Beyond the Work: Tales in Multifamily Maintenance

Pets are more than companions—they're family. But for multifamily housing operators and maintenance professionals, pets also bring important conversations about safety, liability, documentation, and operational costs.
In this episode of Beyond the Work, host Chris Caramanica welcomes K. David Meit https://www.linkedin.com/in/kdavidmeit/, Principal of Oculus Realty, and Victoria Cowart https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-cowart-cpm-naaei-faculty-3745984/, Vice President of Education at PetScreening, for the second episode of the Beyond Pet Friendly: The Future of Pets in Rental Housing series.
Using insights from PetScreening's 2026 State of Pets in Rental Housing Report, the conversation explores how pet ownership is reshaping rental housing and why the industry needs to move beyond simply calling communities "pet friendly."
From unregistered pets and unexpected maintenance encounters to dog bite liability and budgeting for pet-related turnover costs, this episode examines how operators can better identify pet-related risk, improve recordkeeping, support maintenance teams, and protect residents, staff, and assets without treating pet visibility as “policing.”
Timestamps
00:00 - Welcome to Beyond The Work and introducing the guest experts
01:59 - How pet ownership changed David Meit’s view of housing
04:05 - Why pets are “the new kids” in households and rentals
06:13 - Pandemic effects, empty nesters, and the changing pet market
08:05 - Why Gen Z and millennials are driving pet demand
09:51 - The hidden problem of unreported pets in leases and paperwork
11:11 - Unknown pets, maintenance challenges, and property-wide risk
12:11 - SOPs, inspections, and using Poo Prints to identify unregistered animals
14:21 - Why maintenance reporting is not “policing” residents
15:28 - Reframing trust, risk, and the duty owed to owners and investors
20:02 - Training staff on the “why” behind pet policy enforcement
21:39 - How to handle serious bite risk and pet scoring thresholds
24:13 - Why pet documentation should never live in someone’s head or on a post-it
27:53 - Why today’s property software should track pet data directly
29:25 - Budgeting turn costs based on pet ownership and turnover risk
31:46 - A simple math model for forecasting pet-related damage expenses
33:18 - Pet fees, pet rent, and how operators recover turn costs
34:56 - PetScreening’s pricing model and education support for the industry
36:42 - How pet visibility improves maintenance safety and reduces unknown risk
37:51 - Storm door procedure lessons from a real maintenance bite incident
39:36 - The consequences of failing to warn communities about known dangerous dogs
41:00 - Breed restrictions, pet behavior, and the role of owner training
44:02 - Combining pet, owner, and policy factors to judge risk fairly
45:06 - Closing thoughts and where to find the 2026 State of the Pets in Rental Housing report
Download the 2026 State of Pets in Rental Housing Report: https://info.petscreening.com/2026-state-of-pets?utm_medium=paid-media-buy&utm_source=multifamily-media-network&utm_campaign=2026_LGEN_LTR_MMN_State_of_Pets_Report&utm_content=Content-Download
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What happens when multifamily stops being about leases and starts being about people?
Host, Chris Caramanica, welcomes Dawn Williams https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnleighwilliams/, a multifamily professional with more than 20 years of experience that has taken her through tax-credit housing, Class C and Class A communities, community management, acquisitions, and a built-to-rent lease-up, for a conversation that spans the real evolution of multifamily operations. From the days when a leasing consultant could hire you on the spot to the modern reality of centralized leasing, aging assets, and maintenance teams expected to solve problems faster than ever.
After two years away, Dawn shares why she wants to return to multifamily because she misses helping residents solve problems and working collaboratively with a team.
Now in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Dawn is also pursuing aerial arts as a performer and teacher and shares how aerial arts offer a creative outlet beyond work.
Timestamps
00:00 - Season two begins, and Dawn Williams joins the show
02:11 - From apartment hunting to a leasing job
04:27 - Why personal connection matters in leasing and recruiting
06:47 - Moving through roles and learning from challenging properties
09:42 - Turning around a financially distressed community
10:33 - What built-to-rent means
12:40 - Daily leaks, HVAC issues, and learning about mold
16:28 - How better diagnostics can help maintenance teams
19:11 - Maintenance in a built-to-rent community
21:34 - Living on-site to understand resident pain points
23:11 - Why Dawn wants to return to multifamily
27:05 - Relocating to Dallas-Fort Worth
28:29 - Aerial arts as a passion beyond work
32:17 - Chris reflects on 11 years with Wynn Companies
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In this episode, host Chris https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-caramanica-3b287666/, and industry expert and Chadwell Supply University Director, Nichole Curl https://www.linkedin.com/in/nichole-curl-7b154638/, share insights on the importance of evolving maintenance training, understanding the why behind the training, and navigating the rapid changes in HVAC technology and regulation. If you're committed to future-proofing your properties and empowering your maintenance teams, this discussion offers critical perspectives.

