How the 1970′s Can Still Haunt Your Condo Association

March 15th, 2011 No comments

If you manage an older apartment or condominium complex, you’ve either had to or will have to deal with lead. Many buildings from pre-1978 have had to undergo removal of lead-based paint products in order to comply with federal guidelines protecting residents and their children from unnecessary lead exposure. If your building hasn’t had all lead-based paint removed, this posting is for you.

October 1, 2010 came quietly enough, but many associations and their maintenance staff may now be facing increased scrutiny from the Environmental Protection Agency. That’s because the EPA is now enforcing its lead-based paint Renovation, Repair and Painting rule. Lead paint is relatively harmless until it is disturbed. Through cutting, sanding, demolition, and other common maintenance procedures, the paint is turned to dust which is easily inhaled by adults, children, and pets. Ultimately, you are responsible for hiring a contractor that performs their duties in a way which will keep your unit owners/tenants safe during this work. By closing off the work area and completing the work carefully, contracts can minimize the danger posed. In addition to hired contractors, if you employ any maintenance workers who complete work on older buildings where lead based paint may be found, you should send your employee to a training class to stay in agreement with the law.  Read more…

Protect Your Water-Based Sprinkler System from Freeze up

February 9th, 2011 No comments

Almost every state in the country has been experiencing below freezing weather this year.  The mid-west and northeast states have been hit hard by the freezing weather. These states are used to this type of winter weather.  The southern states, such as Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina are normally immune to the long periods of freezing weather.  Not so during the winter of 2010 and 2011.

A freeze up condition of your sprinkler system can cause an obstruction that will prevent the sprinkler system from working properly.  The sprinkler piping could also burst and cause extensive water damage to your building and contents.  

The following are a few precautions you can take to help prevent the freezing of water-based sprinkler systems:  Read more…