Maintenance and repairs is one of the most important aspects of being a landlord. If things such as leaky taps and faulty appliances aren’t fixed in a timely manner, it can damage the relationship with your tenants and cause more costly issues in the future. Establishing a process to handle maintenance requests is critical to keeping your property in top condition and ensuring your tenants look after your place. Keep reading to learn how to handle maintenance requests from your tenants.
Have a process for organising repairs and maintenance requests
Let’s say a tenant notices their bathroom tap is leaking. They call the property manager but reach their voicemail. After leaving a voicemail, the tenant emails the property manager to inform them of the leaking tap. Seven days later, the tenant finally receives a response letting the tenant know that a plumber will be arranged. By this time, the leaking has worsened, and the whole tap needs to be replaced.
Delays such as the example outlined above often happen in property management, so it’s important to establish a process for addressing repairs and maintenance requests from the outset. Of course, a good property manager will already have effective systems, but providing specific permissions can speed up the process too. Consider options such as authorising the property manager to organise any repairs and maintenance requests under a certain dollar amount without first needing to call you for approval.
Get a few quotes for each job
If your property manager has a preferred handyman that can make minor repairs around your property for a fair price, this is often a great, straightforward option. But for those bigger jobs, it’s worth getting a few quotes. Your property manager should provide you with a range of quotes and standard pricing for larger repairs, so that you can pick the best option.
Be proactive
Property investors typically spend over $2,500 per year on maintenance and repairs on each property. To avoid unexpected and large maintenance expenses, your property manager should schedule regular inspections to spot early signs of things that may need fixing. Booking annual and seasonal maintenance jobs such as pest inspections and gutter cleaning can also help to prevent more costly problems down the track.
Being poactive with repairs and maintenance helps all parties involved in a rental property get the best outcome. You have the funds to pay for requests and preventative maintenance. Your property manager can effectively handle maintenance requests. And your tenants have a property that is well maintained. Keep the steps in mind above to ensure the process for handling maintenance and repairs at your property is effective.
Remember, this blog is general in nature and is not financial or legal advice. Please consult your professional financial and legal advisors before making any decisions for yourself.
