When maintenance operations run smoothly, everyone feels the impact. Properties last longer. Residents stay longer. And your business becomes more profitable and scalable. The challenge, of course, is achieving long-term maintenance success.

Let’s break down why strong property maintenance operations aren’t just nice to have. They’re a non-negotiable piece of a successful property management strategy.

Long-Term Maintenance Success Protects More Than Just Buildings

Properties are investments. Whether you manage ten units or ten thousand, the goal is the same: protect the value of those assets. Preventive maintenance plays a huge role in this. Regular HVAC servicing, plumbing checks, roof inspections, and seasonal prep work all help avoid expensive breakdowns and extend the lifespan of property systems.

By keeping up with small repairs and routine tasks, you avoid the surprise costs and resident frustration that come with emergency fixes. You also make sure your properties remain attractive to current residents, prospective renters, and potential investors.

Great Maintenance = Happy Residents

Here’s the thing: most residents don’t renew their lease because of rent price. They renew because their experience feels stable, professional, and respectful. And nothing says “we care” quite like showing up quickly when something goes wrong in their home.

When maintenance teams respond fast, communicate clearly, and actually solve the issue, residents feel heard. That kind of service builds trust—and trust leads to renewals. On the other hand, delayed or poorly handled repairs are one of the biggest drivers of turnover. That turnover means more time spent on marketing, leasing, and make-readies—and less time focused on growing your business.

Maintenance Impacts Your Bottom Line

Let’s talk numbers. Long-term maintenance success leads to measurable financial benefits:

• Higher Net Operating Income (NOI): Preventive maintenance cuts operating costs, keeps expenses predictable, and reduces emergency repair bills.

• Increased property value: Well-maintained properties show better, attract more attention, and command higher rents.

• Lower turnover costs: More renewals mean fewer leasing fees, fewer renovations, and less time sitting vacant.

This is where maintenance shifts from a cost center to a profit driver. When your operations are dialed in, maintenance becomes one of the most powerful tools for building a healthier business.

Legal Compliance and Risk Reduction Start with a Strong Maintenance Plan

No one wants to be on the receiving end of a lawsuit, code violation, or news story about unsafe living conditions. A solid maintenance program keeps you in compliance with local codes and health and safety regulations. It also creates the paper trail you need to show you’ve done your part.

This matters. Proper documentation of repairs, response times, and scheduled inspections isn’t just good practice, it’s protection. It helps you reduce legal exposure, avoid fines, and defend yourself if something does go wrong.

Technology Has Changed the Game

If your team is still relying on spreadsheets, whiteboards, or email chains to manage work orders, it’s probably costing you more than you realize. Manual processes lead to missed requests, inefficient scheduling, and poor communication. They also make it harder to see what’s really working across your maintenance operation.

That’s where Property Meld comes in.

Property Meld simplifies maintenance from start to finish. From scheduling and technician routing to resident messaging and performance analytics, everything lives in one place. You get real-time updates, automated workflows, and insight into your team’s performance without chasing down details or waiting for status updates.

And because Property Meld integrates with the systems you already use like, Rent Manager, AppFolio, and Buildium, it fits naturally into your existing operation. No massive disruption, just better maintenance.

Long-Term Success Starts with Maintenance

If you’re aiming to grow your property management company, improve resident retention, and reduce legal risk, strong maintenance operations are one of the smartest places to invest.

It’s not just about repairs. It’s about giving your team control, giving your residents confidence, and giving your business a platform for growth.

When maintenance is handled well, everything else gets easier.

Want to see what great maintenance operations look like? Book a demo with Property Meld and take the first step toward making maintenance your competitive advantage.

The post Why Property Maintenance Operations Are Essential for Long-Term Success appeared first on Property Meld.

