As a property owner or manager, understanding what constitutes an emergency in property management is crucial. Knowing when immediate action is required can help protect your property, ensure tenant safety, and maintain positive landlord-tenant relationships. In this blog post, we will discuss common scenarios that are considered emergencies in property management and the appropriate steps to take.

1. Fire or Gas Leak: Any indication of a fire or gas leak should be treated as an emergency. If a tenant reports a gas smell or notices flames, it is vital to prioritize their safety. Instruct them to evacuate the premises immediately and contact the relevant authorities, such as the fire department and gas company. It is crucial to have clear emergency procedures in place to guide tenants in such situations.
2. Flooding or Water Damage: Significant water damage or flooding can cause structural issues and pose a risk to tenants and the property itself. Burst pipes, severe leaks, or heavy storms leading to flooding are emergencies that require immediate attention. Contact a professional plumber or restoration service to mitigate the water damage and prevent further deterioration of the property.
3. Gas or Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarms: If a tenant’s gas or carbon monoxide detector alarm is activated, it should be treated as an emergency. This indicates a potential threat to their safety. Advise the tenant to leave the property immediately and contact the appropriate authorities for assistance. Promptly arrange for a professional inspection to identify and rectify the issue.
4. Electrical Issues: Electrical emergencies, such as power outages or exposed wires, should not be taken lightly. These situations can pose safety hazards and require prompt resolution. Advise tenants to check if the issue is localized to their unit or affecting the entire property. If it’s a widespread problem, contact the utility provider. For individual electrical issues, engage a licensed electrician to address the problem quickly and efficiently.
5. Lockouts or Security Breaches: Tenant lockouts or security breaches that compromise the safety of the property should be handled promptly. If a tenant is locked out, provide them with immediate assistance or contact a locksmith to regain access to their unit. In case of a security breach, such as a broken door or window, ensure the affected area is secured and consider installing temporary measures until permanent repairs can be made.
6. HVAC System Failure: Extreme temperatures can adversely affect the comfort and well-being of tenants. A complete HVAC system failure during extreme weather conditions is considered an emergency. Arrange for a professional HVAC technician to assess and repair the system promptly, ensuring tenants have a comfortable living environment.
7. Sewage Backup or Plumbing Issues: Sewage backups, major leaks, or plumbing malfunctions that result in water overflow require immediate attention. These issues can cause health hazards, property damage, and tenant discomfort. Contact a professional plumber to address the problem urgently and mitigate any potential health risks.

Understanding what constitutes an emergency in property management is essential for protecting your property, ensuring tenant safety, and maintaining a positive landlord-tenant relationship. Promptly responding to emergencies demonstrates your commitment to tenant well-being and property maintenance. Establish clear communication channels, emergency protocols, and relationships with reliable contractors to handle emergencies efficiently. By being proactive and prepared, you can effectively manage emergencies and minimize potential risks and disruptions for both yourself and your tenants.

Emergencies can happen at any time and often happen at the worst times. Jones Assurance Property Management helps landlords deal with property emergencies by answering maintenance calls 24/7 and has vendors ready to act quickly. Let us take the burden off of your emergency maintenance by calling us today!