WORKERS
CONTRACTORS
COMPANIES
HOMEOWNERS
W W W. 2 BY 4 G TA . C A
Volume 2/ Issue 1/ Februar y 7-March 5, 2018 / GTA West
Chinese company cccc bought the leading Canadian construction company : Ottawa sits on hands
opposition. Aecon is expected to retain its name and remain headquartered in Canada. Opposition to the deal has been politically unilateral, yet perhaps articulated most concisely by former Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister, Peter MacKay’s opinion piece in iPolitics. CCCC being a state-owned enterprise could pose a security threat to Canada due to advanced knowledge and access to our infrastructure through the deal, he argues. A contract for renovations to the Darlington nuclear power complex, for example, has been given to Aecon recently. Findings by the Globe and Mail that CCCC plans to install a communist party unit in Aecon’s corporate ranks only further aggravates the situation. Security and politics aside, the move would be economically harmful to Canadians, argues MacKay, pointing out that infrastructure investments tend to result in better standards of living, ...
By Sarah McGoldrick and Joey Clavette In a move that could chip away at Canada’s economic sovereignty, China’s state-owned Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC), through its subsidiary CCCC International Holdings Limited (CCCI), is attempting to acquire Aecon Group, Canada’s third-largest construction company. Aecon provides construction services for core segments of the industry including Infrastructure, Energy, Mining, and Concessions. Aecon has been a
significant builder in Canadian history, known for constructing the CN Tower, Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and other Canadian landmarks. The agreement includes the acquisition of all issued and outstanding common shares of Aecon for $20.37 per share in cash, with a total value of $1.51 billion. The acquisition has raised public concern with all major national newspapers printing editorials on the subject, both in favour and
Ellis Don
Ontario’ s New Canadian Company Construction and t r a i n s w o m e n Building Codes f o r t h e t r a d e s
tackles new form of
public-private relationship
in Trafalgar project
Continued on p.2
By Bahar Faizi Women Building Futures (WBF) is the first organization of its kind, and is currently in the process of expanding to other provinces, including Ontario. The WBF is a nonprofit that trains women of all ages to succeed in skilled trades and construction. The program assists graduates in landing jobs, and helps students receive the mentorship and support needed throughout their training.
Read about the construction of the new Trafalgar hospital in Oakville, and the innovative new public-private relationship EllisDon and Carillion Canada made that might shape future public-private projects.
Continued on p.4
Continued on p.6
The new Construction Act has initiated a number of regulatory changes, including, a) extending the timelines to file liens and start court actions to 150 days, providing additional time for contractors and subcontractors to resolve disputes out of court; b) requiring holdback funds to be paid immediately following the passing of the deadline to file a liens, ensuring contractors and subcontractors are paid on time;... Continued on p.5
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News Editor-In-Chief Joey Clavette Editor@2by4gta.ca | (613) 668-5527 Contributing Editor Rowan Walters
China attempts to buy leading Canadian
construction company: Ottawa sits on hands Started on p.1
but this may be in jeopardy if China becomes the main benefactor Furthermore, Chinese interests would dictate that Aecon buy Chinese steel, further harming the steel industry in Canada. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been relatively quiet on the matter stating merely that it “will be examined very carefully by the Investment Canada Act to ensure that safety and security is [sic] not being compromised and to ensure that it is in the net benefit of Canadians.” 2BY4 spoke to Senior Manager at CCCC/ CCCI, Cindy Wei who defended the deal saying that the expansion opportunities will have a positive effect on business in Canada. “The partnership expansion will be the responsibility of Aecon’s existing management to identify. Aecon has a formidable management team dedicated to growth,” she said, adding previous acquisitions like the John Holland purchase has resulted in sizable gains.
“Several years ago we acquired John Holland, one of the largest construction companies in Australia. It is now on track to double in size. One reason for this impressive growth is that we kept in place an entirely Australian management team that knows and understands its market.” She said this will be the same approach CCCI will take with Aecon. “No one knows the Canadian market better than its strong Canadian management team,” she said. “What they need is the capital and strong backing to seize the opportunities. That’s what this merger will provide.” CCCI President, Lu Jianzhong and Aecon CEO, John Beck both released similar media statements, with Aecon highlighting that Aecon would retain its Canadian values. CCCC has operations in 140 countries and regions. It operates through 37 principal wholly-owned or controlled subsidiaries with 118,000 employees and over 3000 projects. In recent years CCCI has expanded its
worldwide presence including the acquisition of Australian based engineering and construction company, John Holland group in 2015 and US-based architecture and engineering firm Friede and Goldman in 2010. Notably, John Holland got into hot water in the summer of 2016 when roof tiles bought from the Chinese company, Yuanda were installed on a children’s hospital in Perth. After workers drilled into the tiles, a white dust, later discovered to be asbestos, covered the workers. Wei would not say whether there are additional acquisitions in Canada on the horizon, adding that the main focus is the completion of the Aecon deal. “In terms of Canada, we have one focus: successfully completing the shareholder agreements, and the regulatory approvals that will finalize this very positive deal,” she said. She added that the deal is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2018.
