Managing Resident Expectations During Utility or City Service Changes can be stressful. From trash collection changes to water restrictions, city policies can disrupt residents. How property managers respond makes all the difference. Starting October, most SDGE customers will see a new $24 charge on their monthly statement. This is listed as a “base service charge”.
Tips for Effective Communication
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Notify tenants early about upcoming changes.
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Explain why the change is happening and how it affects their responsibilities.
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Offer guidance or alternatives when possible, such as arranging private service options.
Challenges
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Residents may blame property managers for city mismanagement.
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Emergency situations (like trash service delays) require fast, calm responses.
Conclusion
Clear, proactive communication preserves resident satisfaction and protects owners’ investments. This new fee right after the new trash debacle has made for a very interesting year. Experienced property managers like FBS know how to navigate these challenges efficiently.