What are Harland Property Management's Maintenance Procedures?
We understand one of the most common questions for potential clients is - "How does Harland Property Management handle maintenance repair requests and associated costs?" Below is an overview of our maintenance procedures:
Q: What is a maintenance limit and how does it benefit me as a property owner?
A maintenance limit is a predetermined amount of money that allows Harland Property Management to handle smaller maintenance concerns directly without additional authorization. This limit is set at $500 and is designed to address common concerns promptly for our tenants and for our owners, to prevent small issues from becoming larger problems, maintain positive relationships with vendors, and reduce costs in several ways. Furthermore, well-maintained properties retain their asset value and rent more easily. Deferred maintenance brings down property value over time. The limit facilitates regular upkeep.
For context, minor and common repairs include things like:
- Leaky faucets or running toilets
- Faulty light switches and minor electrical issues
- Broken door locks, or window latches
- Slow draining sinks or tubs
While we aim to set our maintenance limit as low as possible for cost savings, we also recognize that too low of a threshold can inadvertently increase expenses if repairs cannot be fully completed in one visit. Should we not be able to reach you for express approval, we may need to schedule second visit to complete the repair request, and in turn could incur return trip fees and duplicate administrative costs.
Q: How does a maintenance limit aid in long term tenant satisfaction?
Prompt maintenance due to the limit keeps tenants satisfied, as their concerns are addressed quickly, leading to positive tenant relationships and potential lease renewals. Tenants expect repairs to be handled efficiently. Unresolved or delayed maintenance is one of the major causes of tenant complaints and lease terminations and the limit enables a rapid response. Studies show that tenants are 3x more likely to renew their lease if they are satisfied with the property management company, and according to Zillow Rentals, "tenant retention is one of the most cost-effective strategies property managers and owners can implement."
Q: How will I be notified when maintenance is being done on my property?
Harland Property Management requires owner approval for any maintenance concerns that exceed the $500 limit. For issues falling under this threshold, we will notify the owner with a receipt detailing the repairs. Harland is also available during business hours to answer any questions regarding maintenance issues or the use of the maintenance limit.
Q: Why is a maintenance limit in my best interest?
The majority of maintenance concerns are not large issues and can be handled quickly. By having a maintenance limit in place, Harland Property Management can address the most common concerns promptly, reducing the likelihood of preventable issues growing into larger problems. This approach also ensures that vendors can assess and fix problems in a timely manner without delays, ultimately keeping the property in the best condition and reducing costs. A clear maintenance limit creates accountability on both sides.
As experienced property managers, we find this clear protocol provides owners useful updates while allowing our team to operate smoothly in tenants' best interests. We also have a 24/7 emergency maintenance hotline should any urgent issues arise.
Conclusion
By implementing a maintenance limit, Harland Property Management aims to streamline the maintenance process, oversee a timely resolution of common concerns, and maintain positive relationships with vendors, tenants, and property owners. This approach is designed to benefit property owners by preventing small issues from becoming larger problems, reducing costs, and keeping the property in the best condition, as well as benefit tenants by addressing concerns promptly and professionally.