Contributors Bahar Faizi Carina Simniceanu David Goldberg Denis Langlois Jason J. LeBlanc Sarah McGoldrick Cartoonist Adrian Bienias Photographers Petronella Duda Matthew Dabrowski President, Director of Business Development Sławomir Haluszka Slavo@2by4gta.ca | (647) 297-0847 CEO, Production Manager, Multi-Media Sales Matthew Dabrowski Matt@2by4gta.ca | (647) 771-1691 Marketing and Social Media Manager Christine Szapiel Cs.szapiel@gmail.com | (416) 206-2334 Operations Manager Anastasia Nabokova operations@2by4gta.ca | (416) 628-6254 Account Manager Catherine Healy catherine@2by4gta.ca | (647) 831-8859 Graphic and Newspaper Designer Advertising Coordinator Olha Tkachenko design@2by4gta.ca Web Designer and Developer Gurpartap Singh Web Developer Damian Sobkowiak
Cost of Living in
Toronto-
Is Renting a Condo The Best Option? By Bahar Faizi In 2015, Toronto was ranked as the nation’s second most expensive city to purchase a home in, falling behind only Vancouver. Since then, prices have only increased. As a large and growing urban centre, Toronto manages to maintain over 2.9 million residents while constantly attracting more people. All this, despite the high cost of renting or purchasing property. Due to a high rate of employment and entertainment options, Toronto is able to get away with ridiculously high homeownership
costs. The average cost to own a home is a whopping $743,500, compared to only $369,400 in the nation’s capital—Ottawa. Moving slightly away from the city to Oakville/ Milton only brings the price down to $683,400. Within Toronto, the cost of living varies depending on the region. The downtown city centre is home to a bustling business district and living making it an attractive locale. Living outside downtown comes with increased transportation time and costs for those who are employed there. This enables the downtown real estate market to remain
increasingly lucrative. The cost of purchasing a home in or close to Toronto is one which most people can’t comfortably afford to take on. Renting is a growing option but hardly an affordable one costing $1745/month on average to rent a one bedroom in the city centre. Outside the city centre, the cost of renting goes down to $1396 a month which is still quite costly for a single unit apartment given the notoriously shrinking size of Toronto units. Three bedroom downtown apartments, which can either be split amongst roommates or used to house families cost $3046 a month on average and up to $4000 a month. Outside downtown, the price is an average of $2180, and possibly up to $2700 a month for three bedroom apartment rentals. Given that Toronto’s monthly transit pass is the fifth most expensive in the world, and traffic is a growing issue, many people choose to settle for the higher cost of living downtown to avoid dealing with the otherwise timely and pricey commute. A TTC monthly pass costs $146.25 and can be used on Toronto transit only. For commuters travelling to and from the city from any other transit system, monthly GTA passes are nonexistent but weekly GTA passes are available for $63. They can be used on Peel and York region transit, where many commuters reside, in addition to on the TTC. Condominiums are not ideal for renters but because of the supply, they are often the only option. Less than 2,500 rental specific buildings were built in the past decade. In comparison, 76,000 condos were developed in the same time period. To address growing concerns, in 2016 the city council approved the Open Door Affordable Housing Act. The City of Toronto committed to building 5,000 new affordable rental units and 2,000 new homes for purchasing. The act defines affordable as at or below the average housing costs of renting or owning a property according to the CMHC.
Legal Team Sebastian Szemplinski (905) 602-5100 Publishers Slavek Haluszka Matthew Dabrowski Published by 2BY4GTA and 2BY4 NEWSGTA, divisions of DoubleGen Corp. 2017 All Rights Reserved.2BY4GTA 1295 Eglinton Ave E, Unit 19, Mississauga, Ontario, L4W 3E6 info@2by4gta.ca |(416)628-6254 www.2by4gta.ca
EVERYTHING FOR CONSTRUCTORS AND HOMEOWNERS IN
GTA
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In the Trades, Things are Built to Last By Jag Michaels Being a tradesperson is not easy. The hours can be long, it can get physically gruelling, and it’s a challenge sometimes to find the right work-life balance. As tough as it can be, the satisfaction that comes from getting the job done is something to take pride in. What a tradesperson builds has an effect on a person’s life for a long time. If you are working on road maintenance and repair, let’s say, the work you put in on that day is going to provide a service to anyone who drives on it for months. It’s also going to be there the next time that maintenance comes around.
Let’s say it’s a condo development or it’s renovating a kitchen in a semi-detached home. The work that a tradesperson puts in serves the community. They leave behind a legacy that lays silent in the building materials for decades and even centuries. Think of the tradespeople who built up neighbourhoods like Liberty Village and the Distillery District in Toronto. Their work has lasted for years. Perhaps more importantly than that, the result has given people places to live, work, and play. Through the generations, these materials and designs are passed down. As parents pass these homes down to their children, there’s a lot that can be said for how a
tradesperson’s work can impact someone over the course of their life. Even going back to something like a childhood home. There were tradespeople who built that. As a tradesperson, you’re providing the community around you with a service and you’re developing a real skill that makes you valuable in the marketplace. As expertise is acquired, a tradesperson then has the opportunity to train apprentices, passing down the knowledge from generation to generation. Not only is what you are building going to last but to those who you pass this knowledge to, your philosophies and tricks of the trade will be transferred as well.
insurance ad
Blue collar workers form the backbone of Canada. They’ve built our roads, our homes, and our places of work. They’ve built buildings that have lasted for over a century and they’ve been providing safe places for families to enjoy each other’s company for decades. Be proud of being a tradesperson. The work you put in today is going to last for decades, in time and space, as well as in the memories of those who live in these spaces. No matter what trades category you are in, dealing with the hardships on the job is almost always worth the result. It’s tough work. It’s also honest work.
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Condo
Traffic Watch Current weather forecasts for the month of February are showing a range of temperatures from 5 to -13 celsius. While this means things are warming up, which is nice, this also means a high possibility of snow, or worse, freezing rain on your daily commute. So be sure to check your local weather before leaving in the morning, and plan accordingly. 84 Burnt Bark Drive The southbound lane will be closed due to Bell repairs until February 2. 37 Leacock Crescent The northbound lanes will be closed due to excavation for Bell repairs until February 2. 29 York Downs Drive Lanes closed eastbound and westbound for sewer and water servicing, two way
traffic to be maintained at all times. This will continue until February 3. 620 King Street West Lanes closed both eastbound and westbound due to water and sewer service until February 23. Eglinton Avenue West and Bathurst Street Due to drilling, one lane north, south and westbound will be closed, and two eastbound lanes will be closed until January 31 to July 8. 50 Yorkdale Road Access to Allen St. Northbound and Hwy 401 will be blocked due to construction of new ramp from February to September. Photo credit: Julie, Dave & Family, flickr.com
Women In Construction
Canadian Company trains
women for the trades Started on p.1
By Bahar Faizi Women Building Futures has been established for over a decade. What was the motivation behind developing Women Building Futures? WBF became registered as a non-profit society in 1998. It was a small group of women - social workers mostly - who set out to fulfill their shared dream of helping women achieve economic prosperity through trades training and mentorship.
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Since your organization began do you see more students joining the program? Absolutely. We have graduated over 1500 women from our programs since 1998 with most of the growth in the last three years. In 2017 we expect to graduate 304 graduates, and in 2018 this will grow to 408 graduates. Are graduates of the organizations now more likely to get jobs in their field as opposed to when your program began in 2008? Yes. We currently work with over 300 employers who hire our grads and that list
WHERE DO BUYERS TURN WHEN DETACHED HOMES BECOME TOO EXPENSIVE?
