When to group or separate work orders.

Learn the best way to submit multiple maintenance requests as a tenant at one of our properties.

We have a list of all of our recommendations on work order best practices here, but let's cover specifically submitting a few requests at one time. If you have a few issues happening at once, here are some examples of when it is best to group work orders or when to keep work orders separate.

When to submit work orders separately.

Work orders should be kept separate when they would not be handled by the same type of specialist and especially when they are not of the same level of urgency. For example, if there is an active leak but there is also a request to repair a walkway, these work orders should be filed as different requests. In this example, not only would a different professional handle each issue, but one is far more urgent than the other.

When to group work orders.

Simply, when the maintenance requests are similar in nature. For example, if the sink isn't working and there is a leak in another faucet, both would be handled by a plumber and would be best to be created together. However, if there is a pest problem and a request to replace the front door, these should be placed separately to expedite your request.

Here are some examples of what professional may handle different requests:

• Appliance issues: any issues with a washer, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, garage doors, or other property management-provided appliance. 

• City/utility company issues: downed power lines, water main issues, electric meter issues, potholes, or downed trees in community areas (off property boundaries).

• Concrete and brick issues: damage to driveways, walkways, concrete patios, brick exterior, or chimneys.
• Electrical issues: outlets malfunctioning, loss of power to appliances or sections of the home, or shock risk.
• Exterior plumbing issues: septic issues or sewage back-up.
• Foundation Issues: cracked or leaning foundation.
• General contractor issues: minor repairs and replacements (not specialty work listed in other categories on this page).
• HVAC issues: furnace or air conditioner malfunctioning or damaged ventilation, air conditioning unit or furnace. 
• Interior plumbing issues: water leaks (from sinks, tubs, or toilets) or clogged/"backed-up" indoor plumbing (like sinks, tubs, toilets).
• Pest issues: mice, insects, or live animals found inside the property.
• Roofing issues: missing or damaged shingles, fallen or damaged gutters, or weather damage (such as hail). 
• Siding Issues: damaged siding, graffiti, or missing siding.
• Tree and landscaping issues: downed trees on the property, overgrown bushes, or risk of deadfall from trees on the property.
• Window or sliding door issues: broken, malfunctioning, or damaged windows, sliding doors, or skylights.