Overwhelmed by frequent tenant repair requests

[Paul S.]

Hi everyone.

I have been self-managing a few rental townhouses for about 2 years. I'd say on average, I get called every 2 weeks about repair issues. I have received all kinds of repair requests, e.g. clogged dishwashers, leaks, shattered oven glass, etc. etc. It's hard to say if some incidents are wear-and-tear or damage. Others are clearly damages, but I tend to not charge tenants to maintain good will.

I do not know how to repair everything. I have a full-time job and try to have a life. Sending contractors each time is costly. Paying property management companies ~10% of the rent, not including repair costs, is also costly.

How do fellow landlords deal with the plethora of repair requests? Do you keep a handyman on speed dial, and get a preferred rate each time? Get the tenants to fix small issues themselves? Any other ideas?

Thanks in advance!

Paul