5 Ways to Keep Your Condo Association Board Happy with Repairs and Maintenance
Managing a condo association in Chicago requires balancing many priorities, from keeping residents satisfied to managing budgets. However, one of the most critical relationships you need to maintain is with the Condo Association Board. The board is responsible for making big decisions, approving budgets, and ensuring the building operates smoothly. As a Community Association Manager (CAM), presenting well-executed repairs and maintenance plans can build trust, ensure smooth operations, and reduce stress for everyone involved.
This blog explores five practical ways to keep your condo association board happy with repairs and maintenance, incorporating strategies tailored to Chicago’s unique challenges, real-world success stories, and expert tips from Gorteni Property Solutions.
1. Communicate Clearly and Regularly with the Board
Clear communication is the foundation of a positive relationship with the board. Providing regular updates on repairs and maintenance projects ensures they feel informed and in control.
How to Communicate Effectively:
Provide Detailed Proposals: Include timelines, costs, and scope of work for any repairs.
Share Regular Updates: Use progress reports or updates to inform the board about the status of ongoing projects.
Be Transparent About Costs: Avoid surprises by discussing costs upfront and providing itemized estimates.
Chicago-Specific Tip:
Include local insights when presenting plans. For example, explain how Chicago’s freeze-thaw cycles affect roofing repairs or why gutter cleaning is critical before winter storms.
Real-World Example:
A Lakeview condo board was concerned about rising maintenance costs. Gorteni Property Solutions provided a transparent plan for deck repairs that included a phased approach to spread costs over two budget cycles, earning the board’s trust and approval.
2. Proactively Address Maintenance Issues
Boards appreciate CAMs who take a proactive approach to repairs and maintenance, avoiding costly emergencies down the road.
Key Maintenance Tasks to Prioritize:
Roof Repairs and Gutter Cleaning: Prevent water damage and costly interior repairs.
Masonry and Facade Maintenance: Protect the building from water infiltration and keep it visually appealing.
Plumbing Inspections: Avoid resident complaints about leaks or clogged drains.
HVAC Tune-Ups: Ensure heating and cooling systems function efficiently.
How Gorteni Helps:
We provide routine inspections and maintenance plans tailored to the needs of Chicago buildings, helping you catch small problems before they escalate.
Actionable Tip: Create a Preventive Maintenance Schedule
Develop a yearly schedule for inspections and routine tasks, including:
Spring: Gutter cleaning, roof inspection, and HVAC tune-up.
Fall: Masonry waterproofing, deck sealing, and furnace inspection.
Winter: Emergency preparedness for snow and ice.
3. Offer Cost-Effective Solutions
Boards often face tight budgets, so they’ll appreciate CAMs who can provide affordable yet high-quality solutions.
How to Balance Cost and Quality:
Compare quotes from multiple contractors to ensure fair pricing.
Use a contractor like Gorteni Property Solutions, which offers comprehensive services, eliminating the need for multiple vendors.
Propose phased repairs to break larger projects into manageable chunks.
Chicago-Specific Insight:
Proactive maintenance is especially cost-effective in Chicago. For example, regular masonry inspections prevent costly repairs caused by water damage from the city’s heavy rains.
Case Study: Affordable Facade Repairs
A Wicker Park condo board hesitated to approve a facade repair project due to high quotes. Gorteni Property Solutions provided an affordable alternative by using modern materials that matched the building’s design but required less labor, saving the board 25%.
4. Ensure Compliance with Chicago Building Regulations
Chicago’s strict building codes can be daunting for CAMs, but staying compliant ensures safety and avoids fines. Boards value contractors who understand local regulations and handle the paperwork.
Common Compliance Areas in Chicago:
Balcony Inspections: Mandatory for multi-unit buildings to ensure structural safety.
Facade Maintenance: Buildings over six stories require periodic inspections.
Roof Repairs: Must meet city standards for material and safety.
How Gorteni Can Help:
Our licensed contractors stay up-to-date on Chicago’s building codes, ensuring all repairs meet local requirements and pass inspections.
5. Focus on Aesthetics and Resident Satisfaction
The board’s reputation often hinges on the appearance and functionality of the building. Well-maintained common areas and attractive exteriors boost resident satisfaction and reflect positively on the board.
Key Areas to Enhance Aesthetics:
Decks, Balconies, and Patios: Regular repairs and staining keep outdoor spaces safe and stylish.
Masonry and Facades: Clean, crack-free exteriors maintain curb appeal.
Interior Painting: Refreshing common areas like lobbies and hallways can instantly uplift the building.
Real-World Success:
A condo association in the South Loop hired Gorteni Property Solutions to refurbish their rooftop deck. By incorporating durable, weatherproof materials and a modern design, the project not only impressed residents but also earned praise for the board’s proactive approach.
FAQs About Repairs and Maintenance for Chicago Condo Associations
How can CAMs handle emergency repairs efficiently?
Work with contractors like Gorteni Property Solutions that offer 24/7 emergency services. Quick responses reduce damage and keep residents satisfied.
What’s the best way to manage repair costs?
Create a preventive maintenance plan to address issues early and avoid costly emergency repairs. Request multiple quotes for larger projects.
How do I ensure contractors meet deadlines?
Choose reliable contractors with a track record of delivering projects on time. Clear contracts with detailed timelines help set expectations.
Why Choose Gorteni Property Solutions for Repairs and Maintenance?
At Gorteni Property Solutions, we understand the unique challenges CAMs and condo boards face in managing Chicago properties.
Our Services Include:
Roof Repairs and Gutter Cleaning: Prevent leaks and water damage with regular maintenance.
Deck and Balcony Repairs: Keep outdoor spaces safe and stylish.
Masonry and Facade Restoration: Protect your building from Chicago’s harsh weather.
HVAC and Plumbing Repairs: Ensure smooth operation of critical systems.
Why Work With Us?
Local Expertise: Our team understands Chicago’s weather, building codes, and architectural styles.
Affordable Solutions: We provide cost-effective services without sacrificing quality.
Transparent Communication: Keeping CAMs and boards informed every step of the way.
Emergency Services: Ready to respond when you need us most.
