WordPress maintenance needs someone with the access, knowledge and time to do it properly. Routine work is easy to postpone until an update fails, a form stops sending or a backup is needed.
The routine work
A typical site needs plugin and theme update checks, backups, uptime monitoring, security review and occasional content or configuration changes. Updates should be checked afterwards rather than treated as a one-click task.
Ownership matters more than the tool
Many hosts include backups and some automated updates. That is useful, but it does not decide who investigates an alert, confirms that a form still works or restores the right version after a fault.
What to ask a care provider
Ask how often updates are reviewed, where backups are stored, how restores are handled, what monitoring covers and how support outside the plan is approved. The answers should be specific enough for you to know who does what.
Our WordPress care plans assign the routine work to Brand Aspect and set out the included support time, takeover process and notice terms.
Ask what happens when a form stops working
This is a useful question when comparing plans. Who notices the fault? How do you report it? Who checks the form, email delivery and any connected service? Is that investigation included, or will you need a separate quote? A list of maintenance tools does not answer those questions.
Likewise, a backup is only part of the answer. Ask which files and data it contains, how far back it goes and how a restore is checked. For a shop or booking site, discuss what happens to orders or bookings made since the backup.
Prepare for a handover
- Identify who controls the domain, hosting, WordPress access and email.
- List paid plugins and services, including who pays their renewals.
- Explain which journeys matter most: enquiries, orders, bookings or member access.
- Record existing faults so takeover work can be quoted separately.
Keep access details private and use an agreed secure handover method. Your provider can then explain the routine work, included support and arrangements for urgent problems before you commit.
Need help with your website?
Tell us what needs attention and what you need the website to do. Andy will suggest a practical next step.