A WordPress maintenance retainer gives your site a developer on call every month, instead of a ticket queue full of strangers. I handle updates, backups, security checks and small changes on a regular rhythm, so problems get caught early and changes ship without a new quote each time.
I work on live sites that already have editors, plugins and history. The goal is a site that stays updated, recoverable and easy to change. For context, see the official list of supported PHP versions.
What a WordPress maintenance retainer includes
- Core, plugin and theme updates, tested before they reach the live site.
- Backups, plus a restore test so you know they work.
- PHP version and security patching, including a quick response to critical flaws such as the PHP2Shell vulnerabilities.
- Uptime and error monitoring.
- Small content, layout and bug-fix requests inside the agreed scope.
- A short written summary after each cycle.
Retainer or one-off maintenance?
A one-off fix solves today’s problem. A retainer keeps the site healthy and gives you someone who already knows the codebase, so requests move faster. If you mainly want security patching and monitoring, see my website security and maintenance service. If you also want ongoing build work, a monthly WordPress developer arrangement may fit better.
How a WordPress maintenance retainer is scoped
- Initial review: I look at your hosting, PHP version, plugins, backups and recent problems.
- Agree the scope: number of sites, plugins, expected requests and reporting.
- Set the rhythm: when updates, scans and reports happen.
- Fix urgent items first: critical updates, missing backups and exposed settings.
- Review regularly: scope changes as your site changes.
Who it suits
- Business owners who would rather not manage updates themselves.
- Teams without an in-house WordPress developer.
- Stores and membership sites where downtime costs money.
- Agencies that need a dependable partner for client sites.
What it is not
This is hands-on work by one developer. However, it is not a 24/7 security operations centre, and I do not promise a site that can never be hacked. You get careful, documented work and quick action on published critical threats.
FAQ
What is a WordPress maintenance retainer?
It is an ongoing monthly arrangement where I keep your WordPress site updated, backed up and secure, and handle small changes within an agreed scope.
Can I change the scope later?
Yes. We review the scope regularly, so it can grow or shrink as your site changes.
How do I get a quote?
Send me your site details. After an initial review I quote based on what the site actually needs, not a fixed package.
Get started
Tell me about your site and what you need. Then I will reply with a clear next step, and I will not push a package that does not fit.