In this episode:
- Nichole’s background from anatomy and physiology to multifamily maintenance leadership
- The persistent gaps in maintenance training, especially in fair housing and technical skills
- The outdated perception of training being solely hands-on and why a blended approach is essential
- How industry shifts in HVAC refrigerants and regulations impact maintenance and costs
- The importance of understanding the why behind maintenance tasks to improve safety, efficiency, and resident satisfaction
- The impact of COVID on HVAC industry transitions and the story of refrigerant development
- Strategies for investing in maintenance staff, reducing turnover, and aligning skills with future technology trends
- The role of attitude, communication, and the "why" in resident retention and satisfaction
- Predictions for the next five years: the future of multifamily maintenance in a fast-evolving industry
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Nicole Curl and Her Journey

02:08 From Anatomy to Multifamily Maintenance

03:58 Bridging the Gap: Understanding Maintenance and Operations

07:28 The State of Maintenance in the Industry

12:05 Transitioning Refrigerants: The HVAC Challenge

21:30 Recognition and Passion in Training

23:09 The Importance of Understanding 'Why' in Training

26:25 The Debate on Hands-On Training vs. Conceptual Learning

28:13 The Importance of Structured Training

31:00 Evolving Skillsets in Maintenance

33:31 The Cost of Training vs. Operational Efficiency

37:12 First Impressions and Resident Retention

39:57 The Impact of Utility Costs on Resident Choices

43:59 Investing in People for Long-Term Success

47:01 The Future of the Industry: Embracing Change

This episode is brought to you by Chadwell Supply https://www.linkedin.com/company/chadwellsupply/
Chadwell Supply is the largest privately-owned maintenance and renovations supply company in the United States, exclusively serving the multifamily housing industry from local warehouses across the country. Our success is a direct result of a passion for providing unforgettable service. Chadwell Supply is a knowledgeable, solution-oriented partner our customers know they can trust.
To learn more about Chadwell Supply University: https://www.chadwellsupply.com/?utm_source=jennifer_carter&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=multifamily_media_network
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In this episode, Cliff Kornegay https://www.linkedin.com/in/nspirecliffkornegayquadel/ , a key architect of the NSPIRE standards and former HUD expert, shares insights into the development, application, and future of property inspection standards in affordable housing. Cliff discusses the evolution from UPCS to NSPIRE, the importance of focusing on units, and how data and AI are transforming property management.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cliff Kornegay and His Background
04:07 The Journey to NSPIRE Standards
07:06 Cliff's Unique Experiences in Inspections
09:50 Transitioning from HUD to Private Sector
12:49 Understanding the NSPIRE Standards
15:57 Focus on Unit Inspections
18:48 Application of Standards Beyond Affordable Housing
22:00 Reflections on NSPIRE and Future Improvements
25:48 Understanding the New HQS Standards
28:11 Impact of Common Area Inspections
30:51 The Importance of Fire Safety Standards
32:45 The Significance of Understanding 'Why' Behind Standards
37:40 Future Revisions and Clarifications in Standards
43:36 Current Trends in Affordable Housing Management
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#PropertyInsights #InspectionTips #BeyondTheWork #Multifamily #AffordableHousing #NSPIREStandards #PropertyManagement
#HousingInspections #RealEstate #HUD