The Crucial Role of Maintaining Rental Properties with Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance involves regular, scheduled tasks aimed at preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems. This proactive approach is essential for several reasons:

 1. Preserving Property Value

Properties are significant investments, and like any investment, they require consistent attention to retain their value. Regular upkeep ensures that all aspects of the property, from the HVAC systems to the plumbing and electrical setups, function optimally. This not only preserves the property’s market value but can also enhance it over time.

 2. Enhancing Resident Satisfaction

Residents appreciate living in well maintained properties. Regular maintenance activities, such as changing air filters, inspecting and servicing appliances, and checking for potential safety hazards, contribute to a comfortable and safe living environment. Happy residents are more likely to renew their leases, leading to higher retention rates and reduced turnover costs.

 3. Reducing Emergency Repairs

One of the primary benefits of preventative maintenance is the reduction in emergency repairs. By addressing potential issues before they become significant problems, property managers can avoid the high costs and stress associated with urgent fixes. This proactive approach leads to smoother operations and less downtime for both residents and maintenance teams.

Property Managers Responsibilities in Preventative Maintenance

Property managers play a pivotal role in the implementation of preventative maintenance. Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks, all aimed at ensuring the property remains in top condition and residents are satisfied.

Regular Inspections

Conducting regular inspections is a fundamental part of preventative maintenance. Property managers are responsible for scheduling and performing these inspections to identify potential issues early. This includes checking for leaks, inspecting HVAC systems, examining the roof and gutters, and ensuring that safety devices such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are in working order.

Scheduling and Tracking Maintenance Tasks

A well organized maintenance schedule is crucial for effective preventative maintenance. Property managers must develop and adhere to a comprehensive maintenance plan that covers all aspects of the property. Utilizing property management software like Property Meld can significantly streamline this process. Property Meld allows managers to schedule, assign, and track maintenance tasks, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Efficient Use of Maintenance Technicians

During slower times of the year, property managers can optimize the efficiency of their internal maintenance technicians by focusing on preventative tasks. For example, winter months might see fewer turnovers, making it an ideal time to conduct thorough inspections and perform routine maintenance. This not only keeps technicians busy but also ensures the property remains in excellent condition year round.

Property Managers Responsibility to Their Owners

Property managers have a responsibility to their owners to protect and enhance their investment. Preventative maintenance is a critical component of this responsibility for several reasons:

Cost Savings

Emergency repairs are often costly and can lead to extended periods of downtime. Preventative maintenance, on the other hand, involves smaller, predictable expenses that are easier to budget for. This proactive approach leads to a more stable and efficient financial management of the property.

Increasing Property Lifespan

Maintaining rental properties with preventative maintenance creates a longer property lifespan. By ensuring that all systems and structures are regularly checked and serviced, property managers help extend the life of the property. This not only protects the owner’s investment but also increases the property’s value over time.

Enhancing Reputation and Attracting Quality residents

Properties that are known for being well maintained attract high quality residents. These residents are more likely to respect the property and pay their rent on time. Additionally, a good reputation can lead to positive word of mouth referrals, reducing marketing costs and vacancy rates. Property managers who prioritize preventative maintenance can build a strong reputation for their properties, benefitting both the owners and the community.

Utilizing Property Meld for Preventative Maintenance

Property Meld is a powerful tool that can help property managers efficiently handle preventative maintenance tasks. Here’s how it can make a difference:

• Centralized Task Management: Property Meld allows property managers to centralize all maintenance tasks in one digital hub. This ensures that all preventative maintenance activities are scheduled and tracked efficiently.

•  Automated Notifications: The software can send automated reminders for upcoming maintenance tasks, ensuring that nothing is forgotten. This is particularly useful for routine tasks that need to be performed at specific intervals.

• RealTime Updates: Property Meld provides real time updates on the status of maintenance tasks. This transparency helps property managers stay on top of their responsibilities and keep property owners informed about the condition of their investment.

Preventative maintenance is a key responsibility of property owners, ensuring that their investments remain valuable and attractive to residents. It is also a critical aspect of property managers’ responsibilities to their owners, involving regular inspections, scheduling and tracking maintenance tasks, and efficiently utilizing maintenance technicians. 

