Raise awareness and take action: a collective effort to prevent water damage

Water damage is one of the most frequent and costly losses in co-ownership. However, many damages can be avoided thanks to preventive solutions. Their implementation is based on collaboration between the board of directors, managers and co-owners. Together, they can adopt effective strategies to reduce risks and protect buildings.

The Board of Directors’ Role in Raising Awareness

As a representative of the co-owners, the board of directors is on the front lines to promote a culture of prevention. Here’s how it can play an active role:
1. Inform co-owners about the risks: Organize meetings or information campaigns to explain the common causes of water damage and the financial consequences, including increased insurance premiums and deductibles and disruptions for residents.
2. Communicate best practices and educate on individual responsibilities: Remind them of the importance of maintaining individual equipment (washing machines, water heaters, shut-off valves) and share simple tips for preventing leaks.
3. Present concrete solutions and initiate collective projects: Propose proven prevention systems, such as automated water shut-off systems, which detect leaks and stop the flow before major damage occurs. Submit these installation projects in both common areas and individual units to transform a vulnerable condominium into a building secured against water leaks.

The manager, an expert to support the transition

The condominium manager is an essential partner in transforming ideas into actions. Thanks to his expertise, he can help the board of directors evaluate options and raise awareness among the syndicate:
1. Assess the building’s needs: By calling on experts in the field, identify vulnerable areas (risers, technical rooms, individual units) and recommend specific solutions, such as installing sensors in strategic locations.
2. Recommend reliable technologies: Advise the syndicate on efficient and suitable systems, such as automatic water detection and cut-off devices.
3. Budget planning: Help the syndicate evaluate installation costs and demonstrate how these investments generate long-term savings, particularly by reducing claims and insurance premium increases.
4. Ongoing awareness: Share testimonials or case studies of condominiums that have installed prevention systems, emphasizing their effectiveness and return on investment.

Water shutoff systems: a strategic investment

Water shutoff systems are much more than a technological tool: they are a sustainable solution to protect condominiums against unforeseen expenses. These devices detect anomalies, such as leaks or burst pipes, in real time and automatically cut off the water, thus preventing major damage.

In addition to protecting buildings, these systems often reduce insurance premiums and increase the value of units through proactive risk management.

Together for a better protected condominium

Preventing water damage relies on close collaboration between the board of directors, managers and co-owners. Adopting modern solutions, such as water shutoff systems, is a proactive approach that protects both residents and the building’s assets.

Sandrine Brousseau
Security advisor
Groupe Vigilance
866 522 7911 x1709
23 Chemin de Lavaltrie, Lavaltrie, QC, J5T 2H3
[email protected]

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