Ebooks

Maintenance Tips for Condo Communities 1. Ensure homeowners know they're responsible for replacing air filters in their in-suite air conditioning system. It's important for owners to know that the maintenance of these in-suite systems will be their responsibility and not the strata corporation's. Owners should thoroughly review their homeowner's manual, provided by the developer and follow the recommended instructions to maintain these systems. The air filters should be changed twice per year to avoid breakdowns and ensure proper airflow. 2. Keep the amenities in top shape and conduct regular inspections. Following a proactive maintenance plan is critical in order to meet the expectations under the "Duty to Repair and Maintain Common Property" section of your governing documents. While having maintenance contracts in place with reputable service providers is prudent, it is also expected of the council and site caretaker to visually inspect the amenity areas daily and check for damage. 3. Gas lines for common area barbecues must be inspected regularly. Barbecue season is just around the corner and it is important to check for signs of corrosion, wear and tear or any other indication of damage on common area BBQs, after year a certified inspector should be called out to inspect proper operations of the gas lines and the unit itself. The council should also remind homeowners of proper use and storage of propane gas tanks and post reminder notices in the building and on the strata's website of applicable bylaws and expectations. 4. Do not take your in-suite hose connections for granted. Hose connections to washing machines, dishwashers and sinks will require regular maintenance and inspections. It is never a question of "if", but a question of "when" a hose will fail because they wear out over time. Hiring a professional plumber at least once every two years to inspect and replace these key components could save homeowners and the strata corporation money. 5. When the strata cleans drier vents from the outside, ask homeowners to clean them from the inside. While the strata corporation is responsible for cleaning drier vents from the exterior, homeowners should also hire the same contractor to clean the drier vents from the inside at the same time. Additionally, the thick drier hose should also be replaced once every three years depending on usage. As the lint builds up in the drier, the ducts and the hose itself, the drier will become less efficient and can cause a mechanical failure or even a fire. - Laszlo Antal Business Development Manager Associa British Columbia With condominium community maintenance, you won't find as much need for common ground attention other than lawn and landscape services. Instead, your community maintenance plan should center around the upkeep of building exteriors, sidewalks and driveways.

• Cover