By focusing on preventative maintenance, property managers can reduce costs, increase property lifespan, and enhance resident satisfaction. Utilizing tools like Property Meld can streamline these processes, leading to more efficient operations and stronger relationships with property owners.

The post Maintaining Rental Properties with Preventative Maintenance appeared first on Property Meld.

This article delves into the critical aspects of a practical preventive maintenance checklist, the essential tasks to include, factors to consider, and how to automate this process with designated property maintenance software.

What is A Preventative Maintenance Checklist:

A preventative maintenance checklist for rental units is a comprehensive tool designed to systematically address and enhance the upkeep of properties, ensuring they remain in optimal condition. Preventative maintenance is a proactive strategy to identify, address, and prevent potential issues before they escalate, safeguarding both the property’s value and residents’ satisfaction. From routine inspections of plumbing and electrical systems to addressing minor repairs promptly, a well-crafted checklist tailored to rental units can significantly contribute to the overall rental experience while minimizing unforeseen maintenance challenges.

What are the Five Most  Important Tasks in a Preventative Maintenance Checklist:

In a preventative maintenance checklist tailored for rental properties, five crucial tasks stand out to ensure the sustained functionality, safety, and overall appeal of the units:

1: HVAC System Inspections and Servicing: Regular assessments of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are crucial. This includes changing air filters, cleaning ducts, and ensuring optimal performance. Proactive maintenance provides a comfortable living environment for residents and eliminates costly HVAC repairs during peak seasons.

2: Plumbing System Checks: Preventing plumbing issues is crucial in avoiding water damage and inconvenience. Periodic inspections of pipes, faucets, and water heaters can identify potential leaks or blockages, allowing for timely repairs. Additionally, addressing minor plumbing concerns promptly can prevent them from escalating into costly repairs.

3: Electrical System Maintenance: Regular checks on the electrical systems are essential for resident safety. This includes inspecting wiring, outlets, and circuit breakers. Addressing issues can prevent electrical hazards and disruptions, creating a secure and reliable living environment.

4: Roof and Gutter Maintenance: A well-maintained roof protects the property from weather-related damage. Regular inspections for leaks, missing shingles, or damaged gutters can prevent water infiltration.

5: Appliance Inspections and Servicing: Rental properties typically come equipped with various appliances. Regular inspections and maintenance of refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, and other devices ensure they function efficiently. Proactively addressing any issues can prevent unexpected breakdowns and resident dissatisfaction.

Regular and proactive maintenance reduces the likelihood of significant repairs and fosters positive relationships with investors and residents.

What are the 10 Factors to Consider in Performing Preventive Maintenance:

When performing preventive maintenance on rental properties, considering the following ten factors is crucial for a comprehensive and effective strategy:

1: Resident Communication and Scheduling: Establish clear communication channels with residents to schedule maintenance activities conveniently. Coordination ensures minimal disruption to the occupants while addressing maintenance needs promptly.

2: Property Age and Condition: Tailor the maintenance plan based on the age and overall condition of the property. Older properties may require frequent inspections and upgrades to address wear and tear.

3: Local Climate and Weather Conditions: Adapt the maintenance schedule to the local climate. For instance, properties prone to extreme weather conditions may need more frequent inspections for potential weather-related damage.

4: Compliance with Regulations: Stay informed about local regulations and building codes. Ensure that all maintenance activities comply with legal requirements to avoid potential fines and maintain the safety and habitability of the property.

5: Seasonal Maintenance Needs: Adjust the preventive maintenance plan based on seasonal requirements. For example, heating systems may require more attention in the winter, while you may prioritize landscaping and exterior maintenance in the spring and summer.

6: Occupancy Levels and Resident Turnover: Consider the occupancy and resident turnover rates when planning preventative maintenance. Empty units allow more extensive repairs, while occupied units may require more strategic scheduling.

