Do Property Managers Pay for Repairs?
By: Sam Leonardo | Sept. 10, 2025
A common question from landlords and investors is: do property managers pay for repairs? The short answer is no—property managers don’t usually cover repair costs themselves. Instead, the property owner is responsible for financing most repair work and ongoing property maintenance. The property manager or property management company coordinates and oversees the process, but they are not the ones footing the bill.
That said, there are situations where a management company might cover small fixes or authorize urgent repair services. Let’s take a closer look at how repair costs and maintenance costs are typically handled.
How Repair Costs Usually Work
Owners Pay for Repairs
In nearly all cases, the owner (or landlord) pays for repairs. From broken appliances to roof leaks, these expenses are part of owning a property. A property management company or real estate manager won’t personally pay repairs, but they will manage the entire process on your behalf.
Property Managers Handle Property Maintenance & Minor Repairs
While managers pay little out of pocket, they do handle repairs and schedule repair services. This means hiring contractors, supervising repair work, and ensuring that all property maintenance issues are resolved efficiently. Some management companies even take care of small fixes directly to minimize disruption for the tenant and owner.
Exceptions & Variations
Minor Repairs Costs Included
Some property management companies cover very small tasks, such as changing light bulbs, smoke detector batteries, or other simple repair work, as part of their service fee. These are usually capped at a set cost—often under $100. Anything larger is billed to the owner.
Emergency Authorization
Many contracts allow a property manager to approve urgent repairs without waiting for the landlord’s consent. For example, if a pipe bursts, they might be authorized to spend $300–$500 to limit damage. Beyond that limit, the owner must approve the repair costs.
Premium or Luxury Managers
High-end property management companies sometimes include preventive maintenance and seasonal upkeep in their packages. A luxury management company might even arrange warranty coverage or ongoing repair services. Still, owners are responsible for the big-ticket expenses—premium services don’t mean the company pays for everything.
Tenant-Damage vs. Wear & Tear
If a tenant or guest damages the property, the property manager can use the security deposit or an insurance claim to cover the repair costs, reducing what the landlord pays out of pocket. But normal wear and tear—like paint fading or carpet wearing down—remains the owner’s responsibility.
Key Takeaway
Property Managers Facilitate, Owners Finance
So, do property managers pay for repairs? Not usually. They handle repairs, oversee property maintenance, and ensure things get done, but the repair costs almost always fall on the property owner.
In other words, think of a property management company as your trusted partner in coordinating repair services—not your wallet. They keep your property running smoothly, but at the end of the day, owners pay for the actual work.
Final Word for Investors
Managing repair costs can feel overwhelming, but the right property manager makes the process seamless. They don’t pay the bills, but they ensure every repair is handled quickly, professionally, and with your ROI in mind.
That’s why investors trust Home Team Luxury Rentals. With fees starting at just 10% and a reputation for luxury-level service, Rise Collective takes the stress out of maintenance while maximizing returns.
👉 Ready to partner with a management company that protects your property and your bottom line? Request your free revenue projection with Home Team Luxury Rentals today
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