Discuss the importance of clear communication between landlords, tenants, and maintenance staff.
Suggest methods for effective communication, such as dedicated maintenance request portals or apps.
Let tenants know of upcoming maintenance ahead of time, and when possible, consider their schedules when planning construction work. For example, If the in-laws are coming to visit this weekend, try to get the railing on their balcony fixed the week prior, or push the sanding and staining job on their stairs to the following week. Consideration for their schedules around disruptive maintenance, benefits the odds of tenant retention and could result in them coming to you with concerns more frankly and frequently, which is great feedback for continuing upgrades and renovations.
Maintenance Management Platforms: Use digital platforms that allow tenants to report issues, track maintenance requests, and receive updates in real-time. This transparency reduces uncertainty and enhances tenant satisfaction.
Smart Access Control Systems: Implement a smart access control system that logs and monitors all entries and exits of maintenance personnel. Tenants can be notified via an app or email when maintenance staff are on-site, providing transparency and peace of mind. This system ensures that tenants are aware of who is entering their building and when, which is especially important when work needs to be done inside individual units.
Visitor Logs and Notifications: Maintain a digital visitor log where tenants can see when maintenance staff or contractors were on the property. This log can be accessed by tenants to track past visits and anticipate future ones, reducing uncertainty and fostering trust between tenants and management.
Smart Upgrades: Invest in technology that not only improves the property’s value but also the tenant experience. Smart home devices like keyless entry systems or smart thermostats can make daily living more convenient and appealing.
Staggered Maintenance: In multi-unit buildings, it’s crucial to coordinate maintenance activities in a way that minimizes disruption across all units. Stagger repairs or upgrades, especially in shared spaces like lobbies, elevators, or laundry rooms, to ensure that not all residents are impacted simultaneously.
Zone Scheduling: Divide the property into zones and schedule maintenance work in one zone at a time. This approach ensures that other areas of the property remain unaffected, allowing tenants to continue their daily routines with minimal disturbance.
Rent Discounts or Perks: Consider offering small incentives for tenants who are flexible with maintenance schedules or who agree to major work being done while they are away. This could be in the form of a rent discount, a gift card, or even a complimentary service.
Cover accommodations: If it needs to be done, consider paying for a night or two at a local hotel during major renovations like flooring or bathroom renovations.
A Practical Guide to Safeguarding Tenants and Properties During Emergencies, and Essential Tips for Developing Crisis Response Plans in Multifamily Housing
InstaShow’s approach to charging a $5 fee for tours provides landlords with a competitive edge, ensuring a more efficient and secure showing process.
With renter fraud and seller impersonation schemes running rampant, property managers and landlords are reporting more run-ins with trespassers and squatters than ever. While we’re still waiting on solid statistics, the amount of anecdotal evidence is overwhelming.
