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Emergencies don’t always happen during business hours. Whether you’re a property owner who wants peace of mind or a tenant unsure of what qualifies as an emergency, it’s important to know that systems are in place to handle urgent situations quickly and effectively. At SPM Residential Services, our emergency maintenance process ensures properties are protected 24/7 while tenants get the support they need.
Emergency Protection for Owners
As an owner, you can rest easy knowing that your property is safeguarded around the clock. Our after-hours call center is available 24/7 to handle true emergencies such as HVAC failures, flooding, or fires. We also rely on trusted vendors, professionals we’ve vetted and partnered with, to respond when urgent issues arise.
Our team is trained to troubleshoot before sending out a vendor, helping avoid unnecessary after-hours fees. For example, if a tenant reports an electrical issue, we may walk them through checking the breaker or GFI outlet first. This balance of urgency and cost ensures problems are solved efficiently without added stress or expense. Owners are kept informed of emergency issues, but never burdened with late-night calls. We handle the situation and provide updates once the issue is under control.
What Counts as an Emergency?
For tenants, understanding what qualifies as an emergency helps us respond more effectively. Emergencies include situations that threaten safety or make a home uninhabitable, such as:
No heat in winter (below 55°F inside or per local laws)
No air conditioning in extreme heat
No running water (complete loss of water supply)
Sewer backup (toilets, sinks, or tubs overflowing with sewage)
Major water leaks (burst pipes, flooding, or roof leaks causing active water intrusion)
Gas leak (smell of gas — call the gas company first, then notify management)
Electrical hazards (sparks, burning smell, smoking outlets, or total loss of power to unit not due to utility outage)
Fire (call 911 first, then notify management)
Broken exterior doors or windows that prevent securing the home
If the home is unsafe to live in, it’s an emergency.
However, not everything falls into this category, and should be handled by submitting a maintenance request. You can find this form on our website, and once we receive a request, we will work to schedule service as soon as possible. Things that are not considered emergencies include:
Locked out of the property (contact a locksmith)
Dripping faucet or small under-sink leak caught in a container
One burner on stove not working
Slow drains or minor clogs in sinks/tubs
No hot water (unless the total lack of hot water affects the entire home)
Running toilet (if still operational)
No air conditioning during mild weather
Cosmetic damage (chipped paint, loose cabinet door, minor floor scratches)
Broken blinds, screens, or light fixtures
Pest issues (unless they present an immediate health hazard — report promptly during business hours)
Appliance repairs (washer, dryer, dishwasher) unless causing flooding or an electrical hazard
Our emergency maintenance system is designed to give owners peace of mind and tenants the support they need, no matter the hour. By balancing cost, urgency, and clear communication, we ensure properties are always protected and tenants feel secure in their homes.
If you’re a property owner interested in learning more about how we safeguard your investment, or a tenant with questions about maintenance, don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re here to help 24/7.