ABSTRACT
It is central to the effective management of properties that essential repairs are executed at the appropriate time. In most cases where a prompt response is not achieved, this is due to a combination of factors. The housing manager may lack time, expertise or assertiveness and may be satisfied that once the works are ordered, his or her own responsibility ceases. Those responsible for carrying out the works may set priorities not by the need for the works to be executed but by the availability of skilled workers and materials. The use of external contractors can pose the same problems and, in many cases, increase the diversity of conflicting priorities.