Condos! And here’s why: By Andrew Dabrowski Many people get scared off by maintenance fees, neighbours beyond the wall, elevators, rules and cramped spaces...not always the case. There is an abundance of variety as well as positives with respect to condo ownership. First of all, they are affordable (usually $400,000-$500,000 cheaper than detached homes). According to Toronto Real Estate Board stats for 2017, detached home prices averaged under $1 million and condos averaged slightly over $500,000. There is much less worry and responsibility involved. Maintenance fees cover most, if not all, expenses (yes, there are some all-inclusive condos that include your hydro, heating, water, cable bill, amenities and even insurance). There’s no mowing, shovelling, fixing furnaces or any extra external work. Condos can be very spacious, and you can find ones that have three, four, or even five bedrooms, and extend beyond 1000, 1200 and even 1400 square feet. Mind you, builders are economically motivated as well, and they build new condos much smaller, at 400 to 900 square feet, nowadays. However, condos built before the new millennium are often more spacious. People fear what they deem to be high maintenance fees, but the fees are not always as high as people imagine. For all-inclusive condos, you can reasonably expect fees to range from $700-$900/month depending on their size. Fees above $900 may still be
reasonable if the condo is very large or has great amenities. A typical homeowner may pay $100-$200 for hydro, $50-$100 for water, and $150-$300 for gas. Based on these estimates collected from homeowners, the range is usually $300-$600 monthly depending on utility usage. However, you need to add the following costs: hot water tank rental (approx $30-$80), cable TV ($50$100), any and all home repairs such as fixing and maintaining, or even renting a furnace (costs range from $100-$2000 depending on the issues), cleaning vents, eavestroughs, repairing the driveway, maintaining landscaping, fixing the roof, etc. Therefore, while maintenance fees may seem high at $800 a month or even $1000 per month, some homeowners pay significantly more while not having the following luxuries: concierge, elevators, superintendents/ maintenance workers, and managers, pools, exercise rooms, underground parking, and much more. Each building is different, has its own issues, and can sometimes fall into disrepair or can have major repairs which warrant a special assessment fee. This is why it is important to get the right real estate agent and real estate lawyer to review the status of a building and guide you towards a building that is financially healthy and suitable to your budget and lifestyle. Before you dismiss the idea of purchasing a condo, do your research or contact an agent like me, to inform you of the pros and cons of the various types of ownership.
is growing exponentially. In fact, 92% of our grads find work in their field – this number has been consistent for several years. Do your students/graduates gravitate towards jobs in particular subareas of construction or do they feel that all options are all equally inclusive? Our grads feel the options are endless and we see women going into all areas of construction and maintenance from sheet metal, electrical, plumbing, welding, millwrights and heavy equipment operating. To name just a few. Women Building Futures is the first organization of its kind in Canada. What do you think women throughout Canada can do to establish similar programs in other provinces? WBF is striving to be the leader in trades training for women across Canada. We’ve just opened an office in Fort McMurray and are looking into moving into Calgary, BC and Ontario in the near future. For women interested in establishing programs like ours they should contact us, we’d be happy to talk to them about this. Why do you think people outside of your organization have rarely considered the idea that women can make great construction or trades workers? Often we find that for women in particular, a career in the trades is outside of their frame of reference, they don’t know that this is a viable career option for them, and many do not even know what working in the trades really is. We help them to make an informed decision about the careers that are available to them through career coaching and mentorship Are there any particular pros and cons that apply more to females in the field? Not really. It’s about being a good, safe worker first. Women are capable and willing to work in this field if that is their career path. According to some estimates, there will be about a million positions to fill in construction by 2018, and yet many
people feel it is difficult to find work in today’s job market. Women in particular may have never realized the potential that can be found in construction. What do you think people should know about the benefits of working in trades? Working in the trades affords women and men a lifestyle that enables them to be economically prosperous and provide a good life for their families. There is tremendous job satisfaction working in the trades and seeing the results of their labour. There is also a great opportunity for career pathing from apprenticeship to journeyman, to supervisor, foreman and owners. What are the latest programs added to your organization? We’ve recently introduced our first apprenticeship to journeyman program called Pathway to Apprenticeship: Heavy Equipment Technician. We plan to offer more Pathway to Apprenticeship trade specific programs in the future with our industry partners. This program is the first of its kind for WBF. Wherein the women are apprenticed with our industry partners and do their work experience between technical training with our partners through a 4 year rotating apprenticeship. Throughout your experience, Women Building Futures has had the capacity to change lives. What is the most drastic improvement you’ve seen in a student’s lifestyle after they graduated from the program? That’s a tough one, we see every day how women’s lives are changed along with their families. The best quote that says it all, really is this one: “We’ve seen many times how women succeeding in this industry have had a positive effect on the lives of their families and future generations.” Mark Little, Executive Vice President, Oil Sands & In Situ, Suncor Energy, Fort McMurray, Alberta
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News
The ‘Great Generation Change’; as Construction sees more Retirees, replacements are hard to find By Jag Michaels Canada’s construction industry edges towards the future, unclear how it will replace the growing number of workers on the verge of retirement. Despite the many employment opportunities in construction, particularly in city centres, young people seem reticent to take part. As we head into the next decade, more than 250,000 Canadian construction workers are planning their exit from the industry. This is going to open up jobs at every level. To maintain Canada’s strong growth, these are positions that are going to need to be filled.
