Condo Safety Resources
The recent incident of the Florida building collapse has left people in shock. Homeowners are beginning to question the safety of their own condos. As a result, they are now more willing to be proactive about their safety and security. Residents and homeowners want to take responsibility for their own well-being and ensure that no accidents happen. Every single community member needs to take the appropriate measures and participate in community building safety. Whether it is condo safety Atlanta or condo safety Augusta, everyone should take it seriously.
Ask the important questions
While different states have put forth different clauses and requirements for building safety, some standard guidelines can be followed by everyone. Every community member, regardless of where they live, should ask the following questions:
- What are the steps that have been taken to make the building safe?
- How much investment has been made into safety equipment and protocols?
- Is there a financial reserve plan for repairs and replacements?
- Are the community guidelines updates regularly?
- How often should professional engineers inspect the structural integrity of the buildings?
- What are the resources set aside for any accidents?
What can you do?
As a homeowner, you do have a say in how the condo operates and you should utilize that power.
- Homeowners have to familiarise themselves with their rights and responsibilities.
- Attending board meetings is essential because it is the easiest way to convey your grievances to the condo committee with the support of other homeowners. You will have the stage to present your problems and fears openly.
- Do not ignore communication from the community and stay up to date with the latest developments.
- Do not be afraid to ask questions during community events.
- Be prepared to fund reserves for necessary replacements and repairs.
Do your research!
Being self-sufficient will help you take the best decisions for yourselves. You can do your research online or you can even ask the condo manager to provide you with resources that you can study. This will also encourage your neighbors to do the same and the management will go the extra mile to take proper safety measures. We have linked some resources for you below:
- Best Practices: Natural Disasters
- Best Practices: Reserve Studies/Management
- Breaking Point: Examining Aging Infrastructure in Community Associations
- Disaster Ready
- Got Defects?
- Nuts and Bolts
You can also access more resources here.
Responsibilities of the Board
Board members should keep an eye on the needs of the condo and take measures before it is too late. They should schedule inspections every other month to find out whether there are any structural problems that have to be resolved ahead of time. It is important to review the reserve plan and ensure its efficacy. The reserve funding plan should be implemented using the best practices. Being transparent about funding and resources with residents and homeowners will make the process smoother. Frequent communication is key. Formulating a disaster management plan can also prove to be helpful.
Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own living space. Stay aware and take initiatives to secure your future.