What an annual maintenance contract should cover

An annual maintenance contract (AMC) can save a lot of trouble, but only if you know what you're actually buying. Before you sign, get clear answers to these questions.

How many visits are planned?

Ask how many preventive visits are included each year and what happens on each one. "Regular maintenance" means little unless the contract spells it out.

Which systems are covered?

A typical AMC covers air conditioning, electrical and plumbing. Some also include painting touch-ups, pest control or water tank cleaning. Check the list against your property.

Are materials and spare parts included?

This is the most common source of disputes. Find out whether parts are included, capped, or charged separately, and how those charges are approved.

How are call-outs handled?

Ask how emergencies are reported, how quickly someone will respond, whether call-outs are unlimited, and what's covered outside working hours.

What records will you receive?

A visit report after each service shows what was done and what's about to need attention. That record is also useful if you later sell or hand over the property.

Check VAT and the renewal terms

Confirm whether the quoted price includes 5% VAT, whether the contract renews automatically, and what the notice period is.

Want a contract built around your property? Tell us about it and we'll put a scope together.