What Canada and provinces, such as Ontario, do today to attract new contractors is going to play a big role in defining how the construction industry is shaped for the next few decades. Canada’s total construction industry employment is currently split among four key categories. According to BuildForce Canada, the vast majority of employment is in residential construction (48 percent), followed by engineering (23 percent), industrial and commercial (18 percent), and non-residential maintenance (11 percent). There are expected to be slight declines in employment under residential construction
which is expected to fall 7 percent whereas non-residential maintenance and other categories are expected to rise, potentially offsetting these losses. As one workforce inches further towards getting out of the industry, the difficulties today in attracting new workers are only expected to get worse. For provinces such as Ontario, the industry is being hit on both sides. In ‘supply’, there will be a reduction in employment and in ‘demand’, the need for growth and construction is only increasing. The province is currently overrun with development, particularly in the areas surrounding and/or
Ontario’s New Construction and Building Codes The new Construction Act has initiated a number of regulatory changes, including, a) extending the timelines to file liens and start court actions to 150 days, providing additional time for contractors and subcontractors to resolve disputes out of court; b) requiring holdback funds to be paid immediately following the passing of the deadline to file a liens, ensuring contractors and subcontractors are paid on time; c) requiring surety bonding on public sector projects above a certain amount, thereby protecting subcontractors and workers if their contractor files for bankruptcy; and d) referring construction lien claims under $25,000 to small claims court. By Jag Michaels The government of Ontario has never been afraid of making some very bold moves. The most recent has been the rise of the minimum wage in Ontario to $14/hour, scheduled for another rise January 1, 2019, this time to $15/hour. As the minimum wage debate has created so much fuss among business owners, it has taken attention away from a number of major regulatory changes that have happened in the last few months
within the Ontario construction industry. To begin with, there is Ontario’s new Construction Act which is intended to improve the existing Construction Lien Act. Since 1983 the Construction Lien Act had been the guiding document on how payments were issued throughout a construction project. Late payments have long been an issue in construction. According to a report published by the Ontario government, the average collection period in construction increased
to 71 days between 2002 and 2013. The new Construction Act seeks to guide more efficient payment processing overall. The passage of the new Construction Act ensures that payment promptness is upheld as a high priority and that dispute resolution through adjudication plays a more fundamental role in ongoing industry discussions – both of which are huge positives for any tradesperson working in construction. The Construction Act is not the only legislation
connected by rail to Toronto. In addition to ongoing infrastructure and transportation/ transit projects, nuclear refurbishment and the building of alternative fuel utilities also require employment to step it up. The provincial construction industry is expanding at a rate where the domestic workforce can no longer keep up and many searching for work simply aren’t interested. Despite the bleak outlook across Canada as a whole, Ontario is expected to maintain record employment levels, primarily due to the continued migration of non-Canadians and Canadians alike to the province. Due to high wages and much opportunity for growth, workers are coming to Ontario seeking a better life. Due to the many benefits provided by the province, the Ontario construction industry might end up being sustained through the record number of retirements ongoing. That said, there will still be challenges. Non-residential construction is expected to overtake residential construction as the primary source of construction growth in Ontario by 2025, according to BuildForce Canada, and that’s going to require more qualified entrants. By 2020, when Canada’s construction market is expected to rise to become the fifth largest in the world, estimates from the Canadian Construction Association (CAA) suggest we will need up to 320,000 more workers country-wide. In Ontario, some say the demand may end up being even higher. As far as problems go, this is far from the worst one to have. With demand, there comes more opportunity and higher wages alongside the chance to get involved in building one’s own community. For any workers under thirty seeking a good paying job and the opportunity to move up into high-responsibility, high-wage positions in the coming years, the Ontario construction industry comes as a strong recommendation.
that has been passed affecting the provincial construction industry in the last few months. This past November, Ontario passed Bill 148 which clarifies the existing Employment Standards Act, 2000 and Labour Relations Act, 1995. With regards to construction, Bill 148 states that any employee receiving 0.8% or more of their hourly pay in personal emergency leave will no longer be eligible to paid leave days within the same time period. Also, Bill 148 states holiday pay will not be provided to construction employees if their period of employment has been less than five years and if they receive 7.7% or more of their wages for vacation or holiday already, or if the employee’s period of employment is longer than 5 years and they receive 9.7% or more of their wages for vacation or holiday pay. Beyond this, in late December, Ontario increased the penalty for violations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Prior to these changes, the fine for any corporation found guilty of violating the OHSA, for decades, had been a maximum of $500,000, and for individuals or unincorporated businesses, a maximum of $25,000. As of December 14, 2017, the fine for corporations has increased to $1.5 million and, for individuals or unincorporated businesses, to $100,000. The debate on what impact these regulatory changes have for tradespersons entering the provincial construction industry continues. Though some debate can be had, most argue that these sweeping changes will make a positive difference. From the standpoint of the worker, any time that legislation can assist in getting payment distributed on time, increase safety in the workplace, and help to improve project efficiencies, this is never a bad thing.
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The Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital By Mike Kustra The Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, or OTMH, is one of the largest infrastructure projects recently built in Ontario. At 1.6M sq.ft., and sitting on a 50-acre site, the total contract value is approximately $2.7 Billion (2011 dollars). OTMH has a 457-bed capacity. Through thoughtful planning and strategic use of “Soft Spaces”, the Hospital floor plans are flexible providing the capability for future growth, to a staggering 602 beds. OTMH boasts three MRIs, two CTs, and a large six-storey parking garage with a 500kW solar array. There is also a swimming pool, a helipad, and an entire eighth floor of empty shell space to accommodate future growth and expansion. The building consists of three main sections: • a five-storey building for complex continuing care and rehabilitation, • a 10-storey inpatient tower, and • a four-storey therapeutic/diagnostic facility. The contract of managing the hospital from design through to operation is fairly unique among traditional organizational structures for hospitals. As a PublicPrivate Partnership (PPP/P3), the project is delivered through the private sector, where project teams design, build, finance, and maintain (DBFM) OTMH over a 30-year contractual term. The advantage of this system is that the private sector manages the complex building and the associated risks. Their expertise and qualified experience of managing the facility effectively allows the public sector to focus on delivery of healthcare services with less worry. This 30-year contract was awarded to Hospital Infrastructure Partners, a joint-venture comprising of EllisDon Corporation and Carillion Canada Inc. Planning for OTMH took over a decade. EllisDon and Carillion worked together with Parkin Architect Ltd. and Adamson Associates Architects, to develop a design that was efficient, boasting a healthy environment, and using integrated
technologies to deliver an exemplary patient experience. The building provides a warm calming feel while providing places to gather and reflect for visitors and patients. Construction of OTMH began in summer 2011, with the official opening date arriving four years later. At peak of Construction, more than 1,100 workers were on site daily, making up the 100+ different trade suppliers and subcontractors from across North America and even Europe. Workers installed: • 30,000 receptacles • 7,441 windows • 650 toilets
• 2,210 sinks • 28,000 light fixtures • 5,180 kilometres of wire Since its opening in December 2015, EllisDon and Carillion are now in the “Maintain” portion of the DBFM Public-Private Partnership contract. A team of over 30 staff work together behind the scenes to maintain safe and effective operation of the building 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. This Facility Management portion of the contract includes management of the following deliverables: • Hard Facilities Management (Lighting, Plumbing, Fire Safety, HVAC, Building
Maintenance etc.) • Roads & Grounds • Retail Property Management • Help Desk Services • Parking Management • Utilities Management • Sustainability Management Front-line staff include various trades such as plumbers, electricians, locksmiths, steamfitters, technicians, and many more, who perform planned preventative maintenance and reactive maintenance tasks. Building engineers look after the many boilers, fridges, elevators, air handling units, and other complex systems, that require a hospital to function effectively. With Infrastructure Ontario and Halton Healthcare Services as the clientele, EllisDon and Carillion management teams work every day to ensure the building continues safe, resilient, and spirited operation. These large infrastructure projects are complex systems. They are challenging projects, but show how through thoughtful planning and proper execution, public and private sectors can work together to deliver an extraordinary building such as Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital. OTMH is located at 3001 Hospital Gate, Oakville, ON L6M 0L8, on the corner of Dundas Street West and Third Line.
