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Find Blog Articles for Florida’s Condo, HOA and the Management Industry. 

30/40 Year Building Recertification: Your Property Depends on it.

30/40 Year Building Recertification: Your Property Depends on it.

  • Posted: Jan 10, 2024
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30/40 Year Building Recertification: Your Property Depends on it.

Building inspections are crucial for maintaining the safety and integrity of buildings. This is particularly true here in South Florida due to our region’s unique climate and environmental conditions. High humidity, Salt Air, extreme heat, and the hurricane season can all cause damage to building’s structure and envelopes over time. These are some of the reasons why building recertification has become mandated in South Florida every 30 or 40 years, depending on the building’s age.

 

Identifying Hidden Problems

Building inspections are essential to identify underlying problems that may not be readily apparent to residents. For instance, buildings may develop foundation cracks, leaks in the roof, or other issues that can pose significant risks to the property’s structural integrity. Regular inspections can catch these issues early and detect severe problems that may cause serious water damage or building collapse.

Building inspections can prevent these situations, uncover hidden issues, and allow for prompt repair or replacement. Identifying problems early on can also save property owners money and time by preventing more severe cases from developing. Deterioration in coastal environments is a progressive problem that will cost more to address as time passes. By addressing these problems, property owners can promote their buildings’ safety and structural integrity.

 

Cost Savings

Building inspections can provide property owners with significant cost savings in the long run by identifying potential issues early on. Often, structural engineers can find problems during an inspection that can be repaired immediately at a lower cost than if they were allowed to escalate into more significant issues.

For example, if a building inspector discovers a small leak in the roof, the property owner can have it repaired before it causes more extensive damage to the interior of the building. If left unattended, this leak could cause extensive water damage, resulting in costly repairs and possible damage to the building’s structure.

Inspectors may identify areas in the building that could be more energy-efficient. In this case, the property owner can upgrade the building’s insulation, HVAC, or lighting systems—leading to significant savings in energy costs and reducing the property owner’s overall operating expenses.

 

Experience and Expertise

Structural Workshop has extensive experience conducting building inspections. Our experienced engineers and inspectors work closely with clients to help them keep their buildings safeand well-maintained. Whether you are a property manager, building owner, or homeowner, we can help you navigate the complexity of building inspections. Please get in touch with us today to schedule a recertification or learn more about our services.

 



If your company needs marketing please contact our member
Jessica Vail
Vail Marketing Solutions
(908) 528.4087
www.vailmarketingsolutions.com

 

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‘Tis the season to be jolly, but safety should always come first!  Here are some Christmas tree fire safety tips to keep your holiday celebrations worry-free:

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but safety should always come first! Here are some Christmas tree fire safety tips to keep your holiday celebrations worry-free:

  • Posted: Dec 13, 2023
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‘Tis the season to be jolly, but safety should always come first! 🚒 Here are some Christmas tree fire safety tips to keep your holiday celebrations worry-free:

💦 Keep it Hydrated: Water your tree daily to prevent it from drying out and becoming a fire hazard.
🕯️Placement Matters: Position your tree away from heat or open-flame sources, like candles, heaters and fireplaces. We know, there are not many fireplaces in South Florida, but just in case 😉.
💡Lights Check: Inspect your holiday lights for any frayed wires or damaged bulbs before decorating.
🔌Unplug at Night: Remember to turn off tree lights before heading to bed or leaving home.
🎄Quality Ornaments: Use non-flammable or flame-resistant decorations to minimize risks.
🧯Fire Extinguisher Ready: Have a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.
We hope you follow these tips for a safe holiday season! While we are hopeful that you won’t experience any fire damage, remember that we are here for you, and we can manage ANY damage! 1-877-224-2532.
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4 “Tricks” to a Healthier Lake! Regularly test the water quality! by Allstate Resource Management

4 “Tricks” to a Healthier Lake! Regularly test the water quality! by Allstate Resource Management

The first step in keeping your lake healthy is regularly testing the water quality. Ensure that your lake management company is testing the water before treatments.

