February 9, 2012

Interior floor care a major consideration in condo maintenance

THOMAS MARKS

columnist

Today, board of directors and property management companies are expected to maintain all areas of their building in “pristine condition.”

When a visitor comes through the front door, into the vestibule and then into the front lobby, a quick assessment is made and the first question in their mind is immediately asked. “Do I want to live here?” Owners expect to feel a sense of pride when a visitor enters their building. This is where the first impression is made when entering into their home.

As with most condominiums today, the front security desk is part of the ‘showpiece’ that is on display 24 hours per day. Security companies that manage the front desk go to great lengths to provide their staff with smart and up-to-date uniforms. The security desk is the control centre of every condominium. Each visitor to the building must pass through the security system that is maintained by the security company and supervised daily by the property management company. A well maintained entrance combined with a smart looking front desk is an integral part of creating that important first impression

In order to achieve and maintain the level of quality and service that owners expect, it is essential that the lobby floor and hallway carpets receive the appropriate care on a daily basis. A major expense in condominiums, especially those with 20, 30, 40 or more floors, is the care and maintenance of hallway carpets.

ServiceMaster of Canada is a leading company in the care and maintenance of carpeting.

Hallway carpeting, if properly maintained, can achieve a life span of seven to 10 years and still have the luster of new carpeting.

Condominium corporations have the opportunity of entering into long term contracts, normally, one, two, and three year periods. These contracts usually include two entire building hot-water extractions (early spring and late fall) and monthly care of heavy traffic areas.

This pattern of cleaning assists in preventing dulling, matting and excessive carpet wear. Traffic patterns are diminished, leaving a more consistent carpet appearance overall. Regular care means longer carpet life and less frequent replacement.

One very important factor that must be considered is the cleaning and preservation of upholstery.

In addressing the cleaning issues of a condominium, training, tools, cleaning products and cost need to be taken into account. It is important that the superintendent, along with the daily cleaning staff, use tools and cleaning products that are specifically designed to provide a healthy and non-toxic environment.

The annual cost that a sizable condominium corporation can incur in maintaining a clean building can easily run into six figures. Therefore, all condominium staff and maintenance contractors should receive on-going training in order to stay up-to-date on the best practices and products available on the market.

This is part of the basis of providing the professional level of service that is required by all condominium owners and residents.

Thomas Marks is a former associate editor of the Daily Commercial News and is currently a candidate member of the Association of Condominium Managers of Ontario. Emails can be sent to editor@dailycommercialnews.com.

Print | Comment