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Job focus
High tech, higher cost:
are these construction innovations worth it in 2017? Jag Michaels Advancements in construction technologies, including Building Information Modeling (BIM) and 3D printing, are not affordable for many construction firms across Canada. This has left the development of tech in construction at a momentary standstill. Despite the growing need to integrate these technologies which could provide improvements in cost and efficiency, the upfront financial commitment has made it difficult for construction firms across Toronto to buy in. Traditionally, the construction industry has been slow to adopt new tech. Many
workers are wary of the job losses tech could instigate. To assist modernizing processes and cutting costs, however, companies are being forced to examine the possibility of incorporating new tech. Smaller firms with under 100 people may benefit from the reduction in time and cost these technologies bring. Subsequently, these are the same firms where high costs are preventing implementation. Investment in construction tech is an upfront expense but the savings it can provide in the long run are notable. New technology Building Information Models provide a digital
representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a project, site, or facility. BIM tech can have a significant role to play throughout stages of pre-construction, construction, turnover, and closeout. BIM tech could potentially reduce cost, increase productivity, reduce job site errors, and improve quality. This software is built with the use of a 3D architectural design model. This provides a multitude of opportunities for collaborators and stakeholders to evaluate practical choices without permanently affecting the job site. Perhaps more so than any other tech related to construction, 3D printing is shaking up the
Concrete Canvas: a New Innovation By Jag Michaels Throughout the years, there has not really been that much innovation in concrete. Save the invention of the concrete mixer in 1916 and some modern tools, not a lot has changed since the Roman Empire built roads through Europe. For the most part, concrete has always been concrete and that’s that. This past year, there’s been growing interest in something new in concrete known as ‘concrete canvas’. If it’s to be believed, it may have the potential to really switch up how concrete is delivered and worked on. Concrete canvas uses a new type of innovative material technology to build a synthetic concrete. Coming as ‘concreteon-a-roll,’ this new innovative concrete has already won numerous awards primarily based on its innovative manufacturing tech and for its excellence in design. The material itself is a combination of concrete and fabric. Flexible and easily manipulated, it can be made into various forms. When hydrated, concrete canvas then hardens, creating a highly durable, fireresistant layer of what one would otherwise call concrete. Through a single application of concrete canvas, a shelter can be provided within 24 hours. It only requires two people who don’t even need any specialized training. Perhaps
the most impressive part of it all is that concrete canvas can be installed up to 10 times faster than conventional concrete and saves up to 95 per cent in material savings. This translates to cost savings of up to 60 per cent! This also means that concrete can be installed in more hard-to-reach places because it does not require a large cement mixer. Concrete canvas is an innovation currently
being sold from British Columbia’s own Nuna Innovations. The largest installation of concrete canvas so far was completed at a Vancouver Island zinc and copper mine. There, 11,125 m² of concrete canvas was laid into a 735 water diversion channel. The product has also been deployed in part of Alberta’s irrigation system at the St. Mary River Irrigation district as a pilot project.
industry. Increasingly deployed on job sites, 3D printing technology is being adopted by various companies alongside robot design, architecture, and engineering. Construction projects the size of a small treehouse have already been successfully practiced. This begs the question: if it’s possible to build an entire treehouse from 3D printing, might it be possible to build an entire home from it? If it can, that might revolutionize the entire industry. For obvious reasons, many who work in the industry feel uneasy at the prospect. Are we on the Verge of another Industrial Revolution? Art-construction projects around the world have already highlighted the power of 3D printing, including the ability to print concrete homes in China, develop a contoured craft building in California, and a fully functioning office in Dubai. 3D printing and similar technology may be able to provide affordable housing in regions of the developing world where cost is king. Imagine being able to replace slums and makeshift homes with 3D-printed designs! Though this is still very much in proof of concept stage, in time, these technologies could add a lot of value to the construction industry. Cost is not the only reason for Prevention These technologies face a number of hurdles. The first, yes, is cost. The second is regulation. Standards for building materials are well established in Canada and around the world. It may take some time to adapt the regulatory environment to accommodate this new tech. With no significant track record of 3D printed construction materials, regulation seems unlikely. Third, there are safety concerns. Whether 3D printed construction beyond proof of concept is able to hold together as a sustainable design is uncertain. Needless to say, quality still remains a major concern among most. What is your Opinion on New Tech in Construction Please feel encouraged to let us know your opinion on tech advancements in the construction industry below!
The materials that concrete canvas is made up of are three-dimensional fibre matrices made from a specially formulated dry concrete mix. When it is set, the fibres reinforce the concrete, which provides a safe plastic failure mode and eliminates crack propagation. The strength of concrete canvas means that it has the potential to be applied in slope protection, bund lining, and ditch lining. Within the construction and erosion control industries, the concrete canvas is a safetycertified and quality-tested innovation that, if implemented, could be a huge cost-saver.
“Concrete Canvas CC5 Roll Splitting,” Misanthropic One, CC
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Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the Workplace Should you invest in an AED for your workplace? Consider how long it would take a paramedic to arrive to your address and get to an employee who is in the most distant area of your facility. How many minutes have elapsed? Automated External Defibrillation is most effective if applied to the casualty within the first ten minutes. AEDs have become simple and economical. Most AEDs are lightweight, compact, easy to use and include visual and voice prompts which guide the user through the operation of the machine. AEDs have dropped considerably in price. At one time a unit may have cost as much as $10,000, but today they are much closer to $1,000. A small investment with a potentially very large return.
By Dianne Rende . An employee is suffering cardiac arrest and the ambulance is on its way. But the clock is ticking and you know that a maximum of 10 valuable minutes could mean the difference between life and death. A first aid course held at your company included Automated External Defibrillation (AED) training and fortunately, you recognized that having a defibrillator on site just might save a life. That training and the simplicity of the unit is now paying off, allowing you to remain calm and able to deal with a difficult situation until the paramedics arrive and take over. Is your workplace prepared for such an event?
Cardiac arrests are likely to happen with increasing frequency due to Ontario’s aging workforce population. The outcome can depend on the workplace’s investment in their health and safety program. As soon as a person hits the floor, the clock starts. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, every minute that passes without
medical assistance reduces an individual’s chances of survival by 10 per cent. Early administration of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillation (AED) can drastically increase their chance of surviving until they reach the hospital. In almost every instance of collapse an individual’s survival is in the hands of surrounding bystanders.