Use algae control.
Algae is a common problem in Florida lakes, but there are methods you can use to control it. Partnering with a professional lake company is key! A lake maintenance company can put together a comprehensive plan designed specifically for your lake.
Use aeration to promote healthy oxygen levels.
Aeration is essential for maintaining healthy oxygen levels in your lake. Use a lake aerator to keep the water moving and to promote healthy oxygen levels.
Control invasive plant species.
Invasive plant species, such as cattails or water hyacinths, can quickly take over your lake and create an unhealthy environment for aquatic life. Let our lake specialists work with your HOA to help control and eradicate invasive plants.
Contact us today: info@allstatemanagement.com or 954-382-9766
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Feller Engineering – From high rise office buildings, condominiums and hotels to large single family homes, regional malls, industrial warehouses, airports, municipal and Federal facilities, sports arenas and much more.

Feller Engineering – From high rise office buildings, condominiums and hotels to large single family homes, regional malls, industrial warehouses, airports, municipal and Federal facilities, sports arenas and much more.

Feller Engineering
myenni@fellerpe.com
cdiaz@fellerpe.com
914-467-1402
http://www.fellerpe.com

 

Our commitment to the team concept requires that the mechanical and electrical engineering of a project support the architectural and interior design concepts which have been approved by the client. As engineers, we look for inventive methods and solutions to maintain the integrity of the design, comply with codes and meet expected probable construction costs.

We have chosen consciously to remain a mid-size firm enabling Feller Engineering’s associates, officers and principals to provide personal attention to our client’s needs, assure that all the project requirements are met without over or under design, and that they are within the agreed budget.

We are not only committed to the design areas of the project, but once the construction documents are completed and the contractors are selected, we will meet with the client/architect and the assigned contractors to review the MEP design and resolve any areas of concern. During the construction of the project, our company commits itself to prompt shop drawing review and periodic site observations to assure that the project’s design intent and compliance with code are being met. The contractor’s requests for information or clarifications, extensive final punch listing and witness testings of the completed MEP construction are performed promptly and professionally.

This commitment assures the client that Feller Engineering will not only provide the design for the project, but will also provide engineering services through the entire construction and startup occupancy phases. Additionally, we remain available to resolve any issues that arise naturally or as a result of system changes as the project ages.

 

You know you’re doing great when you get hired for more than 1 job on a single project. by United Professional Engineering

You know you’re doing great when you get hired for more than 1 job on a single project. by United Professional Engineering

  • Posted: Nov 08, 2023
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You know you’re doing great when you get hired for more than 1 job on a single project.

From various concrete repairs to balcony slabs, walkways, columns, beams and metal framing, to condition assessments, drawings, bids, specs, special inspections, United Professional Engineering took care of this restoration project from start to finish.

We are the experts and we pride ourselves in quality service. Contact us today at (561) 582-1733 or visit upefl.com.

 


United Professional Engineering (UPE)

Provides a unique “one-stop-shop” for all your structural engineering needs in Palm Beach and Broward County. Our South Florida area founded firm has been in business since 1999 and we have a diverse team; from licensed designers and structural engineers to inspectors and general contractors. For that reason, our projects range from designing and restoration to structural inspections and more!

We understand how valuable your time is and we are committed to providing our industry leading expertise to your next project. Our team welcomes any and all challenges to ensure a smooth and cost effective project for all our clients and everyone involved. Your journey with us is important, and we take pride in making it memorable!

At UPE, we understand it is hard to find a service provider you can trust and count on and we are here to change that.

Today, one of the largest investments is building a structure and how to maintain its lifespan. Structural integrity, environmental factors, atmospheric elements, and maintaining aesthetics are all important factors that we evaluate very carefully, when working on a project.

Our highly qualified licensed designers, engineers and general contractors promises to ensure your investment is protected. We believe it’s important to exhibit and maintain an open communication network, while working towards each of our client’s best interests, as well as everyone involved.

