Proactive and regular maintenance is crucial for strata properties, just as it is for residential homes. Regular upkeep reduces risks, safeguards property value, and minimises the likelihood of insurance claims. At CHU, we’ve seen how proactive maintenance helps mitigate risks and ensures better outcomes for strata properties.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Strata buildings face unique challenges, from weather extremes to wear-and-tear and defects. Neglecting maintenance can lead to escalating costs, safety hazards, and compliance issues. Addressing problems early reduces claim severity, protects property value, and ensures resident safety.
Strata Building Maintenance Checklist
1. Building Inspections:
Schedule regular checks of roofs, gutters, plumbing, and infrastructure.
Keep detailed repair and inspection records.
Address defects promptly to avoid costly repairs.
2. Fire Safety:
Ensure smoke alarms, sprinklers, and other systems are operational and inspected.
Educate residents on fire risks and evacuation procedures.
Keep emergency exits clear and accessible.
3. Storm Preparedness:
Maintain roofs and clear gutters to prepare for heavy rainfall.
Trim overhanging trees and secure loose items to minimise storm damage.
Encourage early reporting and rectification of leaks or damages.
4. Compliance:
Use qualified tradespeople for repair and maintenance work and ensure it meets WA strata legislation.
Noncompliance increases risks and affects building insurability.
How proactive maintenance plans can assist with insurance
While insurance provides protection against unexpected events, lack of maintenance can result in a higher risk profile for the strata building. Proactive maintenance practices like routine checks, prompt repairs, and record-keeping help minimise risks and are viewed favourably by insurers.
CHU: Your Strata Insurance Partner
For over 45 years, CHU has been Australia’s leading strata insurance specialist. We provide comprehensive coverage and also offer strata and risk services that will help strata managers and property owners mitigate risks and improve building safety, compliance, and overall resilience.
Ready to Protect Your Property?
Contact CHU to learn how our strata insurance solutions and expertise can support strata committees, strata managers and insurance brokers.
Disclaimer: Insurance issued by QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited ABN 78 003 191 035 and distributed by CHU Underwriting Agencies Pty Ltd ABN 18 001 580 070 AFSL 243261. Any advice in this article is general in nature and does not consider your personal objectives, financial situation, and needs. Please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (‘PDS’), Financial Services Guide (‘FSG’), and the Target Market Determination (‘TMD’), which can be viewed at www.chu.com.au or obtained by contacting CHU directly. CHU Services Pty Ltd t/as CHU Inspect (ABN 99 616 086 269).
This article was brought to you by CHU Underwriting Agencies
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