The Ontario government passed the Chase McEachern Act in 2007 which protects people from liability if they assist someone using a defibrillator in good faith. With this protection in place, public access defibrillation programs have expanded. It’s a good time to check if employee first aid & CPR training is up-to-date and consider adding an AED to the health and safety budget.
Dianne Rende is the Executive Director of St. John Ambulance, Peel Dufferin Branch. As Canada’s leading authority in first aid, St. John Ambulance is dedicated to improving health and safety at work, at home and at play. Dianne can be reached by email at dianne.rende@on.sja.ca or for more information visit www.sja.ca. A Ministry of Health Fact Sheet on Liability Protection for People Using Defibrillators can be found online at: http://health.gov.on.ca/en/common/ legislation/hsib/hsib_defib_fs_01_20070605.pdf
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The Benefits of Working
wit h Yo u r Ha n d s
By Jag Michaels Weighing the different types of jobs one can apply for, blue-collar employment provides some of the most satisfying work out there. Skilled trades may not be as trendy as white collar work, especially in a city like Toronto, but they form the backbone of the province’s workforce. Working with your hands offers some real advantages worth considering if you don’t already know where you fit within the Ontario workforce.
There’s a real satisfaction in it The top factor that influences job satisfaction is whether a job makes use of your skills and abilities. Feeling happy and fulfilled at work is incredibly important. You get to take pride in what you build and the services you provide. You get to see the fruits of your labour surrounding you. Next time you see a friend or relative who works in the trades, ask to see their ‘before and after’ pictures. I can guarantee they have them saved, and take great pride in
them. There’s a real sense of pride in that for most people and that something that nobody can take away. You’re building up the city, and you can say to your children, future or present, “I helped build that” as you pass by. Trade School is Less Expensive and you Get your Certification Faster It is a lot more feasible to get started in skilled trades than it is to enter the white collar market. The majority of training programs last as long as six months to two years. They also cost significantly less than a bachelor’s degree. You can save tens of thousands of dollars by choosing to work with your hands over going to university for four years to get a degree in something you may never use. Within a couple years, as a tradesperson, you will already be a graduate and earning money for yourself. That’s not to mention the work you can get simply with a high school diploma, whether it’s long-term or just while you study. The pay is, dare we say it, great! Upon graduation, most tradespeople can expect to find a job within a matter of weeks in Ontario. Coming with that job is quality pay, ranging anywhere from $14/ hour to $34/hour or higher, depending on the job. Though you can expect to fall on the low end of that spectrum as a new graduate, it’s still more than you’d be making flipping burgers. Over the course of a multi-decade career, you can make a fair chunk of change for yourself. You’re never stationary One of the best things about having a job where you work with your hands is that you’re constantly moving around. This is true in the sense that you’re physically moving and keeping fit, but you’re also moving from location to location. A lot is
Advice for trades workers and their vehicle woes By Mery Milic Trades workers engage in some of the most difficult activities at work, from roofing and drywall installation to general labour. Such a responsible and difficult job requires utmost expertise and organization. Working in the trades also means you’ll be working at different locations from time to time, and you’re going to need a means of transportation. It is important to start by pointing out
that public transport is never an option for trades workers when commuting to work. It is simply inconvenient. You’d have to take up an extra seat with all your equipment. If you need to stand, you run the risk of accidentally hitting someone with a hammer or wrench jutting out of your bag. You’ll be covered in dust or dirt, or any other sort of unpleasant substance. That’s not to mention that you probably don’t smell too good after sweating all day. So
do yourself and those around you a favour and avoid public transit. Avoiding public transit doesn’t mean you need to avoid being ecological or economical, however. Carpooling is always an option. That just means that no matter what, someone on your team needs a vehicle, so let’s look at vehicles. If you’re doing something very specialized which uses few tools, like roofing, it’s smart to stick to a regular car or hatchback.
Jobs
said about how physical work can wear down your body, but in comparison to sitting down at a chair all day, the constant exercise is actually good. And rather than sitting in the same fluorescent, white walled cube every day, you get to meet new people and see new buildings constantly. Perhaps you’ll even get bored of the city. No worries, a lot of trades are relatively universal so you can move around from place to place. There are so Many Jobs out There In a place like Toronto, there are not enough construction workers to fill the jobs the City needs. There are regularly openings looking for workers on infrastructure projects and this is unlikely to change anytime soon. Not only are there openings in terms of on-the-go construction projects but also, thousands of Ontario tradespeople will be retiring in the next decade. Those positions need to be filled. By educating yourself on a trade today, you may have the opportunity to rise up the ranks a few years down the line. Job Security The trades are not jobs that can be outsourced. There will always be a need for mechanics, electricians, plumbers, welders, and all types of trades workers. There’s job security in that. Because of the universality of your skills, again, you always have the promise of job opportunities somewhere in the world. It’s something you can build a career on. Without tradespeople, our lives and the infrastructure around us would literally crumble. Good pay, job security, job opportunities, and the ability to feel good about what you’re doing. Any young person reading this who may be considering a career in the trades, we can confidently say that it’s more than worth it!
Quality and price can be left up to your tastes because you can also use this as your regular vehicle. However, we suggest skipping on the leather chairs and fancy interior because it’s going to get dirty. For bigger jobs that use more tools, like carpentry, electrical or plumbing, there are plenty of options for a proper vehicle. SUVs and pickup trucks are decent options. The beds of pickups are always nice because you can stick materials in there. You could also get a trailer for a bigger vehicle, but parking will likely be an issue for you at some point, especially if you’re doing residential downtown. If you’re looking for the most costeffective vehicle solution, we recommend choosing a cargo van. Cargo vans are durable and spacious. The most enticing thing about a cargo van is the organization it allows for you and your tools, and you can typically stick materials right inside. It’s hard to overstate the importance of proper organization when it comes to doing the job right and making your life easier. The two recommended cargo van models are the Ford Transit and Nissan NV. The Ford Transit goes for the price of $30,000, whereas the Nissan NV is a bit cheaper at $26,000. Either way, both vans offer the right features and conditions for different trades workers. Even though these are very cost-effective vehicle solutions, trades workers should be wary of the high cost of neglecting maintenance. Frequent malfunctions caused by poor maintenance call for costly repairs, which is something that can be avoided by simply keeping the vehicle well-maintained. Every trade worker should be able to diagnose engine issues, or at least have a friend who can.
