Rental property maintenance is one of the keys to success with owning a rental property because of one simple reason, if you keep that property in great shape, you will continue to keep that property earning excellent ROI for years to come.
Even though rental property maintenance is essential, the reality is that maintenance emergencies can drive a landlord crazy because this means that a landlord could be called by their tenant at all hours of the day or night.
This is why landlords must define what a maintenance emergency is so that their tenants know when to call and respect their landlords time.
Defining a Maintenance Emergency
A maintenance emergency is any issue that poses an immediate threat to the health and safety of tenants, causes significant property damage, or results in essential services becoming unusable. These situations require urgent attention, often outside regular business hours, to prevent further harm or damage. Unlike routine maintenance requests, which can be scheduled later, emergencies demand immediate response and repair.
Examples of Maintenance Emergencies
While not every maintenance issue qualifies as an emergency, the following are everyday situations that typically require urgent attention:
1. No Heat in Extreme Weather
A lack of heating can be life-threatening in colder climates or during winter months. If the temperature falls below a safe level and the heating is completely non-functional, it is considered an emergency. This is especially critical for elderly tenants, young children, and individuals with health conditions.
2. Gas Leaks
A gas leak is a serious emergency due to the risk of explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning. If a tenant reports a strong smell of gas or experiences symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure, they should evacuate the property immediately and contact emergency services before contacting the property manager.
3. Flooding or Major Water Leaks
Significant water leaks from burst pipes, broken rental property water heaters, or overflowing plumbing fixtures can cause severe property damage and lead to mold growth if not addressed immediately. Water intrusion can also create electrical hazards, increasing the level of urgency.
4. No Running Water
Access to clean, running water is essential for sanitation, cooking, and hygiene. A complete water outage, mainly if it affects an entire building or property, constitutes an emergency that must be resolved quickly.
5. Sewage Backups
Sewage backups pose serious health risks due to exposure to bacteria and other harmful contaminants. If toilets, drains, or main sewer lines back up into the property, immediate action is required to protect the tenants’ health and prevent further damage.
6. Electrical Issues or Power Outages
While a localized power outage may be the utility provider’s responsibility, electrical issues within a rental unit—such as exposed wiring, sparking outlets, or a failure of critical electrical systems—can be fire hazards and require immediate attention.
7. Broken Locks or Doors Compromising Security
It is an emergency if exterior doors or locks are broken, making it impossible to secure the property. Tenants should always feel safe in their homes, and any compromised security issue, such as a break-in or jammed door lock, should be handled urgently.
8. Fire or Smoke Damage
Any fire-related damage, whether from an active fire or residual smoke, requires immediate response from emergency services. After ensuring the safety of tenants, the property manager must assess the damage and begin necessary repairs as soon as possible.
What Is Not Considered an Emergency?
Not all maintenance issues qualify as emergencies, even if they cause inconvenience. Some examples of non-emergencies include:
- A slow-draining sink or tub
- A broken appliance (unless it presents a hazard)
- Minor leaks that can be contained temporarily
- Pest infestations (unless it involves a large infestation of harmful pests like rodents)
- Issues with aesthetics, such as peeling paint or a damaged countertop
How Should Property Managers Handle Emergencies?
To effectively manage maintenance emergencies, property managers should have a transparent process in place, including:
- Emergency Contact Information – Tenants should know whom to contact in an emergency, whether a 24/7 maintenance hotline or a designated on-call technician.
- Prompt Response – Emergencies should be addressed immediately, ideally within a few hours of being reported.
- Coordination with Contractors – Having trusted plumbers, electricians, and other repair professionals available for emergency calls ensures quick solutions.
- Tenant Communication – Keeping tenants informed about the status of emergency repairs helps manage expectations and reduce stress.
Understanding what qualifies as a maintenance emergency is crucial for property managers and tenants. While some issues can wait for regular business hours, emergencies require immediate action to prevent harm and minimize damage. A well-prepared property management team can ensure that urgent repairs are handled efficiently, maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment for all residents.
At Rent Portland Homes – Professionals / 4 Rent Local, we specialize in full service property management including maintenance. Our team will save you the time, money and hassle of managing your clients rental properties yourself.
To learn more about the maintenance services that we can offer you, contact us today by calling (503) 646-9664 – Talk to a Live Person – Our office answers the phone 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday – or click here to connect with us online.
