Walk Your Site by Gord Rajewski, R.E.T. of A.D. Williams Engineering

Strata corporation councils and owners alike should undertake a "walk-around" inspection of their strata plan's site. These inspections should take place regularly. It is especially vital that they be done in the fall, prior to the arrival of the cold and precipitation. In spring use inspections to identify winter damage so repairs can be completed before fall.

If the roofs are finished with shingles, visually ensure that the shingles are all in place, and there are not "bare spots" showing, broken or loose shingles. Eaves trough gutters and downspouts should also be checked. After the leaves have finished falling, gutters should be cleaned to ensure that when needed, they will provide adequate drainage. Check to ensure that the gutters remain attached to the buildings.

Visually review the exterior cladding. If the exterior features wood siding, check for loose, cracked or otherwise damaged boards, Check for popping nails, significant areas of damage should be repaired or replaced to restore the weather barrier integrity of the exterior cladding. If the building is clad with stucco, check for signs of cracking, bulged areas or unusual staining.

Note the visual condition of exterior caulking. Caulking is typically utilized to provide a seal against intrusion of moisture around window and door openings, and joints in the exterior cladding. Minor repair of caulked joints can be undertaken to restore weather tightness in the fall.

Note the condition of balcony decks, posts, guardrails and wooden steps. Any damaged or loose pieces should be repaired or replaced.

Have the unit owners check their windows and doors, ensuring that the weep holes are cleared of build-up, that windows slide and close properly, and that doors and windows are provided with adequate weather-stripping.

Once bedding plants and flowers have been cleared away, visually check the site drainage, particularly adjoining the foundations of buildings. It is essential that the soil slopes away from, and not towards, the building foundation, so positive drainage takes place.

A review of parking lots and roadways should also be done. Visually check the parking surfaces for signs of significant distress in the form or cracks, spalls, and collapse. Potholes should be re-built and minor repair undertaken prior to the onset of cold weather. Review the condition of all exterior drains.

Essentially, a walk of your site is intended to reveal any condition that might require attention, which could lead to a problem during the winter months, if not addressed.