In a recent podcast episode, I had the opportunity to chat with Malia Sharpe & Sam Pyne from On Tap Plumbing. The discussion was around critical responsibilities of property managers regarding work health and safety. This discussion is particularly relevant when engaging contractors for maintenance and repairs. The episode highlighted the importance of ensuring that contractors have the necessary licenses, insurance, and safety protocols in place. 

Key Responsibilities of Property Managers

Property managers must ensure that contractors have the necessary licenses and insurance before engaging them for any work.

It is crucial to confirm that contractors have appropriate safety protocols in place to mitigate risks associated with their work.

These days, property managers are faced with a lot of challenges, one being pressure from landlords to find the cheapest provider. This can often lead to hiring less qualified contractors which poses significant risks

Property managers must strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and ensuring the safety of all parties involved. This involves pushing back against the pressure to choose cheaper options without proper vetting.

Here are some important things for property managers to consider when handling maintenance:

• When onboarding contractors, property managers must be clear about the tasks involved and the qualifications required for those tasks.
• Knowing and ensuring that contractors hold the appropriate licenses for the job, such as plumbing or electrical tasks.
• Be aware of any additional training requirements, such as working at heights, especially if the job involves accessing roofs or elevated areas.
• If property managers are unsure about the necessary licenses for specific jobs, it is crucial to educate themselves about the requirements. Reaching out to reputable companies like On Tap Plumbing for guidance can be beneficial.
• The use of technology, such as the Tapi system, can help property managers track compliance and insurance documentation. This system alerts property managers if any documents are expired before issuing work orders, ensuring that all contractors meet safety requirements.
• Having a dedicated person in the office responsible for onboarding and maintaining contractor records is essential. This individual should regularly follow up on renewals and ensure that all documentation is up to date.
• Informing Contractors About Potential Risks: Effective communication between property managers and contractors is crucial. Property managers must provide detailed information about any known hazards at properties, such as asbestos or structural issues, to ensure that contractors are adequately prepared.
• Addressing Tenant Behavior: Information about tenant behavior is also important for ensuring the safety of technicians. If a contractor is aware of potential hazards, such as a difficult tenant, they can take appropriate precautions, such as sending two technicians instead of one.
• Property managers should identify hazards related to the property itself, such as asbestos, structural concerns, and other potential dangers. Documenting any known risks can help inform contractors and ensure their safety.
• Property managers should also be aware of the overall condition of the property and any maintenance issues that could pose risks. Flagging these concerns in advance can help contractors prepare for potential challenges and mitigate risks effectively. This is one we need to particularly look out for, as many senior property managers remain on the "desk" while other dedicated assistants are the ones visiting the properties for home opens and inspections. 
• Property managers must understand the financial implications of non-compliance with safety standards. Fines for lapses in safety protocols can be significant, and individuals can be held accountable, not just companies.

If you want to listen more to the discussion we had on this topic, head over to Spotify or Apple Podcasts "The Art of Property Management"