IREM Certified Property Manager (CPM) Practice Test 2025 - Free CPM Practice Questions and Study Guide

The main function of a work order is to indicate maintenance tasks and responsibilities. A work order is a crucial element in property management and maintenance operations, as it outlines specific tasks that need to be completed, assigns responsibility for those tasks, and often includes details such as location, priority, and expected completion date. This helps ensure that maintenance issues are adequately addressed, resources are utilized effectively, and communication between management and maintenance staff is clear.

By clearly documenting maintenance tasks, work orders assist in tracking work progress and providing accountability for responsible parties. This leads to improved efficiency in addressing property maintenance requests and ensures that residents or tenants have their needs met promptly, contributing to overall tenant satisfaction and property value. The other options focus on different operational aspects that do not relate specifically to the maintenance management process encapsulated by a work order.