Managing a lift portfolio of nearly 500 units across multiple locations is no small feat. For one property management company, a scattered approach involving 34 different lift contractors led to a cascade of challenges:
- Inefficient communication
- Inconsistent service levels
- Varied coverage of parts and exclusions
The fragmented system not only consumed valuable time but also drove up costs and left the portfolio vulnerable to unpredictable issues. The solution? A strategic overhaul that streamlined processes, improved service delivery, and delivered measurable benefits.
The Investigation: Untangling the Contract Web
The first step was to delve into the existing lift maintenance arrangements. Each lift was matched to its corresponding contract, with a focus on understanding service levels and identifying termination periods. This comprehensive audit revealed the full extent of the inconsistencies and inefficiencies that had built up over time.
Crafting a Tailored Solution
Armed with this insight, we developed a bespoke lift maintenance contract tailored specifically to the client’s requirements. Key priorities included:
- Establishing uniform service levels across the portfolio
- Ensuring comprehensive coverage of lift components, regardless of cost
- Simplifying management by reducing the number of contractors
The contract was then competitively tendered to a carefully curated list of approved service providers. This approach ensured the client could choose from contractors with proven expertise and reliability while driving value for money.
Transformative Results
The benefits of the new lift maintenance contract were immediate and far-reaching:
1. Simplified Management
By reducing the number of contractors from 34 to just 4, the client gained a more manageable structure for their lift portfolio. Standardised service levels meant fewer administrative headaches and greater clarity in communication.
2. Cost Savings
The unified approach eliminated hidden costs and unpredictable expenses. With all parts covered under the new maintenance provision—regardless of value—the client no longer had to worry about unexpected bills.
3. Improved Efficiency
Invoice dates were synchronised, streamlining the accounts process and saving the accounts team valuable time. Service monitoring became more effective, allowing breakdowns to be quickly addressed and recurring issues to be flagged for resolution.
4. Enhanced Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
With service visits and response times now closely monitored, the portfolio saw a marked improvement in KPIs. Faster response times and better preventative maintenance reduced downtime, enhancing the experience for end users.
The Power of a Bespoke Lift Maintenance Contract
This optimised lift maintenance solution underscores the importance of a proactive and strategic approach. By addressing inefficiencies head-on, property managers can achieve significant savings, enhance operational efficiency, and improve the overall performance of their lift portfolios.
If you’re grappling with similar challenges or want to learn more about enhancing lift maintenance for your building, get in touch with us today. We’ll be happy to help you explore solutions tailored to your needs.