7: Emergency Preparedness: Maintain emergency systems such as fire alarms, sprinklers, and emergency exits to ensure resident safety.

8: Cost and Budget Considerations: Develop a maintenance budget and prioritize tasks based on cost-effectiveness. Addressing minor issues can prevent them from escalating into more expensive repairs in the future.

9: Landscaping and Exterior Maintenance: Maintain the property’s curb appeal by including landscaping and exterior maintenance in the plan. Regularly trim trees, inspect the roof, and address structural issues to preserve the property’s aesthetic value.

10: Documentation and Record Keeping: Keep detailed records of all maintenance activities, including dates, tasks performed, and any repairs made. This documentation is valuable for tracking the property’s maintenance history and can be helpful for future planning and resale.

How Do I Create a Preventive Maintenance Checklist:

Creating a preventive maintenance checklist for your rental properties involves a systematic approach to ensure all essential aspects are covered. Follow these steps to develop an effective preventative maintenance plan:

1: Identify Property Components: List all components of your rental property, including HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical systems, appliances, roofing, and landscaping. This initial inventory will serve as the foundation for your checklist.

2: Prioritize Components: Prioritize the listed components based on criticality and frequency of use. Focus on high-impact areas such as safety systems, heating and cooling, and plumbing.

3: Set Maintenance Intervals: Establish a schedule for each maintenance task. Some tasks may be monthly, quarterly, biannually, or annually. Clearly define the frequency to ensure regular and timely inspections.

4: Delegate Responsibilities: Assign responsibilities for each task. If you manage multiple properties, specify which team member or contractor is responsible for completing each maintenance item.

5: Utilize Technology: Leverage property maintenance software or apps to streamline communication, schedule maintenance tasks, and digitally record completed activities. This helps in tracking and organizing maintenance efforts efficiently.

6: Review and Update: Regularly update your preventive maintenance checklist based on feedback, changing property conditions, and any new equipment installations. This ensures that your plan remains relevant and effective over time.

Download our free preventative maintenance checklist by filling out the form below!

Or, if you're ready to say goodbye to spreadsheets, paper checklists, and sticky notes plastered around the office, schedule a demo to see how our intelligent maintenance software can aid in building a preventative maintenance program that will lower costs and improve owner and resident retention.

The post Seasonal Preventative Maintenance Checklist: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Property Meld.

In property maintenance, preventative maintenance refers to the proactive and scheduled maintenance activities carried out to prevent property-related issues and ensure the proper functioning and longevity of the property and its appliances. It involves inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining various systems, structures, and equipment within a property with the primary objective of identifying and rectifying potential concerns before they escalate into significant challenges.

However, if you still need to solve communication, scheduling efficiency, and staffing issues, handling preventative repairs may be challenging. To learn more about solving these things and achieving maintenance excellence, subscribe to The Maintenance Minute.

Examples of preventative maintenance tasks in property maintenance include:

1. HVAC System Maintenance: Regularly cleaning and servicing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to ensure optimal performance and prevent breakdowns.

2. Plumbing Maintenance: Inspecting and maintaining plumbing fixtures, pipes, and drains to prevent leaks, clogs, and water damage.

3. Electrical System Maintenance: Checking electrical wiring, outlets, and panels for any signs of wear or malfunctioning to minimize the risk of electrical failures or hazards.

Why is Preventative Maintenance Important?

