Things to Consider When Starting Maintenance Planning

Smart Choices for a Sustainable Maintenance Plan

Starting maintenance planning is an important step towards more proactive and cost-effective property management. Many consultants and system providers recommend seeking expert help to create a plan based on the actual condition of the property – something we highly recommend as well. At the same time, we know this isn’t always a reality

 

Why Are Maintenance Plans Missing?

Many property owners either don’t have a plan at all or are using an outdated version that hasn’t been updated in years. Often, this is due to a lack of time, resources, or knowledge to keep the plan current. Sometimes, actions are only taken when problems arise or tenants’ needs change. Additionally, some people don’t see the point of investing in a comprehensive plan with a consultant.

But the truth is, a well-thought-out maintenance plan saves money, prevents problems, and provides peace of mind – for both property owners and tenants.

 

Simple Steps to Get Started

It doesn’t have to be complicated to take the first step. Start at the desk by gathering basic information about the properties. Even without a detailed condition inspection, you will get a better overview of future needs. A simple plan is always better than no plan at all – whether you’re a housing cooperative or a municipality.

Remember that the more detailed the plan is, the more time it will require to keep it updated. Find the right level of ambition for your situation.

 

Cost Control and Professional Help

Maintenance costs are always estimates – the final price is only known once the work is completed. For immediate actions, it can be worthwhile to hire a professional to assess the scope and determine if the work can be coordinated with other projects.

Delaying actions or doing small repairs gradually often ends up being more expensive in the long run. That’s why we recommend getting help to make smart decisions and handle damages before they escalate.

 

Excel or Specialized Systems?

Many people start by creating their maintenance plan in Excel – and that’s a perfectly acceptable option. Excel is cost-effective and easily accessible. But as the plan grows, it can become time-consuming to maintain the structure and updates. Additionally, Excel is limited when it comes to sharing and quality-assuring data.

That’s why we suggest looking into web-based systems designed to simplify both planning and updates. With the right system support, you’ll have a sustainable plan that’s easy to manage and develop.

 

Next Steps

Whether you choose to start simply or with professional help, the most important thing is to begin. Consider the level of detail you need and what support could make the work easier. Feel free to create an account in our service and use the guide to create your maintenance plan.