Storm Alex Property Management challenges
Alex arrived as forecast, no not a friend visiting for the weekend but the first named storm of the winter to hit the UK. When the weather forecast includes the threat of weather like Storm Alex, naturally property owners give thought as to how their homes will fair; that’s property management too. It is inevitable therefore that managers of apartment blocks have similar thoughts, but magnified significantly. James Lethaby, Director of west country specialist block management agents, based in North Devon, Peninsula Management reported. “Yes, when you manage hundreds of residential units within numerous large buildings, the weather forecast has a little more importance. Storm Alex is this year’s first, a challenge for property management. Some apartment blocks enjoy really fantastic coastal locations, from where you can enjoy magnificent sea views. This can mean that the elements in a storm are a particular test. The common thread of all the blocks is that they are generally all large, high multistorey buildings, being home for many residents.
“We provide the reassurance of a 24/7 service, so in the event of an emergency when the likes of Storm Alex arrives our clients can call for support” continued James. “Water is the obvious immediate threat as it can quickly create significant damage, affecting more than one leaseholder and if electrical circuits are affected this can be a potential fire risk. We have had a couple of minor issues today, which we were able to deal with without real impact, illustrating the value of us having our own in-house maintenance team, so that we are always able to respond, giving our clients peace of mind.”
The best way to prepare for the inevitable winter storms is by proactive, preventative maintenance, an approach we promote strongly to the directors of any Resident Management Company. A small example is the cleaning of gutters essential. A job so easy to overlook or perhaps delay until next year because if several stories high this can be challenging and costly. However, not doing so can prove considerably more costly, creating unnecessary angst for residents too.
Winter Property Management
So as Alex moves on we know we will visited by other storms this winter, the next being Bella, hopefully not too soon. We hope that the Met Office doesn’t have to progress too far through the alphabet before the winter is out, but Peninsula Management is prepared, both through a proactive approach with their in-house maintenance team.
Photo The Independent