The Value of Having a General Contractor for All Sustaining Work

For property owners, maintaining the longevity, functionality, and value of their real estate assets is a top priority. However, property upkeep is a complex task that requires ongoing attention, specialized skills, and reliable management. One of the most effective ways to streamline this process is by partnering with a General Contractor (GC) who oversees all sustaining work for your building. Unlike hiring multiple vendors for different maintenance needs, a single general contractor offers a comprehensive solution that ensures consistency, cost-efficiency, and quality control. In this blog, we’ll explore the various aspects of sustaining work, the critical role of a general contractor, and the many benefits of partnering with Perlo for your property management needs.

What Is Sustaining Work?

Sustaining work refers to the ongoing maintenance, repairs, and upgrades required to keep a property functional, safe, and visually appealing. Unlike major renovations or new construction, sustaining work is focused on preserving the integrity of a building and preventing costly failures. It encompasses a broad range of services, including:

1. Preventative Maintenance

• Routine inspections of building systems, including HVAC, plumbing, and electrical components.
• Proactive measures, such as sealing cracks, checking for water leaks, and replacing aging materials before they fail.
• Seasonal upkeep, such as winterizing pipes, gutter cleaning, and landscaping maintenance.

2. Repairs and Emergency Fixes

• Quick response to plumbing leaks, electrical malfunctions, and structural damage.
• Roof patching, drywall repairs, and flooring replacements.
• Addressing HVAC failures and other urgent system breakdowns.

3. Upgrades and Modifications

• Improving energy efficiency through insulation, LED lighting conversions, and updated HVAC systems.
• Modernizing interiors with new finishes, flooring, or layout adjustments, either speculatively or for particular tenants.
• Implementing technology upgrades, such as smart building controls or security systems.

4. Compliance and Safety Improvements

• Ensuring the property meets updated building codes and regulations.
• Fire safety and alarm system maintenance.
• ADA compliance modifications for accessibility.

Sustaining work is an ongoing necessity for any property owner, and having a structured, well-managed approach is essential to avoiding unexpected costs and disruptions.

The Role of a General Contractor in Sustaining Work

A General Contractor (GC) is a professional who oversees construction, maintenance, and repair projects from start to finish. While GCs are often associated with large-scale construction projects, they also play a critical role in sustaining work. Rather than hiring multiple subcontractors or vendors for different maintenance tasks, property owners can leverage a single GC to manage all sustaining work efficiently.

3. Cost Savings Through Efficiency and Bulk Pricing

A general contractor has established relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and labor teams, allowing them to negotiate bulk pricing and cost-effective solutions. This means property owners pay less than they would if they hired multiple service providers individually. Additionally, by bundling multiple sustaining work tasks into a single contract, a GC can minimize travel time, mobilization costs, and administrative expenses.

4. Faster Response to Emergencies

When a property owner works with multiple vendors, emergency repairs often involve delays due to availability and scheduling conflicts. A GC, on the other hand, has a network of pre-vetted subcontractors and can quickly mobilize a team to address urgent issues, reducing downtime and preventing further damage.

Perlo has an after-hours emergency line that notifies our teams in the event of emergencies. Simply call 503.624.2090 to contact us.
Our sister company, Reimers & Jolivette Construction, also has an after-hours line. Call 503.228.7691 any time to reach our team.

5. Expertise in Building Systems and Preventative Maintenance

A general contractor understands the full scope of a building’s structural and mechanical systems. This expertise allows them to:

• Identify small issues before they become major problems.
• Recommend proactive maintenance strategies that extend the life of building components.
• Ensure that all maintenance work complies with local building codes and safety regulations.

6. Better Budgeting and Long-Term Planning

Property owners often struggle with unexpected maintenance costs due to unforeseen breakdowns or unplanned repairs. A GC can help establish a predictable maintenance schedule and provide cost estimates for long-term property upkeep. This allows owners to plan their budgets more effectively and avoid financial surprises.

How to Utilize a General Contractor for Sustaining Work

If you’re a property owner looking to maximize the benefits of a general contractor for sustaining work, here’s how to make the most of the partnership:

1. Establish a Long-Term Relationship

Rather than hiring a GC for one-off projects, develop a long-term partnership. This allows the contractor to become familiar with your property’s needs, anticipate potential issues, and offer cost-saving solutions.

2. Define a Clear Scope of Work

Before signing a contract, outline the specific services and responsibilities the GC will handle. A well-defined agreement should include:

• Routine inspections and preventative maintenance schedules.
• Emergency response protocols.
• Long-term repair and upgrade planning.
• Labor, materials, taxes and fee billing rates and/or markups.

3. Implement a Preventative Maintenance Strategy

A GC can work with you to create a proactive maintenance plan that minimizes unexpected repairs. This includes managing regular inspections of:

• HVAC and electrical systems.
• Plumbing infrastructure.
• Roofing and gutter systems.
• Interior finishes, flooring, and exterior façade maintenance.

4. Utilize the GC’s Subcontractor Network

A general contractor has access to a wide range of specialized subcontractors, from electricians and plumbers to painters and roofers. Leveraging this network ensures you’re getting qualified professionals without the need to research and vet new service providers every time.

5. Track Performance and Costs

Maintain records of all maintenance work performed, costs incurred, and response times. A good GC will provide detailed reporting on completed work and recommendations for future maintenance. This data helps property owners make informed decisions about their assets.

Final Thoughts

A general contractor is a valuable asset for any property owner looking to simplify and improve sustaining work. Instead of managing multiple vendors, contracts, and unexpected repairs, property owners can benefit from a single trusted partner who oversees all aspects of maintenance and upkeep.

With cost savings, faster response times, and better-quality control, working with a GC for sustaining work ensures a property remains in top condition, retains its value, and operates efficiently. By establishing a long-term partnership, defining clear expectations, and implementing a preventative maintenance strategy, property owners can reduce stress, minimize costs, and maximize the lifespan of their investment. If you’re interested in discovering how we can help you take care of your property more effectively, don’t hesitate to reach out to Perlo!