Services are typically provided under contract, either as part of a regular maintenance service or on a ‘reactive’ basis in response to unplanned call-outs or one-off emergencies.

Although some property maintenance services carry out work for private homeowners, this profile focuses on the issues affecting those that carry out work primarily for commercial property owners. Information about property maintenance for private homeowners is available in our guides; General Builder, Handyman, Carpenter/Joiner and Painter and Decorator.

Typical work carried out by property maintenance services includes carpentry, roofing, plumbing, painting and decorating and general refurbishment. Common jobs include unblocking drains, fixing guttering, replacing decking, and repairing doors and windows, and can range in extent from fixing a single leaky tap to fitting a complete kitchen or bathroom suite.

This profile provides information about starting up and operating a property maintenance service for commercial customers. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support.