CAI-NJ Feb 2022

MANAGEMENT TRENDS... from page 50.

pick up the newspaper in their slip- pers. While this example applies to snow, each association might come up with other areas where such a measure would be appropriate (e.g., fitness centers, pools, parking and traffic, etc.). Maintaining a Practice of Inspections and Monitoring Changes The backbone of any program to provide for a safe environment and limit the exposure to risk is a program of inspections. According to most industry sources, site inspec- tions are critical in this area. The frequency of inspection varies by property and inspection purpose. As example, older communities might be more maintenance-intensive and require more frequent visits. General

purpose inspections to check on con- tractor performance, rules adherence, community cleanliness and so forth might be conducted weekly or month- ly. Inspections for checking life/safety equipment, exterior building condi- tions or rain gutter conditions might be quarterly, and an annual inspection might be done to plan for capital programs and to ensure that the risk management program continues to meet the needs of the community given any change in circumstance or condition (For a more complete description of inspection frequency and type, see IREM’s “Maintenance and Risk Management for the Real Estate Manager”). Conclusion Keeping homeowners safe and prop- erty protected is the highest priority for any association. Given the events of recent years, it should be obvious that having a plan to do so has become critically important. Such a plan does not need to be a daunting exercise, in fact, it can be a simple outline of areas of concern, steps needed to mitigate as much danger as possible, and a follow up process to ensure that these steps have been taken and are effective. Certainly, an effort that is worth the investment of time. Case Study: The following real-life case study is offered as an example of how proper attention to maintaining a safe com- munity can make a difference. Recently, a two-year-old child play- ing with his parents in a pile of snow left by the snow contractor was struck on the head and critically injured by a limb from a white pine tree. The limb CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 54

in areas where they see small patches of black ice or slippery conditions (in addition to calling management to report the condi- tion). A cautionary note might be included about wearing proper foot- wear, walking more slowly, keeping your feet under your center of gravity and avoiding going outside during a storm or until the contractor has finished with their operations. While the objective is to keep people safe, there is also an issue with the extent to which a homeowner contributes to their own slip and fall, especially where their expectation of services to be provided has been sent to them in advance, or when they go out to

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