How to Retain Maintenance Techs in the Multifamily Industry

How to Retain Maintenance Techs in the Multifamily Industry: The Power of PropTech and Beyond

High employee turnover is an all-too-common problem in the multifamily industry, particularly among maintenance technicians. The cost of replacing a single maintenance tech, including training time and lost productivity, can be astronomical. Furthermore, in an industry where high-quality service is key, a revolving door of maintenance staff can damage the resident experience and, ultimately, your bottom line. So, how can we foster an environment where technicians stay, thrive, and deliver their best work? This blog post will explore five powerful strategies for retaining maintenance techs and introduce you to AppWork, a cutting-edge PropTech software that could revolutionize your maintenance retention strategy.

1. Provide Competitive Compensation and Benefits

Firstly, ensure that your compensation packages are competitive within the market. According to the National Apartment Association (NAA), offering competitive pay and benefits is a significant factor in attracting and retaining maintenance staff^{1^}. While salary is crucial, don't forget about benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

2. Invest in Training and Development

Maintenance techs are more likely to stay if they feel they are growing and improving in their roles. Implement a robust training and development program to equip your techs with the skills they need to succeed and advance their careers. The Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) recommends continued education and certification programs^{2^}.

3. Foster a Positive Work Environment

According to renowned industry expert, Brent Williams, the work environment plays a crucial role in retention^{3^}. He suggests fostering a culture that values and respects the work of maintenance techs. Regularly acknowledging their contributions and celebrating their successes can go a long way toward improving job satisfaction and loyalty.

4. Offer Flexible Schedules

Many maintenance techs leave their jobs due to a lack of work-life balance. To combat this, consider offering flexible schedules or job-sharing opportunities. According to a study by the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC), flexible scheduling can significantly improve job satisfaction and employee retention^{4^}.

5. Communicate Regularly and Effectively

Open, honest communication fosters trust and loyalty. Regularly update your team about changes in company policies, potential opportunities for growth, and other pertinent information. Equally, make sure your techs feel comfortable voicing their concerns and ideas. While these strategies form the foundation of a strong retention strategy, technology, specifically PropTech software like AppWork, can bring your efforts to the next level.

The Power of AppWork

AppWork is a revolutionary PropTech software specifically designed to enhance maintenance teams' experience in the multifamily industry. Two of its standout features can significantly boost your retention efforts.

Gamification of Maintenance

Gamification involves applying game-design elements to non-game contexts. In AppWork, this is manifested through a badge system. As your maintenance techs complete tasks or achieve specific milestones, they earn badges that recognize their hard work and expertise. This approach not only makes work more fun and engaging but also boosts motivation and satisfaction.

Technician Tipping Feature

In many industries, tipping is a recognized way to reward outstanding service. AppWork brings this concept to the multifamily maintenance sector through its anonymous technician tipping feature. Residents can give extra thanks for a job well done, providing an additional incentive for techs to deliver exceptional service.

By making work more engaging and rewarding exceptional service, AppWork encourages maintenance techs to stick around and continuously improve their performance.

High employee turnover is a pressing issue in the multifamily industry. But, with strategic approaches and the aid of innovative PropTech software like AppWork, you can create an environment where maintenance techs not only want to stay but also thrive.

References: Apartment Association. (2021). The Importance of Competitive Compensation in the Apartment Industry of Real Estate Management. (2022). The Importance of Training and Development in the Real Estate Industry B. (2023). Creating a Positive Work Environment in the Multifamily Industry Multifamily Housing Council. (2022). The Impact of Flexible Scheduling on Employee Retention