Year-Round Strata Maintenance Guide: Seasonal Tips For Your Strata

At Kinetic Realty & Property Management, we know how important it is to keep your strata property in top shape throughout the year. Effective maintenance isn’t just about keeping things looking nice; it’s about protecting your investment, ensuring safety, and avoiding costly repairs. As strata council members, you play a key role in keeping your property well-maintained, and having a proactive, seasonal maintenance plan is the best way to stay ahead of issues.

Whether preparing for harsh Kamloops winters or sprucing up your outdoor spaces for summer, here’s a guide that will help you focus on the right tasks each season to keep everything running smoothly.

Spring: Time for Renewal and Inspection

As the weather warms up, spring is an ideal time to freshen up your property and take care of any repairs that winter may have left behind.

Landscaping & Garden Care

Spring is the perfect season to breathe new life into your outdoor spaces. This is the time to inspect trees, shrubs, and garden beds, replant where needed, and make sure your irrigation systems are working efficiently. Proper care now will set the stage for lush, healthy greenery throughout the year.

Roof & Gutter Check

Clear out any winter debris from gutters and downspouts. Inspect the roof for any damage caused by ice, snow, or winds. Catching these issues early will prevent water damage when the spring rains come.

Outdoor Amenities

For properties with patios, BBQ areas, or pools, spring is the time to clean and prepare these spaces for resident use. Inspect outdoor furniture and equipment to ensure everything is in good condition.

Pest Control

Warmer weather brings the return of pests. Check for signs of ant colonies, rodents, or other pests, and schedule preventive measures with your pest control service.

Summer: Maximizing Outdoor Spaces and Comfort

Summer in Kamloops is a time for outdoor living, and ensuring your strata is comfortable and functional is a must for resident satisfaction.

Cooling Systems

Ensure that any air conditioning or cooling systems are running efficiently. Check ventilation systems in common areas, clean filters, and consider regular servicing to prevent breakdowns in the heat.

Exterior Inspections

Now is the time to examine the exterior of the building for any cracks, damage, or wear from the winter and spring seasons. Pay attention to balconies, railings, and walkways to ensure they are safe and structurally sound.

Fire Safety Checks

With longer, hotter days comes the increased risk of fire. Inspect fire extinguishers, test smoke alarms in common areas, and remind residents of fire safety measures, particularly around BBQ use and open flames.

Pool & Amenity Maintenance

If your property has a pool, ensure it is being cleaned and maintained regularly. Keep an eye on chemical levels and inspect all safety features. For outdoor spaces, make sure furniture, BBQs, and other amenities are in top condition.

Fall: Preparing for Colder Weather

As summer fades, fall is the time to prepare your strata for the cold months ahead. This is a season of prevention, ensuring your property can withstand the challenges of winter.

Heating Systems

Before the cold sets in, ensure that all heating systems are working properly. Boilers, furnaces, and radiators should be serviced, and windows and doors checked for drafts to keep heating efficient.

Gutter & Drainage Preparation

As leaves begin to fall, make sure your gutters and drainage systems are clear of debris. This will prevent blockages and water damage when the fall rains arrive.

Roof & Exterior Maintenance

Inspect the roof for any damage and make repairs before winter. Ensure that exterior walls are properly sealed and waterproofed to keep out moisture and drafts.

Lighting & Safety

As the days get shorter, check that all outdoor lighting is working properly, especially in parking lots and walkways. Adequate lighting is essential for resident safety during the darker months.

Winter: Safeguarding Against Cold Weather Hazards

Kamloops winters can be harsh, and preparing your strata for the season will help avoid emergency repairs and ensure the safety of your residents.

Snow & Ice Management

Have a snow removal contract ready to go before the first snow falls. Walkways, parking lots, and driveways should be clear of snow and ice to prevent slips and falls. Ensure grit or salt is available for icy conditions.

Heating System Monitoring

Regularly check heating systems to ensure they are working efficiently, especially during cold snaps. Remind residents to keep their thermostats at safe levels to avoid frozen pipes.

Plumbing & Insulation

Inspect vulnerable pipes, particularly those in unheated areas, for freezing risks. Installing insulation around these pipes can prevent costly damage.

Fire Safety in the Winter

Winter brings an increased use of heaters, fireplaces, and candles. It’s a good time to remind residents of fire safety protocols. Ensure common area fireplaces are inspected and maintained for safe use.

Keeping Your Strata Ahead of the Curve

Maintaining your strata throughout the year doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following a seasonal maintenance plan, you can address issues before they become costly problems, improve the safety and comfort of your residents, and protect the long-term value of your property.

At Kinetic Realty & Property Management, we partner with strata councils to make sure your property gets the attention it needs year-round. Whether it’s planning for snow removal in winter or ensuring your outdoor spaces are summer-ready, we’ve got you covered.

Contact Us Today

For all your strata management needs, Kinetic Realty & Property Management is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation.