Early Signs of a Leaky Condo in Vancouver

The word “condo” can mean a lot of things. A condo can be in a high-rise, or it can units attached at ground level or a host of other configurations. Basically, condo just means that you own your own unit but share other parts of the property such as lawns or hallways or other buildings or shared spaces.

So, what you might see as an early sign of leaky condo might be vary depending on what kind of building structure we are talking about. In today’s blog article, we are going to briefly describe some general early signs of a leaky condo such as you might find in Vancouver. Vancouver is known for its damp, oceanic climate with a distinct dry season and rainy season. Leaky buildings are common in Vancouver.

Paint

You might see paint discolouration such as streaks or round stains. These might be on a wall, a ceiling, or commonly where the wall meets the ceilings especially in corners.

Flooring

Flooring might buckle, or become discoloured, or even mushy, as a sign that water is coming in.

Walls and Ceiling

Look for sagging or soft spots, these are clear signs that water is behind the drywall.

Windows/Doors

Around windows and doors, there may be some paint peeling or changing colour. Paint may be stained below windows. Look for condensation between window panes.

Smells

Sometimes smell is the first sign. Some people will note a musty smell, which is likely from mold or mildew from hidden wet areas.

If you see or smell these things, get some professional help, because a leaky condo suggests that several condos may have a water problem. 

We work on both residential and commercial projects in Vancouver. Please feel free to contact us at (778) 881-2877. 

Westerly Restoration provides building envelope and restoration services in Vancouver, BC, and throughout the lower mainland.

If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about building envelopes or restoration, please call us at (778) 881-2877 or use the convenient form on our Contact page.