Preventative maintenance for properties is important for several reasons:

1. Cost Savings: Implementing a proactive maintenance approach can help property management companies save their owners money in the long run. By identifying and addressing minor issues before they escalate into major problems, preventative maintenance can prevent costly repairs or replacements. It is generally more cost-effective to perform regular maintenance tasks than to deal with large-scale repairs or emergency fixes.
2. Increased Lifespan of Property: Regular maintenance helps prolong the lifespan of various property components, such as HVAC systems, plumbing systems, roofs, and equipment. By keeping them in good working condition, properties can function optimally and remain in good shape for a longer period, reducing the need for premature replacements.
3. Minimized Downtime and Disruptions: Unplanned breakdowns or failures of critical systems can lead to significant downtime and disruptions in property operations.
4. Enhanced Safety: Regular inspections and maintenance activities ensure that safety hazards are identified and addressed promptly. Faulty electrical systems, leaking pipes, damaged flooring, or unsafe structures can pose risks to occupants or visitors. Preventative maintenance helps mitigate these risks, creating a safer environment for everyone.

Overall, preventative maintenance for properties is crucial for cost savings, property preservation, safety, and uninterrupted operations. It provides peace of mind to property owners and residents, reduces risks, and contributes to the long-term success of the property.

What Metrics are Involved in Preventative maintenance?

When tracking preventative property maintenance, several metrics can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and efficiency of the maintenance program. Here are some key metrics that should be tracked:

1. Maintenance Costs: Monitoring the costs associated with preventative maintenance activities provides an overview of the financial investment required to keep the property in good condition. This includes expenses such as labor, materials, equipment, and external service providers. Analyzing maintenance costs over time can help identify trends, cost-saving opportunities, and areas where maintenance efforts may need adjustment.
2. Asset Downtime: Tracking asset downtime helps measure the effectiveness of preventative maintenance in minimizing disruptions. This metric measures the amount of time assets or systems are non-functional due to maintenance activities. A reduction in asset downtime indicates successful maintenance efforts in preventing unexpected failures or breakdowns.
3. Work Order Completion Time: This metric measures the time it takes to complete maintenance work orders from the moment they are initiated. Tracking work order completion time helps identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, or delays in the maintenance process. It allows for better planning, resource allocation, and streamlining of maintenance tasks.
4. Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF): MTBF calculates the average time between failures of a particular asset or system. By tracking MTBF, property owners can assess the effectiveness of preventative maintenance in increasing the reliability and lifespan of assets. A higher MTBF indicates longer periods of uninterrupted operation and successful maintenance efforts.
5. Resident Satisfaction: Resident satisfaction surveys or feedback can provide valuable insights into the impact of preventative maintenance on resident experience. Tracking resident satisfaction helps gauge how well the maintenance efforts are meeting the needs and expectations of the property’s occupants. Higher satisfaction levels indicate successful maintenance practices and a well-maintained property.

These metrics, when analyzed regularly, can help property managers make data-driven decisions, identify areas for improvement, optimize maintenance strategies, and ensure the effectiveness of preventative property maintenance programs. To learn more about understanding maintenance metrics and how they are used, check out this article.

Request a demo with our team if you are interested in learning more about preventative maintenance and how it can be automated with our platform.

The post What Are KPIs for Preventative Maintenance? appeared first on Property Meld.

Corrective Maintenance

• Property maintenance is done when a resident submits a work order or there is an equipment failure.
• It is unpredictable because you don’t know when maintenance issues will occur.
• It can be costly when equipment failures happen.
• It is performed at random times when residents have maintenance issues.
• Owners will deal with costly maintenance repairs on their owner statements.
• Corrective maintenance processes are less efficient and can lead to maintenance technicians spending time on mundane tasks like scheduling repairs with residents.
• It increases the workload for maintenance technicians.
• It typically requires a more extensive maintenance staff.

Preventative Maintenance

• Preventative maintenance regularly schedules inspections and repairs to prevent more significant maintenance issues down the road.
• By regularly inspecting your property’s assets, you can prepare for potential issues before they happen.
• Initially, it can be more expensive, but you won’t have as many costly maintenance emergencies.
• It is a regularly scheduled task performed by a maintenance team.
• Your owners have better oversight, and you can give them a heads-up when an issue arises.
• You can increase efficiency and reduce employee downtime by scheduling preventative maintenance at regular intervals.
• It decreases the workload for maintenance technicians.
• You can get more done with a minor maintenance team.

