How to deal with maintenance issues while working a full time job

[Zach Barber]

While at work, my tenant called me about 11 times today because her hot water went out. I have been working on the plumbing on my days off, so I wasn't sure if it was something I had messed with or if it was an issue with the water heater. My question is how do you guys handle maintenance issues if you can't make it out to the property? Do you hire a part time handy man? If so how would this position be billed? Or is it better to just send out a plumber if there is water issues, electrician for electrical issues etc....    

Thanks for the help,

Zach

[Wesley W.]

My tenants have a Google Voice number that goes to my cell phone.  (as far as they know, that number IS my cell phone.)  I do not have the ability to answer at work, so it goes to VM and GV transcribes it as an email so I can read it.  If it's something pressing (e.g. no heat) I will go over after work and do the service call.  If it's less urgent, I will respond back later in the day and let them know their issue is "on my list" and I will get to it in an appropriate time.  I have 12 units currently.  I imagine I could do this with up to 20 with minimal challenge.  If I had more than that, I would no longer have a W2 job. 

It's also important you set boundaries with your tenants.  If any one of them called me 11 times within a work day, I would be having a serious talk with them about whether they needed to find a new place to live.  I do not consider lack of hot water life or death.  If it was a life or death situation, they should call 9-1-1.