Property Maintenance and Operations Flashcards

A condominium association discovers asbestos-containing materials during a renovation project. What is the required course of action under federal law?

Answer: Halt work and engage a licensed asbestos abatement contractor

Federal EPA and OSHA regulations require stopping work and hiring licensed abatement professionals when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed.

Which type of maintenance contract gives a community association the MOST predictable annual cost for elevator service?

Answer: Full-service (comprehensive) maintenance contract

A full-service or comprehensive contract covers all parts and labor for a fixed annual fee, providing the most budget predictability.

A manager is reviewing a swimming pool service contract. Which of the following is MOST important to verify?

Answer: That the vendor holds proper licensing and liability insurance

Proper licensing ensures compliance with health codes, and adequate liability insurance protects the association from claims arising from pool service.

An association's aging irrigation system is causing significant water waste. Upgrading to a smart irrigation controller would BEST address which operational goal?

Answer: Reducing water consumption and utility costs through automated scheduling

Smart irrigation controllers adjust watering schedules based on weather data, directly reducing water waste and lowering utility expenses.

When a major plumbing repair is needed and the cost exceeds the board's spending authority, what should the manager do?

Answer: Call a special board meeting or obtain written approval per governing documents

Expenditures exceeding the board's spending threshold require proper authorization; a special meeting or written consent satisfies this requirement while addressing urgency.

A property manager wants to track the history of repairs to common area equipment. The BEST tool for this purpose is:

Answer: A maintenance log or work order management system

A maintenance log or work order system creates a documented history that supports warranty claims, insurance documentation, and future planning.

Which of the following BEST describes the difference between a capital improvement and a repair in community association accounting?

Answer: A capital improvement adds new value or significantly extends component life; a repair restores existing function

Capital improvements add new value or substantially extend useful life and are typically reserve-funded, while repairs restore existing functionality and are expensed operationally.