We are committed to structural safety and serviceability, identify equilibrium conditions, resolve limitations and utilize preventive and corrective maintenance behavior. UPE is here to help accomplish each milestone of your project, together! Contact us today! 561-582-1733

 

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“RIMKUS” IS A WORLDWIDE LEADER IN ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND CONSULTING AND SO MUCH MORE.

“RIMKUS” IS A WORLDWIDE LEADER IN ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND CONSULTING AND SO MUCH MORE.

“RIMKUS” ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, CONSULTING AND SO MUCH MORE…

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO NEED ANY ASSISTANCE WITH YOUR 30, 40 OR 50 YEAR INSPECTIONS, CALCULATING AND PREPARING YOUR NEW RESERVE STUDIES OR NEED REPAIRS TO YOUR CONDOMINIUM PROPERTY — WATCH THEIR ONE MINUTE VIDEO.


Building Envelope Assessments

 The Rimkus Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Building Envelope Services team can provide a complete assessment of a structure’s building envelope (façades, roofs, windows, balconies, walkways, parking areas, etc.) describing the condition of such and all items in need of repair. A recommended timeline and a projected construction cost will also be provided to assist the owner in projecting future budgets.For a full survey of all building components, Rimkus can increase the scope of the survey and provide a full Property Condition Assessment (P.C.A.) including mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, elevators, and interiors.Building Envelope Assessments and PCAs are typically provided with 5- or 10-year projections; however, they may be customized to the client’s needs. These reports can be utilized as a tool to help create capital expenditure budgets and establish maintenance schedules.

Maximizing the value and life cycle of a building requires continuously maintaining performance and improving energy efficiency. Our building envelope services include:

  • Façade Inspections
  • Façade Restoration
  • Building Envelope Assessments
  • Roof Consulting
  • Waterproofing and Weatherproofing Assessments and Design
  • Historic Preservation
  • Pavement Engineering

RIMKUS

http://www.rimkus.com

AECAssignments@rimkus.com

800-580-3228

 

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Please call, text or email Chuck’s Painting, Inc. for all your Commercial and Residential painting needs.

Please call, text or email Chuck’s Painting, Inc. for all your Commercial and Residential painting needs.

This Project Located in Weston, Florida this house was fully renovated on the interior. The only thing left to do was to make the outside as beautiful as the inside. As you can see, we exceeded the homeowner’s expectations. For the past 44 years Chuck’s Painting, Inc. has been servicing the South Florida area

 

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Making the most of any  community’s operating budget and improving the lifestyles of its residents.

Making the most of any community’s operating budget and improving the lifestyles of its residents.

  • Posted: Nov 06, 2023
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Working with vendors is a large part of serving on the board of a managed community.

Every community has outside partners for services like landscaping, sanitation, cable and Internet provision, pool maintenance, plumbing, blacktop, valet services and more. Finding and learning what they do and how they can help.

Open and effective communication among the board, the management company and the vendors employed by the association is an important part of making the most of any community’s operating budget and improving the lifestyles of its residents. Focusing on great communication and why it matters.

Sherwin-Williams

What can happen if communication among those entities isn’t consistent, open and effective? “Ineffective communication with vendors can cost your community money, but more importantly, it can result in loss of trust,” according to Frank Mari, executive director of SFPMA.ORG  “That means trust that the residents have in both the management company and the board, and also the trust the board has in the management company to manage vendors and recommend the right vendors for the community. As they need qualified vendors they find many on SFPMA’s Members Directory to select from.”

Poor communication with vendors can cost your association money too. If you don’t understand the details in a contract and don’t keep an open line for questions and clarifications, you may not realize that your community isn’t getting the services you think you are signing up for…. and then you will need to pay for the missing elements separately, impacting your operating budget.

Mr.Mari says “Talk to your landscaper in the middle of winter, not just spring and summer,” he directed. “If you’re an auditor, check in with the board and management company a few times of year, not just when the audit needs to be done.” Call them ask them to do a walk through of your buildings and communities, Preventive Maintenance is Key.

If you aren’t sure whether or not your current property management maintains open communication with vendors, ask! It’s important to make sure that outside vendors operate in the best interests of your community. We are all well-versed in the importance of vendor relationships and effective communication,” Frank explained. “Boards appreciate that we bring that additional level of support. Because of the trust we create with our vendors, almost any situation between boards and vendors can be resolved fairly.”

