What does a caretaker do?

A caretaker is often an extension of the property manager of a building. A caretaker usually isn’t present fulltime. This person is a direct point of contact for the tenants and their goal is to contribute to the wellfare and enjoyment of the tenants.

Problem solving

During the time present in the building, the caretaker usually has a full schedule. This usually includes taking care of any problems inside the building. Most of these are smaller issues, such as a leaky tap, a blocked drain etc. The caretaker will work to find quick and efficient solutions.

Monitoring safety

A good caretaker monitors the buildings’ safety. When present, the caretaker will make their “rounds” of and around the building as a preventative measure. During these rounds, the fire security systems, access systems and general safety codes are checked. The caretaker also ensures that the house rules that apply in the building are complied with by the tenants.

Coordinator

Work is often carried out in or around a building and goods are delivered by external businesses or suppliers. Another important responsibilty the caretaker has, is to coordinate all of this. He or she ensures the necessary repairs and maintenance are carried out in time and that it causes the tenants as little nuisance as possible. The cartaker also maintains the communcal areas of the building, which includes cleaning the hallways, staircases and other shared spaces, so that these are always neat and tidy.

Point of contact

A caretaker is also the main point of contact for tenants and functions as the link between tenants and property maintenance and/or landlord. Whether it is dealing with complaints, requesting repairs or reporting nuisance, the caretaker is ready to help and support the tenants.

The caretaker plays an essential part in improving a pleasant and well-organised environment voor all tenants.

Written by:

Marije Lim | m.lim@interhouse.nl

Marije Lim (1977) has been a co-owner of Interhouse Nederland and Interhouse Property Management Lisse since 2006. After completing her business economics studies at HES in Amsterdam and working various jobs, she joined the established Interhouse Rental Agents in 1999. She primarily focuses on property management tasks and financial matters. Now over 25 years have passed. Marije works daily at the headquarters, where she handles financial, administrative, and supportive tasks for her direct colleagues, as well as for other Interhouse branches. Marije and her property management team, based at the headquarters in Lisse, oversee property portfolios in the Duin- en Bollenstreek, Haarlemmermeer, Amsterdam, and surrounding areas. In doing so, they provide comprehensive support for landlords from A to Z. She is exceptionally experienced and a true specialist in the field of property management.

Go back

More from our blog:

18 November, 2025

Temporarily letting a property meant for your studying child, this is how it works afer July 1st 2024

When Will and Lilian heard their daughter Sophie was accepted at Leiden University, they couldn't wait to celebrate!

02 October, 2025

Temporary letting through the Vacancy Act: how to avoid vacancy and high costs

Jack always loved living in his ‘tiny house’. But when he fell back in love with his childhood-sweetheart after 40 years, it turned out that she ...

11 September, 2025

Temporary living arrangements in divorce situations: how short-term rental offers a solution

John has been a real estate investor for years and, just like many others, focussed on starter properties, rental properties and transforming ...