Frequently asked questions - General
What is your business setup and how do you bill for your services?
Heart of Portugal Property Care (HOPPC) is operated by Karen Carter Pearson. We operate legally as self-employed individuals (Trabalhadores Independentes) in Portugal. We do not run a corporate entity. We issue standard Portuguese green receipts (Recibos Verdes) for every service rendered and payment we receive.
How long is the management contract commitment?
We keep things simple and flexible. Our standard service agreement operates on a dynamic, rolling month-to-month basis.
What is your contract termination policy?
Either party can terminate the agreement at any time, for any reason, by providing exactly 14 days’ written notice (which is completely acceptable via email or WhatsApp). Please note that any services already completed or explicitly scheduled to take place within that 14-day notice window remain contractually binding and payable.
Are you available for 24/7 emergency call-outs?
While our service isn’t available 24/7, we’re committed to providing reliable support whenever we can. If an emergency occurs outside normal hours and we’re available, we’ll do everything possible to assist you quickly and efficiently.
Do you close for holidays?
Yes. We reserve the right to close operations for personal annual holidays as well as some official Portuguese national public holidays. If you have routine inspections, cleanings, or regular services that fall on these dates, they will be systematically rescheduled, and we will fully update you in advance. Don’t worry if we are fully managing your vacation rental property, we will make sure that all services remain available regardless of scheduled holidays. We’ve got you covered!
Frequently asked questions - Property Care, Inspections & Maintenance Services
How do you schedule property inspections, and can they be changed?
We make every reasonable effort to notify you of the planned calendar dates for upcoming routine inspections well in advance. While we strive to maintain a rhythmic schedule, exact consistency cannot be legally guaranteed. HOPPC reserves the distinct right to adjust, cancel, or completely move the date of any previously scheduled inspection at our sole discretion without providing an underlying reason.
What are the legal limitations of your property inspections?
All inspections conducted by HOPPC are visual inspections only. They provide a general overview of the visible condition of the property at the time of the visit and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of overall condition. They do not constitute building surveys, structural inspections, engineering assessments, pest inspections, or professional certifications (electrical/plumbing). We are not responsible for identifying latent, concealed, inaccessible, or developing defects (e.g., hidden water leaks, roof defects, pest infestations, mold, or electrical faults).
Does your property care service guarantee my home against damage or theft?
No. While our routine visits and keyholding duties are designed to reduce risk and help you manage your property, we do not guarantee protection against burglary, vandalism, trespass, theft, malicious damage, water/storm damage, pest activity, or utility failures. Homeowners are strictly required to maintain adequate independent insurance (building, contents, public liability, etc.).
What minor maintenance services do you provide directly?
General handyman and repair services provided directly by HOPPC are strictly limited to simple, minor domestic tasks. We do not undertake major infrastructure works, complex structural renovations, certified electrical grid modifications, or extensive professional plumbing overhauls. We assume no legal or financial liability for minor maintenance works performed or any future utility/structural failures emerging from these interventions.
What happens in a critical maintenance emergency?
If we discover an active critical emergency on-site (such as a bursting water pipe or electrical short), we will attempt—if it is physically safe and accessible—to shut down and isolate the primary incoming utilities to prevent catastrophic loss.
How do you work with independent third-party contractors that I hire?
You’re welcome to appoint any third-party tradespeople or specialist contractors, such as builders, certified electricians, or pool technicians. While we’re happy to help facilitate access to your property if required, these contractors operate independently of HOPPC. As such, we are not responsible for managing or supervising their work, and responsibility for the quality of workmanship and compliance with relevant safety standards remains with the contractor.
What we can do: We offer a basic access service where we physically open/close gates and doors for the contractor, and convey basic updates or send descriptive photos to you.
Emergency Clause: If an operational issue or safety risk arises with your contractor and you are completely non-responsive to urgent communications, we reserve the right to immediately exit and secure the property. Returning to the site later at your request will be billed as an entirely separate, chargeable service visit.
Frequently asked questions - Vacation Property Management
What services do you offer?
We offer both complete vacation property management and tailored support to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for someone to manage every aspect of your holiday home or simply need help with guest communication, listing optimisation, guidebook creation, cleaning coordination, garden maintenance, handyman services, or welcome packs, we can create a service that works for you.
Do I have to choose a full management package?
No. My services are completely flexible. You can choose a full management package or select only the services you require. Whether you need occasional assistance or ongoing support, I can tailor a solution to fit your property and budget.
Can you help increase my bookings?
Yes. I can optimise your property listings with compelling descriptions, improved presentation, and advice on pricing and guest experience. I also create professional digital guidebooks to help guests enjoy their stay, encouraging positive reviews and repeat bookings.
Do you provide cleaning and property maintenance?
Yes. We can arrange or coordinate cleaning, laundry, handyman, gardening, pool maintenance, and other property care services. These can be included as part of your management plan or booked whenever they’re needed.
Can you prepare my property before guests arrive?
Absolutely. I can ensure your property is guest-ready by coordinating cleaning, checking the property, arranging welcome packs, preparing guidebooks, and making sure everything is in place for a smooth arrival and enjoyable stay.
Do you only work with Airbnb properties?
Not at all. I can manage properties listed on Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo, direct booking websites, or any combination of platforms. My services are designed to support holiday home owners regardless of where they advertise their property.
Get in touch to know more
Would you like to learn more about our services or want to discuss your requirements?
Feel free to get in touch by completing the contact form, sending us a WhatsApp message, or emailing us directly. We’d be happy to help.
WhatsApp: +351 911 054 322
Email: hoppropertycare@gmail.com
Request a follow-up
A short enquiry is enough. We will confirm the next sensible step before anything is quoted or scheduled.