According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), maintenance costs for residential properties in Australia amount to around 9% of the total property value. This underscores the importance of effective communication between property managers, owners and tradies for improved quality of tasks, efficiency, and cost savings.
Here are some quick tips to empower tradies through effective instruction delivery:
Utilise Detailed Work Orders
Work orders serve as a vital tool for conveying instructions to tradies. As a property manager or homeowner, you must add specific details, including:
- Scope of work
- Preferred materials or brands
- Desired timeline
- Any special considerations or safety protocols
Clear instructions eliminate ambiguity and enable tradie workers to have a precise understanding of the task at hand. This helps minimise mistakes, rework, and potential delays, resulting in faster job completion and reduced costs.
Prioritise Written Communication
Written communication ensures clarity and serves as a reference for homeowners, property managers, and tradies. Use email, digital platforms, or work order management systems to provide detailed instructions in writing. This not only helps tradie workers accurately comprehend the requirements but also creates a documented record of the instructions and any agreed-upon terms or changes.
Include Visual References
Visual references, like photographs or diagrams, can significantly enhance communication and eliminate any confusion or misinterpretation. Use annotated images or sketches to illustrate specific areas that require attention or demonstrate the desired outcome. This leads to a higher chance of accurate execution and minimises the need for revisions or corrections.
Provide Access to Property Documentation
Property owners and managers should ensure that tradies have access to relevant property documentation, including building plans, manuals, or any previous work history. This information equips tradies with valuable insights into the property’s infrastructure, potential challenges, and past maintenance or repair work. Such knowledge allows tradie workers to plan and execute their tasks more efficiently, reducing time spent on diagnostics and enabling them to address issues promptly and effectively.
Encourage Open Communication Channels
Encourage tradies to ask questions, seek clarifications, or provide suggestions if they encounter any challenges or foresee potential improvements. Regular check-ins, progress updates, and the availability of a point of contact for queries can help resolve issues promptly and ensure that instructions are being followed accurately.
With over 25 years of experience, we’ve collaborated with thousands of property managers and homeowners in New South Wales and Queensland, helping to streamline their repairs and maintenance projects. Our system allows for straightforward communication, requiring just a single email or phone call to handle issues.
If you would like a free quote for sealing or regrouting your shower or balcony, just fill out the form here or call 1300 888 806.
