The holiday season brings cozy nights, festive lights—and, for property owners, a unique set of maintenance challenges. While tenants are hosting guests and spending more time at home, systems like plumbing, heating, and appliances can experience extra strain. Here’s how to stay prepared and keep your properties running smoothly through the busy season.
1. Set Clear Communication Channels
Before the holidays are in full swing, remind residents how to reach you or your property manager for both standard maintenance and after-hours emergencies. Provide clear contact information and response timelines so no one is left guessing.
2. Define “Emergency” vs. “Non-Emergency”
Many after-hours calls can be avoided if tenants know what truly constitutes an emergency. Examples like loss of heat, major leaks, or electrical hazards should be handled immediately—while minor issues can often wait until the next business day. Setting these expectations helps everyone manage stress and costs.
3. Schedule Preventative Maintenance Early
Don’t wait for a problem to pop up during a holiday weekend. November is a great time to test furnaces, inspect plumbing for leaks, clean gutters, and check smoke detectors. A proactive inspection can prevent many of the season’s common repair calls.
4. Keep Vendor Contacts Handy
Emergencies don’t take time off, so make sure your preferred vendors—plumbers, HVAC techs, electricians—know your holiday hours and can respond quickly if needed. Partnering with a reliable property management team can take this coordination off your plate entirely.
5. Communicate with Empathy
Remember, tenants often feel stressed when maintenance disrupts their plans—especially around the holidays. A quick, kind response goes a long way toward building trust and long-term tenant satisfaction.
With preparation and clear communication, you can keep maintenance manageable, minimize emergencies, and ensure your residents (and your property) enjoy a peaceful holiday season.