Common Examples of Corrective and Preventative Maintenance

Corrective property maintenance often involves addressing issues that have already occurred, focusing on restoring the functionality of a property to its original state. Common examples include repairing a leaking roof after water damage has occurred, fixing a malfunctioning HVAC system, or replacing broken windows. These tasks are reactive in nature, aiming to remedy problems as they arise rather than proactively preventing them. While corrective maintenance is essential for addressing immediate concerns and ensuring the safety and usability of a property, it can be costly and disruptive, especially if issues are left unattended for extended periods.

On the other hand, preventative property maintenance focuses on identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate into larger problems. This proactive approach aims to preserve the condition of a property, extend its lifespan, and minimize the need for costly repairs down the line. Examples of preventative maintenance include regular inspections of plumbing and electrical systems to detect leaks or faulty wiring before they cause damage, scheduling routine servicing of appliances to keep them in optimal condition, and conducting seasonal maintenance such as gutter cleaning to prevent water damage. By staying ahead of potential issues, preventative maintenance not only saves property owners time and money but also enhances the overall value and longevity of the property.

Property Meld recommends a preventative maintenance strategy to help increase the life of your assets and increase your bottom line. To learn how Property Meld can help you implement a preventative maintenance process, schedule a demo with our team

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1- Replacing air conditioner and furnace filters

One of the most common examples of preventative maintenance tasks you can do now is replacing air conditioning and furnace filters. This is critical because it helps reduce air pollution, improve air quality, and prevent systems from overheating. When AC and furnace filters are clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, they can’t function properly. This can lead to circulating dirty air, reduced energy efficiency, and increased costs. By changing the filters regularly, you can ensure that your residents enjoy clean air and that your system runs at its best. Regulating and replacing filters can prolong the life of your HVAC systems and help avoid costly replacements down the road.

2- Roof and gutter inspections

Inspecting the roof and gutters on your properties regularly to ensure they are in good condition and free of any damage or debris. Regular inspections help to identify any issues early so maintenance technicians can repair them before they cause further damage to your properties. Additionally, inspecting the roof and gutters will help keep your properties safe and secure from water damage, leaks, and other potential hazards. It is crucial to maintain the condition of roofs to avoid water from leaking into the property. Water damage can cause severe structural damage to a property, leading to costly repairs.

3- Flushing of water heater

Flushing out water heaters is essential for several reasons. First, it helps remove sediment buildup in the tank, which can cause corrosion and reduce efficiency. It also helps to remove any minerals that can be present in the water, which can build up over time and reduce the amount of hot water available. Finally, flushing out the tank can help extend the water heater’s life and ensure it runs efficiently for years.

If you don’t flush water heaters, the system will have to work harder to heat your water, which can lead to higher energy bills. Additionally, the buildup can cause your water heater to malfunction and eventually fail, costing additional money to repair or replace it. Water heaters should be flushed out at least once a year to avoid buildup and system failure.

4- Replacing batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

This one should be obvious, but failing to replace batteries in a smoke detector can cause immense damage to properties and is dangerous for your residents. At the start of the tenancy, the landlord should ensure that the smoke detectors have working batteries. The batteries need to be checked at least once every six months. Make sure your lease states whether batteries need to be replaced by residents or is the property manager’s responsibility.

Carbon monoxide detectors help detect deadly gas present in a home. Furnaces, dryer vents, fireplaces, and chimneys can cause carbon monoxide leaks. It is recommended that residents test their carbon monoxide detectors monthly and replace batteries every six months. Check the lifetime of your detectors so you know when they need replacing.

5- Refresh bathroom caulk and grout

You should check the bathrooms and kitchens between tenants to evaluate the tile grout and caulk around the shower or sink. This helps prevent water from getting where it shouldn’t. When grout or caulk starts to peel and isn’t fixed, water can cause mold and lead to more extensive damage if left unattended.

