While summer isn't over yet, the end of July is the perfect time for condominium associations to start preparing their buildings for the changing seasons. Addressing maintenance projects now can help avoid costly repairs later, improve resident satisfaction, and make fall budgeting much easier.
Here's what every condo board should have on its late summer maintenance checklist.
- Inspect Roofs and Gutters: Summer storms can take a toll on roofing systems. By finding small issues now, you can prevent leaks during heavy fall rains and winter snow. Schedule an inspection to identify:
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Flashing issues
- Clogged gutters and downspouts
- Standing water on flat roofs
- Evaluate Building Exteriors: Minor repairs completed during warm weather are often less expensive than emergency repairs after temperatures drop. Plan a time to walk the property to look for things that may need maintenance such as; masonry and brickwork, caulking around windows and doors, siding damage, foundation cracks, and balcony/deck conditions.
- Service HVAC Systems: Whether your building has centralized HVAC or common-area systems, scheduling early servicing helps prevent breakdowns during the first cold days of fall.
- Review Landscaping: Healthy landscaping protects both curb appeal and property value. Consider things such as:
- Trimming trees away from roofs and buildings
- Removing dead branches
- Evaluating irrigation systems
- Planning fall planting
- Checking drainage around the property
- Proper drainage can help prevent water intrusion and foundation problems.
- Inspect Parking Lots and Walkways: Summer heat and winter freeze-thaw cycles can leave behind cracks and uneven surfaces. Addressing these issues can reduce liability and improve resident safety. Look for things such as; trip hazards, failing pavement, faded parking lot paint, damaged curbs, and loose handrails
- Prepare for Budget Season: Boards that plan early are better positioned to avoid special assessments and unexpected financial surprises. Many associations begin budget planning in late summer or early fall. Now is a good time to review items such as; upcoming maintenance projects, reserve fund contributions, vendor contracts, utility expenses, and capital improvement priorities.
- Review Vendor Performance: Strong vendor relationships help keep buildings running efficiently while protecting association finances. Mid-year is an ideal time to evaluate contractors and service providers. Ask questions like:
- Are vendors meeting expectations?
- Are maintenance requests handled promptly?
- Have costs increased?
- Is it time to request competitive bids? (Condoly is a perfect one-stop-shop tool to find, hire, and manage professionals for your routine maintenance needs.)
- Communicate with Residents: Maintenance projects often affect residents directly. Clear communication helps reduce frustration and builds trust between the board and residents. As you go through reviews, inspections, and maintenance work, keep homeowners in the loop with open communication.
Proactive maintenance is one of the most effective ways condo boards can protect their investment and avoid costly emergency repairs. By completing inspections and planning ahead before fall arrives, associations can improve safety, preserve property values, and better manage their budgets throughout the year.
Need Help Managing Your Condo Association's Finances?
Planning maintenance is only part of keeping your association healthy. Effective budgeting, accurate financial reporting, and reserve planning are equally important. Haus Financial Services specializes in accounting and financial management for small condominium associations in Chicago. Whether you're preparing next year's budget or looking for reliable financial support, our team can help your board stay organized and financially confident.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your association.