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Know your rights when it comes to
animals
in the GTA By David Goldberg The Greater Toronto Area is home to nearly six and a half million people and among the vast metropolitan landscapes that stretch along the coast of Lake Ontario, live dozens of species of wild animals: Deer, raccoons, muskrats, squirrels, and chipmunks just to name a few. Some of them avoid all human contact if possible while others have made their home in the cities where they are not always welcome. For many, a disturbance outside their home in the middle of the night means one thing; raccoons. These masked bandits are notorious for causing homeowners headaches. They topple over garbage cans and dig up vegetable gardens. Don’t be surprised if you find your freshly laid sod unfurled. That likely means the raccoons have found a population of grubs to feast on. So what can be done? In Ontario, it’s illegal to kill animals or trap them in a way that may cause them harm. You could be fined up to $5,000 or even face criminal
charges. The city of Toronto advises residents to try and drive the intruders away by sprinkling soap flakes on your lawn, spreading diluted Tabasco sauce over fruits and vegetables, or installing bright lights over the area where the raccoons are creating a problem. Finally, make sure that your garbage and compost bins are tightly locked or stored somewhere that animals can’t access. If the raccoons are very persistent or have decided to stay long-term under your deck, you may need to consider hiring a professional to trap it. But as experts warn, this may be just a temporary solution. The only way to truly solve your raccoon problem is to eliminate what’s attracting
Chickens To Take Roost In Toronto
By Sarah McGoldrick Chickens will soon be making an appearance in Toronto backyards. Over the past century, urban sprawl led to a decline and eventual ban of owning backyard chickens within city limits.
them to your property in the first place such as open chimneys, holes in your roof, or an endless buffet of discarded food waste. Raccoons are one thing but sometimes you may find yourself face-to-face with a much larger animal. It’s estimated that there as many as 400,000 white-tailed deer living in the province. So let’s say that one day you’re driving down the road and you come across one of the animals that have unfortunately been struck and killed by another vehicle. Can you throw it in the back of your truck and take it home? According to Ontario law, yes. You must register it, however. Then you’re free to stuff it, eat it, whatever you like. The only
way you don’t have to register the animal is if you’re a licensed hunter/trapper and you lawfully killed it, someone else lawfully killed it and gave it to you as a gift, or if it was lawfully possessed it before death; i.e., the animal was owned by a zoo. Admittedly, that’s a fairly extreme scenario for most people living in the GTA. Most people deal with the smaller critters who make a mess in your backyard or a nest in your attic. In which case always remember that you should never hurt these animals. Use non-violent methods to scare them away and remove what is luring the creatures there in the first place. If all else fails, call a professional to humanely trap and relocate the animal in question.
Recent calls for more locally sourced produce and the desire to go back to more simple agriculture practices have forced the city to re-examine the issue. In the spring of 2018 residents in Ward 5 (EtobicokeLakeshore), Ward 13 (Parkdale-High Park), Ward 21 (St. Paul’s), and Ward 32 (BeachesEast York) will be allowed to own up to four hens under a pilot project to reintroduce backyard chicken ownership. “We know that backyard chickens are allowed in other municipalities across Ontario, says Justin DiCiano, Councillor for Ward 5 (Etobicoke-Lakeshore). He said the number of complaints by residents in areas where chickens are allowed still remains far below that of other domestic animals. He noted in Niagara Falls where chickens are allowed there are 500 dog complaints annually versus just 10 for chickens. The City of Toronto has maintained an extensive list of animals that are banned within city limits under the City of Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 349 including Canidae (coyotes, fox, wolves - with the exception of dogs), elephants, bears, large cats (cougars, tigers etc) and Galliformes including pheasants, grouse, guinea fowl, turkeys and chickens. Only chickens have been given provision for backyard farming. Roosters will remain prohibited. The other species of Galliformes also remain on the banned list. This change only allows for personal residential ownership and bans commercial farming within residential areas. The city is aware of the concerns about smell and noise. DiCiano says there are probably more than 1,000 households in Toronto
who own backyard chickens and the city receives very few complaints. “The vast majority of neighbours don’t know they have chickens as neighbours. It really is a different reality and no worse than having a pet,” said DiCiano. DiCiano noted the city is already used to dealing with chickens that have escaped from owners or have been abandoned. The city is instructed to pick them up and they are sent to farmers who take them into their care. He said the change to the by-law will allow for proper regulation of owners as well as ensure that backyard chickens are being treated properly. He adds restaurants and other food-related business will not be permitted ownership. “We are going to require people to register, but this is largely a self-governing set of rules,” he said. Additionally, chickens will have to be tested for salmonella and proper living conditions will have to be provided. DiCiano believes the pilot project will lead to communities embracing the idea of chicken ownership. He doesn’t expect many people will adopt the practice who are not fully committed to raising them and the social ideals. Backyard chickens enjoy a healthier living environment versus large scale commercial farms where chickens are often kept in battery cages. He noted setting up a chicken coop is a timeconsuming process and most people who do so are experienced and understand the responsibilities involved. “Most of those who do raise chickens are active in urban farming,” he said.
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alternative to hotels, due to the affordability of the listings. Moreover, the greatest appeal of Airbnb accommodations is their ability to make renters feel like locals, which cannot be replicated by staying at a hotel. As a host, you can make more from Airbnbing your place than renting it, while it will likely require more labour on your part. If you’ve got time between tenants, or just want to try something new, it’s worth a shot. Even if you don’t own your place, you can partake in Airbnb. Just make sure to receive your landlord’s consent first.
Are you intrigued yet? If you are interested in listing your home on Airbnb, just follow the simple steps below. First and foremost, you need to register with the Airbnb website and make a personal profile. Although it seems obvious, you must ensure that your profile is complete and detailed. Clients are more likely to reach out to hosts that include more personal information rather than less, as this makes clients feel more at ease. You should also ensure that you appear accessible and friendly in your personal profile, as this will
make you stand out from other listings. Once your profile is up and running, you can include information about your listing. What sort of “ambience” does your place give off? What kind of amenities does your building have? Where are the closest tourist attractions? Again, like the personal profile, the more information you include about your place, the better. A good Airbnber makes the prospective clients feel right at home just from their listing. Another key thing to keep in mind when describing your place is that you should touch on the downfalls of your home in a constructive way. It does not mean that you need to lie about your home, but rather, it means that you should use careful wording. Is your home small? Perhaps you can refer to it as “cozy.” Are your neighbours loud? Maybe you can call the building “eclectic and lively.” Do not fear, there will undoubtedly be clients who are interested in exactly what your place has to offer. Another personal touch that will help make you stand out from other listings is the inclusion of various personalized perks. If you have the means to include additional services or products for your guests, you will surely stand out. For instance, consider offering your guests a hot breakfast, a map of nearby tourist attractions, a drive-by tour, various local snacks or drinks for consumption, or perhaps a list of your favourite places to visit. A good Airbnber goes the extra mile in ensuring that their guests are satisfied and will give their place a positive rating. Voila! You now have all of the key information necessary to be an awesome host on Airbnb. Don’t spend all of that extra money in one place!