If you see mold or mildew, your caulk and grout are peeling or cracking, or it has been longer than five years. During a unit turnover, inspecting the grout and replacing it if necessary is a good idea.

With designated maintenance software, you can use these examples of preventative maintenance to easily schedule maintenance so it never gets missed. Schedule a demo with our maintenance experts to see preventative maintenance’s impact on your company’s bottom line.

The post What are Common Examples of Preventative Maintenance? appeared first on Property Meld.

How Does Preventative Maintenance Lower Repair Costs?

With preventative maintenance programs, you’re budgeting a small amount over time to make routine checks and repairs. As a result, you are extending the lifespan of your equipment while reducing the risk of having to pay a third-party vendor for an emergency repair.

Think of your water heater. Hot water is a year-round necessity; replacing it can be a timely and costly repair. By regularly testing your TPR value, draining your tank, flushing out sediment, and replacing the air intake filter, you can add years to your water heater. Most of these regular maintenance tasks are cost effective and take minutes to complete. On the contrary, if you neglect these routine checkups , you can expect to completely replace a water heater— averaging, $1,217!

Preventative Maintenance Impacts Resident Satisfaction

We know that property maintenance is a massive factor in resident satisfaction. Our data shows that 31% of residents say maintenance is why they left a property. In fact, residents choosing not to renew their lease can cost you thousands!

For example, if you charge a monthly rent of $1,200 and it sits vacant for 30 days, you will lose $1,252.80 in rental income. Not to mention the average cost of turning a residence over. The national average of turnover costs is equal to three months’ rent. So if you have a $1,200 apartment sitting vacant for one month, you are looking at almost $5,000 in lost income!

To calculate your vacancy rates, you can use the formula below: 

Efficient maintenance processes also have a significant impact on your online reviews. The primary reason property management companies receive negative reviews is due to maintenance issues. For example, if you take longer than 5.5 days to fix a maintenance problem, you have less than a 1% chance of receiving a positive review. In short, the quicker your maintenance request gets completed, the happier your residents are, and the more lease renewals you’ll have.

Preventative Maintenance and Owner Retention is a Match Made in Heaven 

Most property owners want to know their property managers are taking care of their assets while keeping costs down. Preventative maintenance can accomplish both things! By making routine maintenance checks, you can fix minor issues with the equipment before it becomes a bigger, more expensive problem. With PropertyCare+ from Property Meld, you, as a property manager, can schedule routine maintenance checkups, taking care of your owner’s assets better than ever!

Preventative maintenance is the future of property management and is a great way to take control of your maintenance process. To learn more about PropertyCare+ and how Property Meld can save you money, book a demo today!

The post How Can Preventative Maintenance Increase Your Profits? appeared first on Property Meld.

What is HVAC Preventative Maintenance?

HVAC, which means “heating, ventilation, and air conditioning,” is the system that keeps your home and rental units at optimal temperatures. It keeps your home warm in the brutal winters and cools in the sweltering summer months. HVAC preventative maintenance is cleaning and assessing the system’s components to ensure it is operating correctly to avoid future problems. One example is not changing HVAC filters or coils regularly, which can lead to leaks — wreaking havoc on your HVAC system.

Implementing preventative maintenance on your HVAC systems is crucial to avoid costly HVAC failures down the road. 

Why is HVAC Preventative Maintenance Essential?

Improves the overall health of the home

Consider your HVAC equipment as the main artery that keeps the heart of a home beating. When the cooling and heating system operates efficiently, the entire home benefits. Alternatively, poor equipment can result in increased negative impacts. 

For example, if your heater isn’t running correctly in cold temperatures, you risk other major, costly home issues. So why can’t you turn it off once in a while to prolong its life? There is a high chance that when you turn off your heater, the temperature can dramatically drop and ultimately freeze your pipes. 

