It's early to start thinking about snow removal, but driving around the city over the past weekend and I saw my first truck that had the snow plough attachment on it! The white stuff will be here before we know it….

One of the major benefits to living in a condominium is the convenience of the snow removal services provided.

Unfortunately, not everyone can be the first to have his/her snow removed. As the agreements with the contractors state, there must be a minimum of 5 cm of falling snow from the beginning to the end of a snowfall for the snow to be removed. Also, contractors have up to eight hours to come and remove your snow. Remember to be patient, and the contractors will come and remove your snow as soon as they can.

Some questions and concerns have arisen with the use of salt for melting ice. One concern is that it will damage the cement. Our contractors tell us that this is true if the cement has been laid for less than 3 months. Otherwise, it is safe to use salt on your sidewalk.

Another concern is the damaging effects salt can have on the environment. It is important to remember that for insurance purposes, something must be done to prevent injuries, like those caused by slipping and falling. A good alternative to salt is calcium chloride, commercially know as 'ice melt'. It is a bit more expensive, but it is fast acting. The specs suggest that it does not damage grass and works up to -30C. The amount of salt spread is determined by current and potential weather conditions at the discretion of the snow removal company, as it is their liability and yours that is at risk.

If you have concerns regarding your snow removal, please feel free to contact the office and speak to your Property Manager. Our Receptionist, Wendy, will be happy to direct your call if you are unsure of who manages your Property.

Wishing everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday Season from Mather Management Services!

Be Smart About Salt

During winter snow melt, salt runs off to local creeks or makes its way into the ground where it affects our drinking water sources.

When we use salt, only when necessary and in the right amount, there is less salt to make its way into our groundwater and surface water. That's good new for everyone.

You can do your part this winter:

We all have a role to play in maintaining safe winter conditions. Remember, the more we're prepared for snow and ice, the less need we have for bare pavement. This means less salt.

• Learn how and when to use salt. Did you know salt doesn't work well below -10C?
• Wear footwear that grips ice and snow.
• Consider winter tires for your car.

Water Tips

• Taps - An inexpensive and easy to install aerator can reduce the amount of water used at the tap by 50 per cent!
• Showers - Pick up a water-saving showerhead on your next visit to the hardware store. Already got one? Then challenge yourself to a five-minute (or less) shower!
• Toilets - Replace your old, water-guzzling toilet with a new high-efficiency water-saving toilet.
• Dishwashers - Make sure your dishwasher is completely full before running it. When it's time for a new one, choose a water-saving model.
• Washer - Buy a front-loading washing machine and reduce your water and energy consumption by half.
• Water Softener - Get a "smart" water softener that runs only when necessary.
• Lawn Watering - Water only during the morning and evening hours on your watering day to avoid evaporation. Tip! Your lawn only needs 2.5 cm of water per week. Place a Frisbee on the lawn when you water. When it's full, you're done!
• Naturescaping - Replace some or all of your lawn with native or drought-tolerant plants.
• Storm Sewers - Keep all chemical like car washing soap, household cleaners, gasoline and oil away from the sewers on your road.
• Car Washing - Wash your car with a pail of water instead of a running hose or power washer. Chemical-free soap is best!

Don't believe the sales pitch offering "carefree lifestyle". If nothing else, remember that. Condominium living has its own peculiar characteristics that do not appeal to everyone. You will be living very close to your neighbours and cannot build a fence if you do not like them. Also, you will own property in common with your neighbours, very similar to becoming partners with them.

 Every Condominium Corporation has it's own unique rules and regulations contained in the Declaration, By-Laws and Common Element Rules. Obtain copies of these documents and read them. If you do not understand them, ask questions. For example, do you like and want pets? These documents will say whether or not you are allowed to have a pet. Don't assume that you can change these documents once you move in because that will not happen.

 In addition to your mortgage payment and property taxes, you will pay a monthly "common fee" to the Condominium Corporation. This is your unit's portion of the annual expenses necessary to manage and maintain the Condominium Corporation.  No two Corporations charge the same common fee, nor do they include the same items in the common fee.  Utilities, cable and parking may be included in the common fee, or it can be an additional charge to you in addition to the common fee.  Find out the answers before you make your offer.

 Insurance is still required; however, unlike a single family home there are two policies. The Condominium Corporation has a master policy that insures the building, common areas and your unit in the condition it was at the time the property was registered as a condominium. You must purchase a policy that insures any improvements to your unit as well as your own personal contents. Any reputable insurance company can help you purchase the insurance to meet your needs.

Conventional mortgages are available for condominiums, just as they are for single family homes. High ratio mortgages (CMHC insured) may not be available on all condos. Thus, please investigate before you agree to purchase. This will directly affect the amount of the down payment you have to invest yourself.

 The Condominium Corporation is managed by a Board of Directors made up of your fellow owners elected at the Annual Meeting. You can be elected to the Board and should get involved to protect your investment. At the very least, attend the meeting and read the minutes and notices you will receive. Getting involved will guarantee you a more satisfactory life as a condominium owner.

Carolin Hodges

Accounting Manager

 Just like a single family home, you can sell a condo privately or by listing the property with a real estate agent. Condos are more complicated than single family homes and you may find it easier to list the property with an agent.

It helps to advise potential purchasers of the names of Board Members, Management Company and the Superintendents, if applicable.  This allows the purchasers to complete their investigation and make their decision quickly.

 A Status Certificate can only be ordered and issued from the Management Company currently under contract by the Corporation.  

 A Status Certificate is a legally binding document which outlines not only the account status of a Condominium Unit, but also the financial and legal position of the Corporation as a whole.

This important document allows a potential investor to make an educated decision about what they are buying. The Certificate helps identify potential liabilities and determine the financial stability of a Condominium Corporation.

 It also provides the requestor with important documentation such as:

• proof of Insurance for the Corporation; a copy of the current budget

• a copy of the most recent Audited Financial Statement

• a copy of the Form 15

• Notice of Future Funding of the Reserve Fund for the most recent Reserve Fund Study

• a copy of the Declaration

• By-Laws

• Rules and Regulations for the Corporation