Three Maintenance Styles: Which One Are You?

Managing maintenance in a community can significantly impact your budget. Whether dealing with routine tasks or unexpected emergencies, maintenance can take up about 25% or more of your total expenses.

Some boards aim to reduce costs but often do so ineffectively. Deferring necessary repairs can lead to minor issues escalating into major problems, requiring costly special assessments. Larger repairs tend to be more expensive, meaning short-term savings can lead to long-term losses. Typically, this happens when boards lack a partnership with a proactive property management company that prioritizes essential maintenance tasks.

Boards generally adopt one of three strategies when it comes to maintenance. Here’s a breakdown to see which one matches your approach:

Maintenance Style #1: Reactive Maintenance, or “If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It”

Many may think this approach doesn’t apply to them, yet more boards follow it than one might expect. Even the most diligent boards occasionally fall into this mindset. While initially cost-effective, this method can backfire. Important upkeep tasks may go unattended, causing greater expenses later. This is akin to skipping regular oil changes in a car to save money, only to face the cost of a new engine later.

Maintenance Style #2: Preventive Maintenance

While this strategy is generally positive, it’s not without pitfalls. Boards might set up routine service schedules and hire dependable contractors, assuming they’ve covered everything. However, neglecting other potential issues might lead to unforeseen repairs. A change in board leadership can also disrupt this approach if new members overlook existing contracts and warranties, unintentionally voiding them. Though preventive maintenance has strong intentions, thoroughness and continuity are crucial. With careful planning and seamless board transitions, it offers a balanced and responsible way forward.

Maintenance Style #3: Predictive Maintenance, or “There Are No Surprises”

The most forward-thinking method involves constant monitoring and inspections of buildings, facilities, and equipment. This allows for the assessment of optimal performance, future needs, and immediate actions required. Predictive maintenance fosters financial stability and predictability. It also opens the door for cost-saving measures, such as sustainable building practices and energy-efficient upgrades. Predictive maintenance is ideal for ensuring a community is well-managed and prepared.

Understanding these maintenance styles prompts the question: how can a board transition to preventive or predictive maintenance? The key lies in working with a reliable property management company. These professionals bring local expertise, the ability to coordinate with inspectors, and the experience to develop effective maintenance schedules. This partnership can help design a proactive approach that maximizes savings and minimizes unexpected challenges.