As a property owner, keeping your investment in top shape is a priority. A well-maintained property helps keep your renters happy, protects your asset, and can even boost the rent you receive. However, when it comes to upkeep, there’s sometimes some confusion about the difference between maintenance and repairs – and how they should be handled.
At its core, maintenance involves proactive, routine care designed to prevent issues before they arise. Think of it as the ongoing work that keeps your property in great condition – regular gutter cleaning, servicing the air conditioning, or pruning back overgrown trees.
These tasks help to preserve the property’s functionality and appearance, reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns or damage.
Repairs, on the other hand, are reactive and occur when something breaks or wears out. These are the fixes needed to restore the property or its fittings to their original working condition, such as repairing a leaking tap, replacing a broken window, or patching up a hole in a wall.
Both maintenance and repairs are essential to ensure the smooth running of your investment property – but they require slightly different approaches.
Why Maintenance Matters
Proactive maintenance is key to minimising the need for costly repairs. A small issue caught early, like a blocked gutter, can prevent a much larger problem, such as water damage to the roof or walls. Regular upkeep also demonstrates to renters that their home is well cared for, which helps build trust and encourages them to treat the property with respect.
How to Manage Repairs Efficiently
Repairs, while unavoidable at times, can be stressful for both owners and renters if not handled promptly. Quick responses to any repairs reported not only keeps renters happy, but may also prevent minor issues from escalating into larger, more expensive problems, including compensation claims.
There are strict rules in play when it comes to repairs, with legislation providing clear guidelines for recourse for renters if the issue is not rectified in a timely manner.
And from experience, we can let you know a Tribunal Member is not going to look favourably upon an owner not “fixing” an issue quickly.
Our Role in Supporting You
At the heart of successful property management is finding the right balance between maintenance and repairs. Our team is here to help you stay on top of both – coordinating preventative maintenance schedules, responding promptly to renter repair requests, and ensuring all work is carried out by qualified tradespeople. By doing so, we aim to protect your investment and provide peace of mind for you and your renters alike.
Taking a proactive approach to property care now can save time, money, and stress in the future. If you’d like to discuss a tailored maintenance plan for your property, we’re always here to help!
