Monday, April 19, 2010

Lead-Safe Certified? It's not just for Contractors



Lead-based paint was banned in 1978, but houses built before then probably still contain leaded paint. Children, particularly under the age of six, are most at risk from even small amounts of lead, and the damage can be permanent.


Common renovation such as sanding, cutting, and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to both adults and children.


To protect against this risk, in April 2008, EPA issued a rule requiring the use of lead-safe practices and other actions aimed at preventing lead poisoning.


To go a step further, beginning on April 22, 2010 contractors as well as property owners who perform renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must now be certified in the new EPA Renovation, Repair & Painting Rule (RRP) and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.

Also before beginning work, you must provide tenants with a copy of EPA's lead hazard information pamphlet Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers, and Schools (PDF)

To find out more go to the EPA website









Saturday, April 10, 2010

Types of Property Management

What type of Property Management do you require?



Residential or Apartment Property Management
A Residential Property Manager will manage single family homes or a 1 unit property whether it be in a neighborhood, community or condominium association. They may also manage duplexes to large multi-unit or apartment buildings.






Vacation Rental Management
If you own a property in a popular vacation destination and want to rent it out on a nightly or short term lease you may consider using a Vacation Property Manager. These management companies specialize in managing vacation rentals and know the in's and out's of this type of business.




Commercial Property Management
A Commercial Property Management company will likely manage all types of retail and office space. This could include shopping and strip malls, warehouses, manufacturing, office building, parking facilities and hotels. If your property use is for anything other than residential housing, chances are it would fall in the commercial management category.



Community Association Management
If you are looking for a management company to oversee all aspects of the management of a community association as a whole, then look no further. You are in need of a Community Association Management company. They will take care of all maintenance, financials, enforcement of community rules etc.. for the whole community.