Speaking the language A basic part of communication is simply understanding the language each party is speaking. Most board members are not going to be experts in all the areas of running a
managed community, but it’s important that you have a basic knowledge of the terminology being used. Board members are expected and required to execute contracts related to things like
landscaping and other topics they may not be previously familiar with,” Talk to your Property Manager and include your Law Firm with contracts. “That fiduciary responsibility means that they need to understand what they are signing, what the work entails. It’s not enough to just consider price. Board members need to know more about what vendors are doing in order to make sure it’s being done.”

All HOA and Condo boards should be involved early in vendor selection discussions and leave the details of execution to the management company. It is important the board communicate any critical elements of their vision for the community to the vendor and be clear about what they require from each potential vendor they meet with. Board members must know enough to
understand what they should expect, what level of service is being provided for their community and what reasonable expectations are for that vendor. A landscaping company
that cares for a dozen large properties isn’t going to hand-prune every shrub, but that may be what some board members expect because they don’t yet understand the basics of large-scale landscaping,” “Of course, a self-managed community is going require more knowledge from the board members as far as monitoring the work being done and knowing that contracts are being fulfilled properly. Having a professional management company involved takes that responsibility off board members, because we know best practices, thanks to our experience managing multiple communities.” If you are looking for a Management Company

Find Top Florida Companies on our Members Directory.

How can boards and management companies know they are up-to-date on the terminology and jargon being used by their vendors? Many management companies are SFPMA Members themselves, With this membership there are educational seminars or round tables that let board members hear directly from vendors. “In addition to our in-house educational opportunities, I suggest that board members go to home shows, garden shows and other trade events so they can interact directly with vendors and pick up literature on the latest techniques and products,”.

sfpma.com - network, educate with Florida's Property management industryI tell my members to spend time at meetings, seminars and expos at every one of them get to know the vendors, Collect brochures.  Build those relationships. Listen to the keynote speakers as well. Over the years, vendors have shared with me how they have been impacted by SFPMA and how it makes them want to be part of our success. Obviously, you learn a lot that you take back to their boards and educate them on new information.

All of our members, partners and board members are asked to focus on professional development and educational opportunities that are offered by our Association to our Industry. vendors in many different disciplines host events that allow property managers to earn continuing education credits, and that many welcome board member attendance as well.

When you get to know vendors, you’re ready to work with them as partners, to optimize your community association’s budget and improve the lifestyles of the residents in your community.

South Florida Property Management Association can help you work with vendors to make the most of your association’s budgets by learning about the Top Companies working in our Industry.

www.sfpma.org

Become a Member Today!

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What happens when it floods?  Contact us for a comprehensive inspection of your property’s Stormwater System.

What happens when it floods? Contact us for a comprehensive inspection of your property’s Stormwater System.

  • Posted: Oct 23, 2023
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What happens when it floods?

Water will flow from streets into your local storm drain and then to your lake. You will see lake levels rise during this time. Your local drainage district is hard at work in pump stations and control rooms managing water throughout South Florida. You will see this level of flooding till the main drainage system can catch up with the amount of rain that fell over the last 48 hours.
If you have not had your Stormwater System inspected within
the last year contact us for a comprehensive inspection of your property’s Stormwater System.

Contact us at:

Allstate Resource Management

954-382-9766 or info@allstatemanagement.com

Allstate Resource Management | 6900 S.W. 21st Court, Bldg. 9Davie, FL 33404

 


A Company You Can Trust!

Family-owned and operated for 25+ years!

Centrally located in South Florida!

Contact us today to find out how we can help your community!

Direct: 954-382-9766 or info@allstatemanagement.com
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Why Autumn Is a Pivotal Time for Your Waterbody – Summer may be over, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your lake or pond! Check out these fall maintenance tips

Why Autumn Is a Pivotal Time for Your Waterbody – Summer may be over, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your lake or pond! Check out these fall maintenance tips

  • Posted: Oct 21, 2023
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Should You Implement Lake and Pond Maintenance Services In the Fall?

