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Why Preventative Maintenance is the Secret to Tenant Retention and Owner Loyalty

Why Preventative Maintenance is the Secret to Tenant Retention and Owner Loyalty
By Abi Ortscheid Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Preventative maintenance isn’t just about fixing things before they break. For property managers, it’s one of the most powerful tools for tenant retention and owner loyalty.

Industry data from Property Meld shows a clear link between preventative maintenance and reduced owner churn. Why? Because owners usually leave when there’s tenant turnover or when a major repair blindsides them. Preventative maintenance addresses both.

By scheduling proactive upkeep—before tenants complain or a property sits vacant—you extend tenant stays, prevent costly damage, and keep owners happy.

Examples of Preventative Maintenance Programs

Here are a few programs that have proven successful in practice:

  • Annual HVAC Tune-Ups: Identify issues before summer heat spikes and replacements become inevitable.

  • Fireplace Cleaning & Dryer Vent Service: Reduce fire hazards and liability risks while protecting tenant safety.

  • Seasonal Inspections & Winterization: Catch small issues early and prevent weather-related damage.

  • Gutter Cleaning & Pressure Washing (coming soon in many companies): Protect exteriors, prevent water damage, and even keep HOAs off your back.

The key isn’t just offering these services—it’s making them the default. Owners can always opt out, but putting preventative maintenance front-and-center signals professionalism and creates peace of mind.

Why It Matters for Property Managers

  • Tenants stay longer when homes are well-maintained.

  • Owners save money on long-term repairs and avoid unpleasant surprises.

  • Your company stands out by offering proactive protection, not just reactive fixes.

Preventative maintenance builds trust. It shows tenants and owners alike that you’re invested in the property’s long-term performance, not just putting out fires.

👉 For more details—including real-world rollout strategies and free resources like opt-out forms—check out the full article on our Substack: bit.ly/pmasub

Want to strengthen tenant retention and owner relationships? Subscribe to PMAssist Insider for practical systems and strategies you can put to work today.

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Abi Ortscheid
Partner
With experience spanning over a decade in the property management industry, Abi stands out not just as an industry expert but also as a trailblazing woman entrepreneur. Her dedication transcends traditional business roles, as she's fervently committed to elevating her peers in the property management realm. Abi's vision isn't limited to streamlining the property management process; it's about fostering an environment where every stakeholder, from property owners to tenants, has an enhanced exper...
With experience spanning over a decade in the property management industry, Abi stands out not just as an industry expert but also as a trailblazing woman entrepreneur. Her dedication transcends traditional business roles, as she's fervently committed to elevating her peers in the property management realm. Abi's vision isn't limited to streamlining the property management process; it's about fostering an environment where every stakeholder, from property owners to tenants, has an enhanced experience. Furthermore, Abi's advocacy goes beyond professional guidance. She consistently champions the cause of female professionals, ensuring their voices are heard, their roles are acknowledged, and their potential is realized. In every endeavor, Abi's passion for improvement and inclusivity shines through, making her an invaluable asset and leader in the property management community.
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