Repairs

1. “Repairs” refers to the actions taken to fix or restore a property when something is broken or not working properly.

2. Repairs can range from minor to major and can be reactive or proactive in nature.

Minor repairs

3. “Minor repairs” are usually less complex and less expensive than major repairs. They can typically be completed by a handyman or a general contractor.  Examples of minor repairs include: 

1. fixing a leaky tap, 
2. replacing a light switch or outlet, 
3. painting a room, 
4. unclogging a drain, 
5. fixing a squeaky door, 
6. replacing a door knob, 
7. replacing a smoke detector battery

 

Major repairs

4. “Major repairs” refer to more significant and complex tasks that are necessary to keep a property in good condition. These tasks are typically more expensive and require specialised skills and equipment to complete.

5. Examples of major repairs include:

1. replacing a roof, 
2. rebuilding a chimney, 
3. replacing a boiler,
4. installing new windows, 
5. remodelling a kitchen or bathroom, 
6. replacing electrical or plumbing systems, 
7. structural repairs to a building. 

6. It’s important to be able to distinguish between minor and major repairs and to budget and plan accordingly. Major repairs can be costly and time-consuming and can have a significant impact on the property’s value and on the ability to attract and retain residents. 

“Reactive” and “proactive” repairs

7. “Reactive repairs” and “proactive repairs” refer to the timing and approach of carrying out repairs on a property. 

Reactive repairs

8. “Reactive repairs” refers to repairs that are carried out in response to a problem or issue that has already occurred. These repairs are typically done on an as-needed basis and often involve fixing something that has broken or is not working properly.

9. Examples of reactive repairs include:

1. replacing a broken window, 
2. fixing a leaky roof, 
3. unblocking a blocked drain, 
4. mending or replacing a broken appliance.

Proactive repairs

10. “Proactive repairs” refers to repairs that are carried out in advance of a problem or issue occurring. These repairs are typically done as part of a planned maintenance program and are designed to prevent problems from happening in the first place. Examples of proactive repairs include:

11. scheduling regular roof inspections to identify and repair any potential leaks, 

12. inspecting and maintaining electrical and plumbing systems to prevent future breakdowns, 

13. carrying out routine cleaning and maintenance on the building’s exterior to prevent deterioration. 

14. It is important to adopt a proactive approach to repairs and maintenance to minimise the risk of costly repairs and unnecessary void periods, and to ensure that the property is safe and attractive to potential residents.