How to Be Property Maintenance Worker - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 17, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Property Maintenance Workers play a vital role in ensuring that buildings are in good condition and functioning properly. Their work can have a direct cause and effect impact on the safety, comfort, and value of a property. They identify and repair damages, such as broken windows, leaking roofs, and faulty wiring.

They also inspect properties and make sure they meet safety guidelines, such as making sure fire extinguishers are in working order. Their efforts help to prevent fires and other disasters, as well as ensure a comfortable environment for tenants. Furthermore, proper maintenance can increase the value of the property, helping owners to maximize their profits.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Most employers require that property maintenance workers have at least a high school diploma or GED.
Get formal training. Some employers may prefer that you take a formal training program in property maintenance. Training programs typically cover topics such as basic carpentry, plumbing, electrical systems, and landscaping.
Gain experience. Many employers prefer to hire property maintenance workers with some prior experience in the field. Gain experience by volunteering your time to help people with maintenance tasks or getting an entry-level job with a property maintenance company.
Get certified. Some states and local governments require property maintenance workers to be certified in certain areas, such as pest control or hazardous materials handling. Check with your local government to find out if you need to obtain any certifications in order to work as a property maintenance worker.
Obtain a license. Depending on the state you live in, you may need to obtain a license to work as a property maintenance worker. Check with your state's licensing board for more information about licensure requirements for your area.

A successful property maintenance worker requires a combination of technical knowledge, physical strength, and customer service skills. To be ideal and qualified for this position, one must have a strong understanding of electrical systems, plumbing, carpentry, and HVAC systems, as well as the ability to troubleshoot and repair any issues that arise. it is essential that they are able to lift and move heavy objects, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces.

Lastly, they must have excellent customer service skills and the ability to communicate clearly with customers and co-workers. With these skills, a property maintenance worker can ensure the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of customers while keeping the property in top condition.

You may want to check Property Maintenance Technician, Property Inspector, and Lease Administrator for alternative.

Job Description

Inspect and repair plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems
Maintain exterior of buildings and grounds by mowing, pruning, and trimming trees and shrubs
Perform minor carpentry and painting tasks
Replace light bulbs, fuses, and other minor electrical repairs
Repair, replace, or install doors, windows, flooring, and other fixtures
Respond to emergency maintenance requests and perform necessary repairs
Monitor inventory of tools and supplies and order new items when needed
Conduct regular safety inspections and maintain records
Follow safety protocols when working with hazardous materials or equipment
Perform snow removal, debris clean-up, and other outdoor maintenance tasks as needed

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of safety standards, building codes and regulations
Knowledge of basic carpentry, plumbing, electrical and painting skills
Ability to read blueprints and diagrams
Ability to troubleshoot and repair mechanical systems
Ability to use hand and power tools
Ability to lift and carry heavy objects
Ability to climb ladders and work in confined spaces
Knowledge of landscaping and gardening
Ability to operate snow removal equipment
Customer service skills

Being a Property Maintenance Worker requires a wide variety of essential skills and knowledge. One of the most important skills to have is problem-solving. In order to properly maintain a property, the maintenance worker must be able to identify and resolve any issues that arise.

This includes troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems, diagnosing plumbing problems, and understanding how to make repairs and replacements. Problem-solving skills also extend to being able to understand building codes, regulations, and safety standards, as well as coordinating with professional contractors when necessary. Furthermore, the ability to multi-task, prioritize tasks, and manage time is essential for a property maintenance worker as they often need to take care of multiple maintenance requests at any given time.

With these skills, a Property Maintenance Worker can ensure that any building under their care remains safe and in top condition.

Residential Leasing Manager, Residential Property Manager, and Property Management Assistant are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in property maintenance?
How do you handle difficult customer service situations?
Describe a project that you have completed involving property maintenance.
What safety protocols do you follow when completing maintenance work?
What methods do you use to prioritize tasks?
What steps do you take to ensure quality of work while meeting deadlines?
How do you stay up to date on best practices and trends in property maintenance?
Can you explain how you troubleshoot equipment problems?
What techniques do you use to communicate effectively with customers and team members?
Do you have experience using technology for maintenance-related tasks?

Common Tools in Industry

Hammer. a tool for pounding nails or other objects, (eg: for pounding nails into a wall).
Screwdriver. a tool used to turn screws and bolts, (eg: for tightening screws on furniture).
Wrench. a device used to grip and turn nuts, bolts, and other fasteners, (eg: for tightening a pipe).
Pliers. a tool used for gripping, twisting, and bending, (eg: for gripping wire to cut it).
Drill. a tool used for making holes, (eg: for drilling holes in drywall).
Saw. a tool used for cutting materials, (eg: for cutting wood).
Paint brush. a tool used to apply paint, (eg: for painting a fence).
Ladder. a device used to reach higher heights, (eg: for cleaning windows).
Power washer. a device used to clean outdoor surfaces with high pressure water, (eg: for cleaning dirt off siding).
Extension cord. an electrical device used to extend power from an outlet to another location, (eg: for powering a drill in an area without an outlet).

Professional Organizations to Know

National Apartment Association
Building Owners and Managers Association
National Maintenance Agreements Policy Committee
Professional Property Management Association
International Facility Management Association
National Association of Home Builders
National Roofing Contractors Association
National Painting Contractors Association
National Electrical Contractors Association
National Fire Protection Association

We also have Landlord, Tenant Relations Manager, and Resident Caretaker jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Building Maintenance. The maintenance and upkeep of a buildings physical structure, systems and equipment.
Landscaping. The process of planning, designing and managing the outdoor spaces of a property.
HVAC System. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system used to regulate the temperature and humidity of a building.
Plumbing. The installation, repair and maintenance of water lines, drains and other plumbing systems.
Electrical Systems. The installation, repair and maintenance of electrical wiring and other electrical systems.
Janitorial Services. The cleaning and upkeep of a buildings interior.
Painting. The application of paint, wallpaper, staining and other protective coatings to the interior or exterior of a building.
Carpentry. The installation, repair and maintenance of wooden structures, fixtures, furniture and other items.
Roofing. The installation, repair and maintenance of a buildings roof and related systems.
Flooring. The installation, repair and maintenance of hardwood, tile, carpet, linoleum and other flooring materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of a Property Maintenance Worker?

The primary responsibility of a Property Maintenance Worker is to maintain the upkeep and appearance of a property, including performing maintenance and repair tasks, ensuring safety standards are met, and maintaining accurate records.

What qualifications and experience are needed to become a Property Maintenance Worker?

To become a Property Maintenance Worker, an individual typically needs to have a high school diploma or equivalent and have experience working with basic repair and maintenance tools. Previous experience in a similar field is usually preferred.

What type of tasks does a Property Maintenance Worker typically perform?

Typical tasks performed by a Property Maintenance Worker include cleaning and painting buildings, inspecting for structural integrity and safety, repairing and replacing damaged fixtures, conducting preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting mechanical problems.

What kind of tools does a Property Maintenance Worker need to use?

A Property Maintenance Worker typically needs to use basic tools such as hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, drills, saws, and other hand tools as well as power tools when performing repairs.

How often does a Property Maintenance Worker need to document their work?

A Property Maintenance Worker typically needs to document their work on a daily basis, including any maintenance and repair tasks performed, supplies used, and other relevant information.