Issue link: https://hub.associaonline.com/i/947785
6 3 2 4 5 6 7 ACTIVE-ADULT COMMUNITIES Active-adult community maintenance should be driven by tasks like routine safety and elevator inspections and facilities maintenance, such as tennis court and pool upkeep. 1. Clean out slope v-ditches and catch basins. Clean the catch basins and v-ditches at least twice a year — more often if the basin is directly beneath trees or you live in a region with frequent storms. The purpose of a catch basin is not just to facilitate water drainage, but also to maintain a clean and freely flowing v-ditch system from the yard to the end location. Also, regularly clean the sediment out of the catch basin twice a year so that the basin doesn't become plugged and cause damage to the surrounding landscape or structures. 2. Clean out rain gutters. Gutters and downspouts must be clear of leaves and debris to properly function. If they aren't, drain outlets will dam up and rainwater will fill the gutters, overflow, and eventually pull the gutters loose. Water that pools in troughs will rot wood gutters and can rust those made of sheet-metal. Plan to clean gutters at least twice a year — maybe more often if the roof is directly beneath trees or you live in a region with more winter storms. 3. Clean out fireplace hearths. Fireplaces can be cleaned by using a fireplace cleaner purchased at a local hardware store and using a shop vacuum to remove the dust and ashes from the fireplace. Remember to use a drop cloth to contain the mess and hire a professional chimney sweep for community-owned fireplaces. 4. Keep up with flat roof maintenance. Flat roofs require significantly more maintenance than sloped roofs because debris collects easier on flat surfaces, causing dangerous conditions. Use a hose to run a solid stream of water through the drains of a flat roof, clearing them of all debris. Additionally, use a broom or power washer to remove leaves and dirt from the roof surface during the fall that may turn into a dense sludge over the winter. Branches that can scrape the roof should be trimmed or removed. Check the flashing each year at the same time for cracked caulking. - Professional Community Management