How is that possible? According to Mid Atlantic HVAC, the frozen water in the pipes can expand, burst, and even flood the home. Water damage will cost you more than paying the heating bill.

With preventative maintenance routines in place, it is said to reduce the risk of costly maintenance issues by 95%. Imagine being able to tell your property owner that you’re extending the life of their assets while saving them money.

Improves owner satisfaction and retention

Speaking of property owners, keeping their property in optimal shape is essential to owner satisfaction and retention.

Your owner’s property is an investment, and they trust you to ensure that their investment is maintained. Save thousands of dollars lost in HVAC repairs and avoid owner churn by spending a little time and money to do routine inspections.

Improves resident satisfaction and happiness

It’s no secret that a smooth-running HVAC system keeps your residents happy. Our data shows that satisfaction ratings and maintenance issues are inversely related; when problems arise, ratings drop, and when issues drop, ratings rise. 

The length of time you have to repair an HVAC issue before a resident becomes disgruntled — and leaving a negative review — is shorter than with any other common maintenance issue.

Our data shows that property management companies have just 72 hours to fix an HVAC issue. If it takes any longer to repair, the chances of a resident writing a negative review skyrocket. Regular preventative maintenance ensures that everything will run smoothly, reducing the chance of resident churn and negative reviews.

Decrease cost of repair in high demand seasons

If you want to keep your maintenance costs down, your best bet is to avoid emergency repairs in high-demand seasons. When there is high demand for a vendor or technician, the price of their work will likely increase as well.

In addition, if a priority maintenance issue occurs, you have little choice but to hire a technician regardless of the timing or price. Implementing regular check-ups for your equipment will save you hundreds and thousands from emergency repairs during peak seasons.

Less stress on internal staff

Many businesses are experiencing a lack of inadequate staffing levels. The last thing your property management company needs is a flood of residents calling simultaneously about their AC unit breaking down. By simply taking preventative measures with regular inspections, your staff can put their efforts and time towards tasks that profit your company.

HVAC Issues By Season and Region

HVAC issues by season

When you think of the worst time for HVAC repairs, you probably imagine a sweltering early June day when thousands of air conditioners kick on for the first time of the year.

However, according to our data, the most expensive month for maintenance repairs is September. The average HVAC repair invoice is $435 — 21% higher than the average repair cost.

The second most expensive month is February, where the average invoice is $416 — 15% higher than the average cost.

That sweltering June day? It comes in at third, with an average invoice equaling $407.

HVAC issues by region

In addition to seasonal issues, each region is unique and can experience different fluctuations in repair costs depending on HVAC vendor demand. 

Southern United States: 50% of all HVAC service issues in the south happen during the summer. In addition, the monthly repair request invoice is 123% higher than off-season invoices!

Northern United States: The monthly average repair request invoice is 61% higher than an off-season invoice during the winter months.

HVAC Preventative Maintenance Tips and Checklist

Preventative programs emphasizing routine inspections are a great place to start. When you create a system of regular check-ups for your property and assets, you’re able to identify problems before they become costly emergencies. 

HVAC Preventative Maintenance Tips: 

1. 1. Perform spring cleaning:  We recommend cleaning the HVAC system’s air condensers and filters. This work will come at a cost to your company. Still, it will avoid expensive emergency repairs during the peak season.
   2. Consider charging an administration fee for preventive maintenance: It is reasonable and fair to charge an annual administration fee for HVAC preventative maintenance. The additional revenue will come in handy to invest in replacing new units down the road.
   3. Perform an inspection during a resident turnover. Another tip is to integrate HVAC inspections into your resident turnover program. 

We made it easier for you to track these repairs with our editable HVAC preventative maintenance checklist.

Are you ready to take your property maintenance process to the next level? With our automation features, planning and scheduling preventative maintenance is a breeze. Request a demo today to learn more about how automation can enhance your daily preventive tasks. 

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The post The Property Management Guide to HVAC Preventative Maintenance appeared first on Property Meld.