5 Red Flag Maintenance Issues for Every HOA or Condo Board

No one likes to deal with a major maintenance issue. Least of all, association boards who might have to break the news to members about expensive maintenance repairs. However, there are some issues that should never go unchecked. A well-maintained building is a safe building!

Red Flag Issues to Address Immediately

• Cracked concrete or concrete that is “spalling.” Spalling is a term used when concrete breaks down as a result of serious weathering or a chemical reaction. Once this starts to happen, the concrete loses strength. Very long or deep cracks in concrete should be evaluated by an engineer. Superficial cracks are less concerning but still need to be monitored.

• Building materials that have separated into layers or have fractured. This is called “delamination” and needs to be evaluated as soon as possible to avoid more damage, and more costly repairs.

• Steel that has become damaged, decayed, or dilapidated. This is an indication it may no longer be structurally sound.

• Significant rust – meaning marks from rust that have penetrated the concrete. 

• Any signs of corrosion. This is particularly common in buildings near bodies of saltwater. Look for things like oxidizing steel and rusting bolts. 

If you do determine that things need to be repaired or replaced right away, it is also worthwhile to talk to your contractor about smaller repairs that might be able to be done at the same time. Sometimes this is more cost effective since you will already have contractors working at your property. 

If you have any questions about how to go about funding emergency repairs, I can help. Give me a call at Dania Fernandez and Associates, P.A. to learn more and schedule a consultation.