How to manage the managers when repairs aren't getting done

Question

What are some things you can do to incentivize property management to get repairs to be made?

For contractors, I have heard of incentivizing them by giving them a bonus if they finish the job early. Does this trick work with property management when they are acting as the GC in a sense?

Karl B. · Answer

@Scott M.I had the same issue with HD last month. After the appliance arrived I called them and complained (I was told to do so by the CS guy I had spoken with when they called me to tell me of the delay) and they sent me a $150 electronic gift card on a $500-something dollar fridge. So definitely call the HD appliance delivery number after the delivery occurs and try to get some money back as it worked for me.

To the OP - If they're simply being slow and it's apparent the PM isn't making things happen, find a new PM or if possible, self-manage. If you want to incentivize them I would say something like, "Being an agent, I know lots of property owners looking for a good PM. Take good care of me and I'll get you more business."

Scott M. · Answer

Thanks @Karl B. great tip for everyone!

Theresa Harris · Answer

You shouldn't have to incentivize them.  It is part of their job to make sure repairs are done as needed.

Steve Vaughan · Answer

If it's in your backyard you go Nike on it and just do it.

What needs done and how far is the property from you?

Bud Gaffney · Answer

You fire them and hire a new PM :) No really...

Scott M. · Answer

As you know by now you have not supplied enough info to know what the actual problem is.  Generally, people, not just contractors are incentivized by money so can't hurt.  But it may be beyond their control as well.  I have been waiting on HD to deliver appliances to a property for 2 weeks now, they keep delaying.  No amount of money is going to make HD go faster.  Sometimes the client wants a specific thing and that specific thing isn't available locally so we all wait.  Sometimes as others have said the weather or conditions make it such that only emergencies can be handled.  I hear up to 2' of snow is falling in Boston/NY this weekend.  You think managers in those area are going to be dealing with non-emergencies for a few days?  Likely not.

Bottom line, depends on the details of your individual situation.  That said, been doing this for 22 years and have never had a client offer more money to get a job done faster.

Peter Tverdov · Answer

Obviously I don't have the full story here but as a property manager I would suggest patience. There are labor shortages all over the country and sometimes it's hard to get people out to make repairs. Especially low hanging fruit like toilet flappers, sealing a window, etc.

How to manage the managers when repairs aren't getting done

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