GMT 24:7

[shanagarry]

Does anybody have experience of GMT 24:7 (property maintenance) and if so are they good, bad or indifferent?

I'm not totally clear as to their service offering as their website and advertising is not 'crystal clear'. I can see it is a form of membership scheme where you get a few 'benefits' - but wondered if calling our own tradesmen, without the membership fee would be better or equal?

Regretfully the entire Property Management/Maintenance sector has been tainted by a few unsavoury characters who have, in my opinion ruined it for the good-guys and makes my type of due diligence essential

[widge]

No experience of them so can't comment but I would say that I think it is an overstetement to suggest that the "entire maintenance / property management sector" are tainted.

I have not had a bad experience in 7 years of home ownership in Portugal, sometimes I have been overcharged but that's my fault.

[shanagarry]

You are the lucky one - many others have not been so fortunate ( many members of this Forum) and would certainly not share your sentiment

[sam]

One of the other problems is getting maintenance firms to reply/quote. We had two small jobs (100+ euros each), and despite contacting several companies only one responded for each. They both did a good job, at a reasonable price and were reliable. Not only will I be using them again, but I have recommended them to others. We now have some larger jobs need doing - providing the price is right, guess who we will be using. Presumably the other firms could not see the fact that it was a small job, but it could lead to more work. Or do they not want work?

[Bruce Wallis]

There is still this Portuguese mindset that seems to say..."Ahhh English....therefore, think of a number, double it, then add a nought!"

I have discovered a couple of ex-pat brits who are a lot more realistic, and do a good job.

One thing that DOES piss me off.....you employ a Management Company, and a maid....yet you still see and item on your bill for 20 euros for a maintenance man to change a couple of lightbulbs!!
I made it clear to my management company that I consider such simple items to fall within THEIR remit!