may be included in CAM or billed via usage fees
- Smart building platforms (e.g. HqO, Mapped) may be management-installed, but premium features are tenant-paid
- Anonymous occupancy data used to optimize energy and cleaning is CAM eligible, while tracking tenant behavior for leasing is not
- Video analytics for safety are typically shared, but marketing insights are not
Tech That Drives Competitive Advantage
Leading owners and managers are going beyond the basics to differentiate their buildings. Even when not recoverable via CAM, they’re investing in:
- Mobile credential access and digital turnstiles
- EV charging stations and integrated parking management
- IAQ dashboards and wellness certifications
- Seamless, app-based user experiences
- Smart integration layers for tenant tech compatibility
These features attract top-tier tenants and support retention in a hybrid-first market.
Tech Investment = Strategic Advantage
If the technology benefits the entire building, it likely qualifies as CAM. If it serves just one tenant, it doesn’t. But regardless of cost recovery, strategic tech investment helps owners stay ahead.
Digital infrastructure is now a leasing lever. The most successful buildings in 2025 and beyond won’t just be smart: they’ll be clearly structured, easy to operate, and aligned with tenant needs.
This is how office owners earn loyalty, justify value, and future-proof their office assets.