Property managers who work with only trusted, quality contractors keep happy, quality tenants longer.
It’s 2:00 a.m. and the phone rings. One of your tenants has a busted hot water heater and they are not a bit happy. What do you do? a) Jump in the car and drive over to do what you can; or b) Call your trusted maintenance contractor who’s an expert and knows exactly what to do so you can get back to sleep.
This is a common scenario that points to why rental property owners know the immense value of keeping high quality maintenance contractors on board. Maintenance challenges can occur anytime of the year and property managers understand that. That’s why enlisting the services of expert, proven maintenance contractors makes sense.
Tenants appreciate rental property owners who take a serious approach to having access to contractors who know how to get the job done quickly. No tenant will be happy waiting a week to have a new hot water heater installed.
When property owners let prospective tenants know up front that property maintenance is managed with care and timeliness, it builds trust in the business relationship. It also attracts higher quality tenants who stay longer.
What does a property manager look for in a reliable, quality contractor?
Specific skills and requirements for each type of service are usually spelled out and agreed upon. The best property managers know that being selective will pay off in the long run. Negotiating cost is important and finding an agreed-upon rate from the start can keep costs in line.
Licensed contractors
It’s important that a contractor be licensed by the state and local agencies to work in their field. They will have met minimal requirements and tests necessary for compliance and will have received the specialized training and experience in their line of work.
Liability insurance
In case an accident occurs at a property, it’s crucial that the contractor be insured. Liability insurance safeguards that the company or individual can be held responsible for the accident. Property managers who don’t hire licensed and insured contractors risk being held liable themselves.
Reliable reputation
A contractor’s reputation should be well-established within the community and supported by references. If a contractor is just getting started or new to the area, the property manager should probably work with them a few times to establish a reliable work ethic.
Competitive pricing
Property owners and property managers look for a balance between the cost and the quality of the work being done. It’s a commitment for the property manager to keep costs low with regard to repairs and maintenance so that an owner’s investment is protected. Higher quality contractors usually have higher rates, so comparing multiple options is a good idea. Availability to complete the job quickly is also a key consideration.
Clear communication
Property management companies want clear communications from their contractors. If a contractor is hired to complete a one-day job without communicating their tardiness, it’s unlikely they can be relied upon. Contractors who clearly and openly communicate issues or changes to the project before doing the work is essential to building a trusted working relationship.
Cousin James Management is a respected property management company serving North Texas for more than 25 years. Over the years we have been fortunate to build lasting professional relationships with some of the best contractors in Texas. And because of our established working relationship with them, we have the advantage of lower costs when a major repair is needed. Consider working with Cousin James Management for all your property management or real estate investment needs. Contact us to discuss what we may do for you!
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