9 Condominium Maintenance Tips For A Safer Summer

July 25, 2024

The below article was originally published in as part of the WB Digital Newsletter in Q2 2024 released directly to Wilson Blanchard client Boards of Directors.

Summer marks the height of activity for many condominium corporations. Making the most of the season, residents take advantage of outdoor amenities, like the pool, grill, and other features. However, these amenities can present unique risks and safety hazards.

With so much happening in the neighbourhood, it’s more important than ever for your condominium board to prioritize safety with proper summer maintenance. Ensuring the community is ready for the months ahead will help keep homeowners safe and satisfied all season long.

1. Ensure amenities are prepared for summer events and activities.

Because many condominium amenities will get much more use, board members should give themselves plenty of time to get amenities in optimal shape before the summer rush. Focus on inspections, maintenance, and repairs in shared areas where people gather for activities and socializing, including:

Clubhouses
Pools, cabanas, and spa
Picnic or barbeque areas
Playgrounds
Fitness centers
Parks
Other outdoor recreational areas

2. Review pool safety equipment and protocols.

Splashing around in the community pool is fun for all ages, but can lead to unsafe conditions. Regular pool maintenance will keep the pool area looking its best and functioning within safe limits.

Take some time to inspect pool safety equipment, including:

Ring buoys or rescue tubes
Rescue pole or shepherd’s hook
Pool lifts
Pool gate locks and fencing
Pool handrails, ladders, and steps
Tiles and flooring around the pool

Invest in new or upgraded supplies if any safety equipment is worn down or broken. Also, review your pool’s safety protocols and make sure rules and signage are clear and visible.

3. Maintain community grills to prevent fire risks.

Grilling is a popular summer pastime, and homeowners often partake in this activity

using the community grill. As summer approaches, schedule a thorough reviewof all condominium grill areas to:

Inspect the grill for damage ormissing parts.
Remove all leaves, debris, and other buildup that could cause a fire.
Trim overgrown trees and foliage close to the grill.
Post safety guidelines and grill instructions.
Store a fire extinguisher near the grill in case of an emergency.

4. Inspect and test emergency equipment.

With an increased risk of fires in the summer, it’s time to examine your community’s emergency equipment, like fire extinguishers and hydrants. All emergency fire equipment must function correctly when needed, so testing is an absolute must. They also need to be easily visible and accessible in case of a fire.

Check your condominium’s governing documents to see who owns your community’s fire hydrants and who is responsible for maintaining them. In some cases, the water utility, city, or local fire district will own hydrants located on easements and test and tag them annually.

However, condominiums often own community fire hydrants and must schedule and fund

inspections and repairs. If this responsibility falls on the condominium board, work with a reputable company to test and maintain fire hydrants and other safety equipment.

5. Promote nighttime safety with enhanced lighting.

Warm summer nights mean more residents will be out and about after dark. As a precautionary measure, check that community lighting is adequate and make any necessary changes, such as:

Replacing old bulbs with brighter, energy-efficient lighting.
Confirming that streetlights are functioning.
Installing motion sensor lighting by stairs and entryways.
Updating lighting schedules in active community areas.

6. Consider pet waste.

While pets enjoy taking advantage of amenities just like you do, things can get messy if your community doesn’t have appropriate waste receptacles. Without them, pet waste in condominium parks and walking paths can affect residents’ perceived value of the community and present health hazards.

As we head into summer, consider installing additional pet waste stations, stocking more disposable waste bags, and reminding residents to clean up after their pets.

7. Confirm water features function properly and meet regulatory requirements.

If your condominium has water features like fountains, ponds, or waterfalls, call on your landscaping team to inspect and maintain them. More homeowners will be outside for walks and gatherings, and these water features add an aesthetic element that enhances the community living experience.

In addition to checking the feature’s appearance, you must confirm it’s working correctly and doesn’t violate any regulations. You may need to make adjustments based on summer

conservation measures and local water volume restrictions.

8. Remind homeowners about community guidelines for summer activities.

Put your condominium’s website, social media, and community newsletter to good use by sharing summer activity guidelines and safety tips. Reinforce rules and warnings by ensuring signage is displayed within range of your most-used amenities. Reminding homeowners of rules regarding the community pool, grill, clubhouse, playgrounds, and other shared spaces can help prevent conflicts and conditions that put residents in danger.

9. Educate residents on keeping their homes safe and secure.

With ideal weather and kids on school break, many families travel during the summer.

However, empty homes and careless mistakes can lead to more burglaries and vandalism.Share tips and insights with homeowners on how to keep their properties safe and secure while traveling. Suggest installing security cameras, pausing newspaper and mail deliveries, and asking a neighbour to keep an eye on things as ways to protect their homes.