How to Avoid Buying Leaky Condos in British Columbia

Leaky condos in British Columbia are becoming all too common. Known as the leaky condo crisis, rotten condo crisis, or leaky condo syndrome, leaky condos in British Columbia and Alberta have been plaguing would-be homeowners, and homeowners, for too long. Rainwater gets into these buildings, causing billions of dollars in damage and requiring extensive assessment and repairs.

The building envelope refers to structural elements of a building, including the foundation, walls, and roof, that protect the interior of the home from the elements. The manner in which the building envelope is constructed and maintained has a tremendous impact on energy efficiency, weather-proofing, and the lifespan of the property.

HOW CAN YOU AVOID BEING PLAGUED BY LEAKY CONDOS IN British Columbia?

How can you avoid being plagued by leaky condos in BC? It's important to know how to avoid any structures suffering from this syndrome, so you can save your time, energy, and money, and focus on finding a home that is safe and dry.

A condo that is safe and dry is one with an intact, properly designed building envelope. When it comes to general contracting in BC - the people who help build homes, and handle building envelopes - you should trust that the company who dealt with the condo you're considering is trustworthy. In BC you can look for a company that is a member of the British Columbia Building Envelope Council, offers a warranty on any work done, and carries liability insurance.

The same holds true if you are considering a condo that once was leaky but has since been restored. Building restoration done by companies specializing in general contracting in BC should be trustworthy, and this means ensuring the contractors stand behind their work in every way possible.

Talk to your realtor about avoiding leaky condos in BC, and once you find a condo you're interested in, hire an inspector experienced in seeking out leaky condo syndrome. Be sure to look at all of the paperwork and documentation regarding the house, the contractor, and anything else that could point to a leaky condo issue. Do not be afraid to ask questions - you should feel 100% confident in your purchase.

WHAT IF I ALREADY OWN A LEAKY CONDO?

Protect Yourself and Your Investment with a Licensed Contractor for Your Wet Weather Repairs

The value and lifespan of your condo rests on its ability to withstand weather extremes. Water damage is insidious; it can start slowly in hard to detect areas and, over time, undermine the integrity of your condo, causing extensive and expensive damage. Stories abound of retirement funds and savings accounts wiped out over costly repairs that could have been avoided if action was taken by a licensed professional ahead of time.

A Worthy Profession

A licensed BC contractor is trained and experienced in detecting and effectively treating the kind of leaks your BC condo may experience over the years. A contractor is a licensed professional who is versed in modern building practices and the vital safety and building codes designed to keep your condo weathering the elements year after year.

DIY?

Some condo owners are tempted to try to fix a leak themselves or hire a “handyman" to do the job. But while saving money by just replacing a roof tile here or applying some caulking there might seem the “easy" and inexpensive option, you may just be putting a band-aid on a much bigger problem. And Condo property managers understand the importance of dealing with leaks and hiring the right person for the job.

A contractor will be able to evaluate your condo's building envelope - the structures that include the roof, windows, and walls, and provide climate control and weather resistance - and make an assessment of what repairs need to be made. You may not need a lot of work. A licensed BC contractor will be able to tell you exactly what is needed, when the work needs to be done by, and give you a cost estimate ahead of time.

Don't let a leaky roof or window go untreated and undermine the value and livability of your condo. Contact a licensed BC contractor today.