In this episode, Chris Caramanica interviews Lex Vance [email protected] , the creator of Dirty Maintenance Nation, who shares his journey from a broke musician to a maintenance technician and content creator. Lex discusses the inception of his YouTube channel and Facebook group, which aim to provide training and support for maintenance professionals. He highlights the importance of community, the challenges faced by technicians, and the need for better training and tools in the industry. Lex also shares personal anecdotes and insights on how to improve as a maintenance technician and the significance of investing in one's skills.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Lex Vance and His Journey
03:05 The Birth of Dirty Maintenance Nation
07:11 The Impact of Maintenance Training Videos
11:08 Engaging with the Audience: Responses and Feedback
15:05 Challenges and Misconceptions in Maintenance
19:17 Content Creation: The Process Behind the Videos
23:06 The Karate Kid and Maintenance Training
26:02 Representation of Maintenance Professionals in Media
28:02 Essential Tools for Maintenance Technicians
31:58 The Current Generation of Maintenance Technicians
37:11 Investing in Maintenance Training and Pay
40:00 Advice for Aspiring Maintenance Professionals
43:16 BTW OUTRO.mp4
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#CustomerExperience #PersonalizedService #ActiveListening #CXStrategies #EarnedProspects #CustomerSatisfaction #Referrals #MultifamilyLeadership #ResidentExperience #PropertyManagement

In this conversation, James Duffy of Towne Properties https://www.linkedin.com/company/towne-properties/posts/?feedView=all emphasizes the importance of troubleshooting and understanding failure points in technical work. He advocates for a methodical approach to problem-solving, encouraging individuals to analyze issues deeply rather than simply replacing parts. This approach not only enhances technical skills but also increases one's value in the field.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Multifamily Maintenance
02:37 James Duffy's Journey in Maintenance
05:56 The Pride of Problem Solving
09:32 Team Dynamics and Maintenance Strategies
14:43 Recruitment and Training in a Challenging Market
21:01 The Human Element in Maintenance
21:51 Handling Emergencies with Calm
25:25 The Role of Maintenance Professionals as First Responders
28:57 Recognition and Awards in the Industry
32:27 Life Beyond Work: Family and Hobbies
34:37 Advice for Future Maintenance Professionals

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#CustomerExperience #PersonalizedService #ActiveListening #CXStrategies #EarnedProspects #CustomerSatisfaction #Referrals #MultifamilyLeadership #ResidentExperience #PropertyManagement

In this episode, Chris Caramanica interviews Corey Gregory, linkedin.com/in/corey-gregory-39a094395 a maintenance supervisor with over 20 years of experience in the multifamily industry. Corey shares his journey from starting as a grounds technician to becoming a supervisor, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, employee benefits, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn for professional growth. He discusses the challenges faced in property management, the significance of mentoring the next generation, and balancing work with family life. Corey also shares his aspirations for the future of the maintenance industry, focusing on the need for skilled tradespeople and the impact of technology.
00:00 Introduction to Corey Gregory and His Journey
06:15 The Importance of Employee Benefits in Maintenance
11:23 Embracing LinkedIn for Professional Growth
13:35 Mentoring the Next Generation of Maintenance Professionals
18:09 Learning the Trade: Corey’s Path to Maintenance
24:43 Handling Challenges in Property Management
27:59 Balancing Work and Family Life
30:14 Future Aspirations in the Maintenance Industry
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#CustomerExperience #PersonalizedService #ActiveListening #CXStrategies #EarnedProspects #CustomerSatisfaction #Referrals #MultifamilyLeadership #ResidentExperience #PropertyManagement