As the transitional period between the summer and winter seasons, Autumn is a pivotal time to reflect on the challenges that your waterbody faced during the warmer months and contemplate your goals for the future. Autumn also provides an optimal window to implement maintenance services and water quality testing strategies that will help set your aquatic ecosystem up for success in the coming year.

 

Set Your Lake Up for Success This Fall

Autumn is a time of transition and no doubt, your waterbody will experience changes that manifest when spring and summer return. But stakeholders can shape these outcomes through an integrated management program that’s thoughtfully tailored to their unique property and budget. As the warmer months come to an end, an Aquatic Specialist can help property stakeholders assess the health and physical condition of their waterbodies and strategize a clear path to achieve their goals for the following year.

 


 

Address Aquatic Weeds & Muck with Mechanical Solutions

Weeds and pond algae are some of the most common problems that plague aquatic ecosystems during the warmer months. Though property owners and managers may be happy to see them disappear late in the season, the die-off of terrestrial and aquatic plants can impact the physical and chemical composition of the water, creating problems that seemingly lie dormant until warm weather returns. Mechanical harvesting and hydro-raking can be used to physically remove floating and submersed plants to prevent accumulation and muck development at the bottom.


Target Decomposing Pond Plants with Natural Biological Bacteria

Physical removal of pond weeds is effective, but plant fragments often remain. Biological bacteria play an essential role in the decomposition of remaining organic materials. They are found naturally in lakes and ponds, but can also be supplemented through a process called biological augmentation. These beneficial bacteria are aerobic, which means they require oxygen to carry out their metabolic processes.

 


Maintain Healthy Dissolved Oxygen Levels with Fountains & Aerators

But as the days grow shorter and cooler, dissolved oxygen (DO) can become depleted, reducing the efficiency of this process. Introducing floating aeration equipment or a submersed aerator can help maintain balanced DO levels, which facilitates decomposition and curbs the accumulation of nutrient-rich muck over the winter months. For stakeholders that already own a fountain or aerator, Autumn is an appropriate time to have units inspected and repaired to help prolong the performance of the equipment.

 


 

Balance Lake Nutrient Levels and Enhance Water Quality

Nutrients like phosphorus are an underlying cause of nuisance pond weed and algae growth. Phosphorus is naturally occurring in the water but is also transported by sources like lawn fertilizers, pet waste, trash, and agricultural runoff. Autumn is a good time to take action against nutrient imbalances and prevent explosive weeds and algae when the spring season arrives. If water quality tests reveal elevated phosphorus levels, products like Phoslock¹, Alum, and EutroSORB² can help target excess nutrients in waterbodies of all shapes, sizes, and uses. A professional can recommend the best solution based on the characteristics of your waterbody

 


Read the Full Article includes a larger list of services for your Lakes. 

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Managing Waste Webinar  Hosted by the Business Waste Assessments Section  Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023  11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Hosted on Zoom

Managing Waste Webinar Hosted by the Business Waste Assessments Section Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hosted on Zoom

Managing Waste Webinar

Hosted by the Business Waste Assessments Section

Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Hosted on Zoom – link available when you register.

Register for free today! 

 

The Department of Solid Waste is hosting a free solid and hazardous waste management webinar for property managers and waste haulers. Learn what your roles and responsibilities are for managing other people’s waste and wastes generated at your properties. You will have the opportunity to ask the Business Waste Assessments team questions. The webinar will give an overview of solid, hazardous and universal waste regulations and management practices including:

  • Waste determinations
  • Proper storage
  • Disposal options
  • Record keeping

Who should attend?

  • Anyone handling other people’s waste
  • Property managers
  • Manufactured housing management companies
  • Homeowners’ associations
  • Trash hauling and junk removal companies
  • Storage facility management companies

The webinar will not be recorded.

Resources

Use our Where Does It Go? Search Tool to help determine what wastes are hazardous and what to do with them. Find local resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. To be directed to the proper information, first select “For Businesses.”

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