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Property Management – Northridge – Responding to Maintenance Emergencies

NORTHRIDGE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Responding to Maintenance Emergencies

Years ago, while living in Las Vegas, a summer thunderstorm wreaked havoc on my apartment. Lightning eventually struck the roof of my loft, creating a fairly significant hole in the roof. Since it was late, I placed a bucket under the hole to catch the still-falling rain and called the management office to report the damage.

I left four messages that evening; none were returned. The roof was eventually fixed; five days later. Each day I prayed that the summer monsoon rains would stay away until the roof was fixed.

I was lucky about the weather. Not so much about my choice of apartment communities. What really angered me was the lack of concern about a serious problem that a tenant had. I didn’t expect them to come out that evening in the middle of a storm to fix the roof. I did expect them to call me back and let me know that it would be taken care of. That lack of concern was what I put on my 30 day notice, when I chose not to renew my lease.

Are you available for your residents 24-7? That doesn’t mean following up on minor issues that can be easily addressed in the light of day. It does mean that when your tenant has a legitimate concern, are you easily reachable, even if just for some reassurance?

If you’re a little confused on what constitutes a legitimate emergency, here are some issues that property managers and owners should respond to as quickly as possible. And remember, if you’re not sure, err on the side of the emergency being important and pick up the phone and call.

Major leaks, including both storm related damages, or issues such as a toilet or sink overflowing from an upstairs units.
Lack of heat. This is an issue that needs to be addressed immediately, particularly in colder climates.
Any structural issues. This can include anything from collapsing balconies, stairways, carports, or ceilings.
Any gas smells. While hopefully tenants have been instructed to call the local gas company in the event of a gas smell, this is an issue that managers need to address promptly.
Lack of running water. Again, this is an issue that constitutes an emergency, and property managers should respond accordingly.

While property managers should never be expected to respond to every issue that arises after hours, it’s important for tenants to know that should an emergency arise outside normal business hours, their property manager is only a phone call away.

by Mary Girsch-Bock

Since 1946 the Carnahan name has had a reputation for honest and ethical Real Estate Property Management services in the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, Burbank/Glendale, Los Angeles, Westside and Conejo Valley areas.

The reason for our success is helping owners like you when they need it. Below is a partial list of property management services we provide to help you protect your real estate investment.