If you are the new owner of an apartment complex, you may be concerned about maintenance issues. Some issues may not require immediate attention, but other property maintenance concerns may be considered an emergency.

The routine maintenance of a property can be conducted during the usual operational hours of the property's maintenance department. Routine maintenance may be performed if the kitchen sink is dripping or if a single stovetop burner is not operational. These maintenance concerns are inconvenient, but they do not jeopardize the safety of the property or the tenants.

However, an emergency property maintenance issue must be addressed without delay. Here are a few different issues that are considered property maintenance emergencies.

Lack of Heat or Air Conditioning

If an apartment can no longer be heated or cooled, the safety of the apartment's occupants may be jeopardized. Thus, since the issue is considered life-threatening, emergency maintenance should be performed, regardless of the time of day, especially when the weather outside is extremely cold or hot.

Toilet Clogs

Toilet clogs may not seem like a true emergency. However, raw sewage can overflow and pose health risks. In addition, the sewage can contaminate items within the apartment, including the belongings of the tenants. If a toilet cannot be easily unclogged with a plunger, the clog is considered an emergency.

Refrigeration Problems

If the refrigerator within the apartment no longer cools, the appliance may begin to mold. The mold can spread to other items in the apartment and may necessitate the replacement of the refrigerator if the unit is not promptly fixed. Additionally, the items in the refrigerator may start to spoil.

Plumbing Issues That Result in Flooding

If pipe breaks or a hot water heater ruptures in an apartment, the flooding that results could cause damage to the building and to the possessions of the occupants. The longer the flooding is allowed to persist, the greater the degree of the damage. Thus, prompt attention is needed to remedy the situation.

A Carbon Monoxide Leak

If a carbon monoxide alarm goes off in an apartment, the presence of the harmful gas is considered an emergency. There should be no delay in addressing the situation. A leak could quickly threaten the life of an apartment occupant.

If you own an apartment complex, it is important to educate your maintenance staff concerning the difference between routine and emergency maintenance concerns. For more information, consult with a property management specialist in your area.

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