In this episode of Beyond the Work, Chris Caramanica interviews Wendell Mollenido, the Vice President of Marketing and Technology at The REMM Group. They discuss Wendell's journey into the multifamily maintenance industry, the challenges of adapting to new laws in California, and the importance of technology in streamlining maintenance processes. The conversation highlights the role of PropTech in enhancing efficiency, the significance of gamification in maintenance management, and the necessity of change management in the industry. Wendell emphasizes the importance of data in future-proofing property management and the need for effective communication with stakeholders regarding technological changes.
00:00 Introduction to Multifamily Maintenance and Guest Background
03:55 Challenges in Property Management
05:50 Understanding Resident Satisfaction
06:42 California Laws Impacting Property Management
07:12 Adapting to New Compliance Requirements
10:30 The Role of Technology in Maintenance
13:09 Streamlining Processes with PropTech
15:42 Data Capture and Its Importance
17:44 Gamification in Maintenance
18:55 Balancing Speed and Quality in Work Orders
21:14 Adoption Challenges of New Technology
24:11 Tech as a Tool in Maintenance
26:07 Overcoming Tech Hesitance
27:34 Feedback and Change Management
31:39 Adapting to Constant Change
33:21 Communicating Change to Owners
34:49 The Importance of New Tools
38:09 Leveraging Data for Decision Making
41:38 Predictive Maintenance and AI
43:03 Future Proofing the Industry
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In this episode of Beyond the Work, host Chris Caramanica interviews Khalil Muhammad, a project manager at Elevate Commercial, who shares his journey into the multifamily maintenance industry. Khalil discusses his early experiences in trades, his transition into real estate investment, and the importance of education and advocacy in the maintenance profession. He emphasizes the need for community involvement and the impact of affordable housing initiatives.
- Khalil started working in trades at a young age.
- He initially wanted to pursue international business.
- Education is crucial for career advancement in maintenance.
- Khalil emphasizes the importance of community advocacy.
- He believes in the value of affordable housing.
- Khalil's journey includes various roles in maintenance and real estate.
- He has a passion for making a difference in his community.
- Khalil encourages others to pursue trades for job security.
- He highlights the significance of certifications in the industry.
- Khalil's story reflects the diverse paths within the maintenance profession.
00:00 Introduction to Khalil Muhammad
02:51 Khalil's Journey into Multifamily Maintenance
11:32 Transitioning to Real Estate and Investments
19:01 The Importance of Education in Maintenance
33:24 Advocacy and Community Involvement
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In this episode of Beyond the Work, Chris Caramanica and Dani Black discuss the multifamily maintenance industry, focusing on the challenges of communication between suppliers and operators. They explore the importance of building relationships, understanding the roles of deciders and gatekeepers, and the need for suppliers to conduct thorough research to effectively engage with potential clients. The conversation emphasizes the significance of trust, honesty, and the evolving landscape of communication in the industry. In this conversation, Chris Caramanica and Dani Black discuss the nuances of effective communication in sales and marketing, the importance of swag, the balance between persistence and harassment, and the need for transparency in partnerships. They emphasize the significance of understanding client needs and the necessity for maintenance professionals to develop sales skills. The discussion also highlights the importance of creating productive conversations and AppWork's commitment to a client-centric approach.
00:00 - Introduction to Multifamily Maintenance and Industry Insights
03:04 - The Challenges of Communication in the Industry
06:07 - Understanding the Role of Deciders and Gatekeepers
08:56 - Building Trust and Relationships in the Industry
11:58 - Navigating Supplier and Operator Dynamics
14:54 - Identifying Ideal Customers and Market Fit
17:52 - Effective Strategies for Supplier Engagement
19:46 - The Art of Effective Communication
21:08 - The Value of Swag in Marketing
22:49 - Persistence vs. Harassment in Sales
25:36 - Building Better Partnerships
26:54 - The Importance of Transparency
29:16 - Understanding Client Needs
31:28 - Sales Skills for Maintenance Professionals
34:33 - Creating Productive Conversations
36:20 - AppWork's Client-Centric Approach
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#CustomerExperience #PersonalizedService #ActiveListening #CXStrategies #EarnedProspects #CustomerSatisfaction #Referrals #MultifamilyLeadership #ResidentExperience #PropertyManagement