Where to Find Reliable Contractors and Property Management Staff
As your rental property portfolio grows, you'll need reliable contractors, maintenance professionals, and potentially property management staff. Finding quality people who are trustworthy, skilled, and reasonably priced can be challenging. This guide covers the best places to find and vet professionals for your property management needs.
Building a network of reliable contractors and staff is one of the most important investments you can make as a property owner. Good people make your life easier and protect your investments.
1 / Contractor Referral Networks
The best contractors often come through referrals from other property owners, real estate agents, or property management companies. Local property owner associations, real estate investment groups, and online forums are excellent sources for contractor recommendations.
Vetting contractors effectively
Always check references, verify licenses and insurance, and get multiple quotes. Start with smaller jobs to test reliability before entrusting larger projects. A contractor who shows up on time, communicates well, and does quality work on a small repair is likely to be reliable for bigger projects.
2 / Online Platforms for Contractors
Platforms like Thumbtack, Angi (formerly Angie's List), HomeAdvisor, and TaskRabbit can help you find contractors in your area. These platforms provide reviews, ratings, and background checks, making it easier to find qualified professionals.
Best Practice: When using online platforms, look for contractors with multiple positive reviews from property owners specifically. Contractors who understand rental property needs—like quick turnaround times and tenant-friendly scheduling—are often better choices than those who only work with homeowners.
3 / Local Trade Associations & Licensing Boards
Local trade associations and licensing boards maintain directories of licensed professionals. These are excellent resources for finding plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians, and other specialized contractors who meet professional standards.
Licensed professionals typically have insurance, follow building codes, and maintain professional standards. While they may cost more than unlicensed contractors, the peace of mind and quality work are usually worth the investment, especially for rental properties where code compliance is essential.
Building Your Property Management Team
As you scale, you may need property management staff. Here are resources to help: