As many North Vancouver strata communities gear up for winter storms, it’s a good reminder of how important it is to look after both common and bylaw-designated property—balconies, decks, patios, and the all-important drains and gutters that keep homes protected. From my experience working with buyers and sellers throughout the Lower Mainland, I’ve seen how regular upkeep can make all the difference. Owners are usually tasked with keeping their patios swept, clean, and well-maintained, while strata corporations handle clearing drain systems, stacks, and gutters. Annual flushing of exterior drains and parking garages is key, since debris from storms and landscaping builds up quickly, and prevention is always less costly than sudden repairs. If there’s damage inside a unit, it’s important for the strata to contact their insurer first; if the loss is below the deductible, it often falls to the homeowner’s policy. Flooding that affects patio-facing walls, doors, or exterior cladding can become a strata responsibility—this is where proactive service agreements and regular inspections really pay off by minimizing winter losses. As someone who helps clients navigate these details every day, I know how valuable it is to stay ahead of potential issues before the weather hits.
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