Seasonal Property Prep

By Maria Aitkenhead, RCM, Cambridge Office
From the WB Condo Connection, Volume 9, Issue 2
Summer is almost over and before we know it, the wet season will be raining down on us once more.  By now the majority of seasonal repairs have likely been taken care of, but a review of the following components should be completed to ensure your property is ready once more for the extremes of the Canadian winter.

“Prepare a list with recommendations for repairs…for the Board to review”

During your inspections, pay close attention to the following areas:

• Sidewalks, internal walkways, ramps, driveways, parking lots and steps.
  • If any of these are poorly maintained it can lead to slips and falls and more expenses down the road. Make sure they are level, free of cracks, signs of alligatoring or spalling, sink holes, and uneven concrete. Also review line painting for deterioration.
• Roofs and support structures.
  • Ice and snow can put stress on any buildings. Check all roofs, flashing, rain gutters, anchors etc. for wear and tear.
• Windows/Doors:
  • Check for caulking, broken glass panes and seals, and weather-stripping around doors and windows for damage.

• Trees/shrubs/Plants:
  • Check for dead or loose branches. Make a plan to remove these limbs as soon as possible. It is recommended to have trees professionally trimmed every two to three years.
  • If any shrubs/plants need to be fertilized or pruned, make a list of those needing attention.
• Landscaping:
  • If there has been damage by the snow ploughs, contact the landscaper right away. Most landscaping companies do these repairs in the spring time but it is always best to keep an eye out to make sure they are completed.
  • Look for areas needing re-seeding or additional soil etc.
• Drains/water taps:
  • Water backups can lead to expensive repairs and huge problems from mould, damaged drywall/insulation, flooring, landscaping and more. If either you or your Board are aware of any previous issues, make sure to add these to your list of items to be inspected and repaired immediately.
• Internal and External lights/lamp posts:
  • Check for damage to the posts or lamps. Do bulbs need replacing? Do they need to be cleaned?
• Brick/Siding:
  • Winter can take a toll on these areas. Check for any cracks that weren’t there before, for loose siding or bricks, damaged mortar, bulging or leaning walls/foundation, and efflorescence
• Decks/Fences:
  • Review for any evidence of deterioration, for loose/missing or chipped Boards, and any signs of bug infestations etc.
• Pool and surrounding areas:
  • Is the fence stable and in good condition?
  • Are self-closing and self-latching gates closing properly?
  • Is there any damage to the concrete or pool itself?
  • Is there any damage to the pool cover etc.?

These are just a few of the items that should be on your list but feel free to add/remove items since each site is unique.

1. Once the inspection has been completed, the manager should prepare a list with recommendations for repairs and when possible, include the quotes for the Board to review. This will save time and streamline the process of initiating the repairs.
2. Once the Board has made their decision and the manager has the go ahead, it is the Manager’s responsibility to ensure these repairs are completed.
3. To keep track of what is in process and what has been completed etc., and to keep the Board informed, I include this list with the Manager’s report until all items have been completed.