How many times have you heard your tenant say, ‘I didn’t get your email”?

In today’s digital world, where emails and messages are overlooked, important information can easily get lost. For property managers, that means missed updates, unanswered maintenance requests, and frustrated tenants.

One of the most effective solutions is surprisingly simple: the fridge notice.

A fridge notice is a short, printed, or handwritten message placed in a high-traffic area like the kitchen. It may seem old-fashioned, but it is consistently seen, understood, and acted upon.

Why the Fridge Works

The fridge is a central spot in any shared living space. Tenants visit it several times a day, whether they are grabbing coffee, prepping meals, or just taking a break. This routine behavior makes the fridge an ideal location for important reminders and friendly updates.

Benefits for Property Managers

• High Visibility
  Messages posted on the fridge are hard to miss. They reach tenants at eye level, during everyday moments.

• No Technology Required
  There is no need for tenants to log in, check email, or open an app. The message is right in front of them when they’re most likely to see it.

• Personal and Approachable
  Printed or handwritten notes feel more thoughtful than automated emails. They add a human touch to property communication.
  
  

A Real-Life Example

One evening, a tenant came home to find that their sink pipe had burst and water was starting to flood the kitchen. In the past, tenants often felt stressed in emergencies because they weren’t sure who to call or where to find the right contact information.

This time, things were different. The property manager had placed a fridge notice in every unit with clear instructions: “For maintenance emergencies, call or text [phone number] available 24/7.” The tenant quickly called the number, and within the hour, maintenance was on-site fixing the issue.

Having the emergency contact right on the fridge gave the tenant peace of mind. Instead of panicking or searching through emails, they felt at ease knowing help was just one call away.

Tips for Effective Fridge Notices

• Keep it Short
  A few clear sentences or bullet points are enough. Tenants should be able to absorb the message in seconds.
  
  

• Make it Easy to Read
  Use bold headings, large fonts, and a clean layout. Add a small graphic or icon if it helps draw attention.
  
  

• Choose the Right Spot
  Place notices at eye level, and ensure they are not blocked or cluttered by other materials.
  
  

When to Use Fridge Notices

Fridge notices should focus on providing tenants with clear and necessary information that they can easily access when needed.

For example:

• Contact details for emergencies

• Instructions on how and where to pay rent

• Important building reminders

• Updates about utilities or essential services

A Small Effort That Makes a Big Difference

Fridge notices offer a low-cost, high-impact way to keep tenants informed and engaged. They reduce confusion, reinforce your presence as a proactive manager, and create a more connected living environment. Sometimes, the simplest tools are the most effective. A well-placed message on the fridge can speak louder than another unread notification.