A comprehensive maintenance checklist for Vancouver Strata councils covering all building systems — from roof to foundation, mechanical to cosmetic.
Managing a Strata building in Vancouver requires tracking dozens of maintenance items across multiple building systems. Missing even one critical item — like clearing roof drains before the rainy season or servicing the fire suppression system — can result in costly damage, insurance claims, or bylaw violations. This comprehensive checklist covers the major systems and tasks that every Vancouver Strata council should be tracking.
BUILDING ENVELOPE: Inspect roof membrane and flashings (biannual), clear roof drains and scuppers (quarterly), inspect and maintain siding/cladding (annual), check window and door seals (annual), inspect balcony membranes and railings (annual), clean and inspect gutters and downspouts (biannual), check parkade membrane and drainage (annual), and review building envelope maintenance report if applicable.
MECHANICAL SYSTEMS: Service HVAC systems including boilers, heat pumps, and ventilation (biannual), inspect and test fire alarm and sprinkler systems (annual), service elevators per TSBC requirements (monthly/quarterly), inspect and test emergency generator (monthly), service domestic hot water systems (annual), inspect and clean dryer exhaust venting (annual — critical fire safety), and check make-up air unit operation and filters (quarterly).
PLUMBING: Inspect main water shut-off valves (annual), flush water heaters and check anode rods (annual), camera-inspect main sewer lines (every 3–5 years), test backflow prevention devices (annual), check for evidence of leaks in mechanical rooms and common areas (monthly), and assess age and condition of building supply and drain piping (as recommended by depreciation report).
ELECTRICAL: Inspect electrical panels in common areas and mechanical rooms (annual), test emergency lighting and exit signs (monthly), inspect parking area and common area lighting (quarterly), check ground fault protection in wet areas (annual), and review electrical system capacity for any planned upgrades.
GROUNDS AND EXTERIOR: Maintain landscaping per seasonal schedule, inspect and repair parking lot and walkway surfaces (annual), check exterior lighting and security cameras (quarterly), inspect fencing, gates, and access controls (quarterly), maintain irrigation systems (seasonal), and ensure proper grading and drainage away from the building (annual).
SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE: Update and test fire safety plan (annual), inspect fire extinguishers (annual), review and update emergency procedures (annual), conduct fire drill (annual, recommended), verify insurance coverage and update values (annual), review WorkSafeBC compliance for contracted services, and ensure gas appliance inspections are current.
FINANCIAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE: Update depreciation report (every 3 years minimum), review contingency reserve fund adequacy (annual), obtain competitive quotes for major maintenance items (as needed), maintain maintenance log and documentation (ongoing), and review and update service contracts (annual).
Strata Property Services can handle every item on this checklist through our 13 trade divisions. One call, one company, complete building maintenance with unified documentation for your Strata records. Contact us at 604-761-1518 to discuss a comprehensive maintenance program for your Vancouver Strata property.