Caretakers are responsible for looking after buildings such as hotels, office blocks, flats or shopping centres and maintaining them in a clean and orderly condition. They ensure that the air-conditioning, boilers, and facilities are kept in good working order.
The caretaker is also responsible for supervising: cleaning of hallways, stairs and offices; emptying of waste-paper bins and garbage collection; painting; plumbing repairs; electrical wiring; replacing air-conditioner filters; notifying management of the need for major repairs or additions to lighting, heating and ventilation equipment; mowing lawns and trimming hedges and shrubs.
In addition to these general maintenance duties, the caretaker is responsible for cautioning tenants regarding complaints about excessive noise, disorderly conduct, or misuse of property. They also advertize vacancies and show flats and offices to prospective tenants.
Satisfying Aspects
- variety of work
- generally low stress
- dealing with people
Demanding aspects
- dealing with theft of items and tenants’ complaints
- trying to keep within budget on expenses and cost of repairs
Requirements
A caretaker should:
- be responsible;
- have integrity;
- have good supervisory and organisational skills;
- have good interpersonal and communication skills;
- be firm but friendly.
School Subjects
No specific requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: None
Training
Experience and knowledge are gained through in-service training. However, previous training and experience in a trade, such as a plumber, electrician, etc. or experience in a supervisory or managerial position, would be advantageous.
Employer
- companies that own office blocks
- hotels
- owners of blocks of residential accommodation
- holiday flats and cottages
- self-employment, some caretakers look after several buildings on a freelance basis
Contact
Any of the above potential employers.