The Property Manager's Checklist Before Adding a Micro Market

Whether you end up going with EasyPeasy or another vendor, here's what's worth confirming before you sign anything for a micro market install.

Space requirements

Most micro market units need a footprint roughly comparable to a large vending machine or two, plus clearance for residents to browse and the door to swing open. Confirm the vendor will do an in-person site assessment rather than sizing off a floor plan alone.

Power and electrical

Refrigeration and card readers need a dedicated outlet, and depending on unit size, possibly a dedicated circuit. Ask upfront whether any electrical work is required and, if so, who pays for it — this is one of the few costs that can occasionally fall to the building.

Insurance and liability

Confirm the vendor carries their own liability insurance covering the equipment and any incidents tied to it, separate from the building's policy. Get this in writing, not just as a verbal assurance.

Vendor track record and support

Ask how restocking frequency is determined, what the response time is for equipment issues, and who residents contact directly if something goes wrong — it should not be your front desk.

Contract terms and exit clauses

Look for contract length, renewal terms, and — importantly — what happens if the building wants to end the arrangement. A vendor confident in their service shouldn't need a long lock-in to keep the account.

Resident communication plan

A good vendor will have a plan for announcing the launch to residents, not just showing up and installing quietly. Ask what marketing or communication support they provide for the rollout.

Board approval process

Since there's typically no cost to the building, this is usually a lighter approval than a capital expenditure — but it still helps to bring a one-pager to the board covering cost (zero), space needed, and what maintenance responsibility (also zero) looks like.