The idea is quite simple - to begin with, you will need two floral hoop rings, which you can purchase at any arts and crafts supply store for a few dollars. They are basically just round wired hoops that are the basis for wreaths. You can also use green hula hoops if you don’t find them. One should be larger, and a smaller one will be attached with fishing line to hang about 40 inches above it. Cover the wires or hula hoops entirely with foliage using green floral tape or wires then hang the chandelier. You can use a temporary hook and more fishing lines and tape to hang the chandelier. Once it’s hanging add as many of your
favourite flowers and greenery to the larger ring which can hang right above a dinner table or seating area as a centrepiece. Use long-lasting flowers so that they remain fresh longer and spirits with water before use. The site proflowers.com recommends using, “Pink Hyacinths, Carnations, Amaranthus, Hydrangeas, Baby’s Breath. Craspedia, Peonies, Dahlia Buds,” for their long-lasting freshness. They also recommend spraying the flowers lightly with water before guests arrive and keeping the arrangements away too much sunlight. While you’re placing flowers on to the
wreath, often take a moment to take a few steps back and view the chandelier. This way you can notice any imperfections in the flower placements. Try to space the flowers the same distance apart from one another. To enhance the aesthetic appeal, choose floral colours and sizes that go well together and match the theme and location of the event. This breathtaking and photogenic DIY takes less than two hours to make. While it won’t last any longer than the flowers do, it’s worth the effort as it brings the ambience and beauty of nature into any event.
Airbnb: Easy as 1, 2, 3
By Carina Simniceanu Are you looking to make some extra money with your property? Although it sounds too good to be true, it is possible! Listing your home on Airbnb is a great way to make some extra money without too much effort. For those of you that are not familiar with Airbnb, it is an online marketplace for those seeking vacation lodgings in the form of a home, an apartment, a room, or even a bed. Airbnb features listings from all over the world and offers a great
Flower Chandelier: A DIY That Stems From Nature By: Bahar Faizi Creating your own decor from scratch is a hands-on way to add a personal touch to your home that stems from your own labour of love. A colourful way to do this is through making a flower chandelier for an upcoming special occasion. This lively, floral DIY is simple to make and stunning to look at. A flower chandelier only uses a few materials, it isn’t time-consuming and it requires few tools. Best of all, it incorporates components that blossom from nature. It’s perfect for special events you may be hosting like dinner parties or birthdays. An added bonus is it will add a natural aroma and fresh scent. You Will Need: • 2 Floral Hoops • Scissors • Floral Tape • Bouquets of your favourite flowers • Foliage • Fishing Wire • Hook (to attach chandelier)
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Being a Good Landlord: Happy Tenant, Happy Life By Carina Simniceanu Being a good landlord is the most crucial part of renting out a place. Maintaining an amicable and respectful relationship with your tenant will ensure that you keep attracting reliable and responsible tenants over the long-term. It is important to view the tenant as a customer and the rent property as a service. As a result, your goal as a landlord must be to provide the best possible service in order to have returning happy customers. Although being a good landlord sounds
great, you may be wondering to yourself what exactly constitutes “good.” The following four techniques will help you become the best landlord possible. Although the first principle is obvious, it is by far the most important one. Indeed, a good landlord must listen to their tenants, particularly when tenants bring concerns forward. Even if the tenant is upset or unhappy as they raise certain issues, it is important to make them feel respected and heard. In turn, this will ensure that issues get resolved faster and that you appear to
be a competent and professional landlord. In addition to effective listening, a good landlord must also deal with issues in a timely manner. It is understandable that some issues may take longer to resolve. However, day-to-day concerns should be addressed as fast as possible in order not to disrupt the tenant’s life. Keep in mind that a call or an email from a tenant should be viewed as a business communication and should be handled accordingly. You would be prompt in replying when a sale of a good or service is involved and therefore, you should reply to the tenant in the same manner as you would to your customer. Another key skill that a good landlord must have is to be organized. A good landlord keeps records of all contracts and related documentation in both original and digital form so that they can be easily referred to when required. Another helpful organization trick is to create a separate
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email folder to file all communication with the tenant. A separate folder makes it easier to locate relevant emails when necessary, but it also helps keep track of potential ongoing issues. The final tip for being a good landlord is very important, albeit not obvious. A good landlord must remember that their tenant is not their friend. Although you may hit it off with your tenant and enjoy conversing with them or spending time with them, you must draw a line and ensure that the relationship remains professional. Maintaining a business relationship with your tenant will ensure that you are able to collect past due bills, address damages or potentially evict them if necessary. By following the above tips and tricks, you are on your way to becoming a great landlord, and great landlords tend to attract the best kind of tenants.
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2BY4 Girl
DANA “plumber� model Each issue we will be featuring a photo from our photo shoots courtesy of Anita Surma. The compete gallery for each 2BY4 Girl will be featured across our social media platforms and on our website in the near future, www.2by4gta.ca 2BY4 Girls consist of participants directly or indirectly involved in construction and trades, or who have close ties with the industry. DISCLAIMER: 2BY4 Girls are artistic and model type photographs meant for the appreciation and enjoyment of the readers and/or viewers. These photographs should neither be taken as instruction for completion of specific task or trades, nor the proper use of tools and equipment.
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Hobbies and Leisure
Cleaning and preparing the fish you’ve caught By Mery Milic Catching a fish is one task, but cooking one is completely different. Preparing and cooking fish you catch can be daunting to some who were never shown how to do it properly. It’s actually pretty easy and satisfying, so give it a shot. Once you catch the fish, make sure to keep it in ice water, preferably a cooler, to ensure good quality and proper taste. Before you begin cleaning it, make sure you have all the necessary equipment and a clean, flat surface to work on. You’ll want a fillet knife, a scaling tool, a container for waste content, a water source for rinsing the fish and ziplock bags for storing the fish afterwards. Start by scaling the fish. If you don’t have a scaling tool, you can use a dull knife or even a spoon. Hold its head and use a scaling tool to make short motions moving from the tail towards the head. Then get the other side of the fish, as well as around the fins and up to the gills. Rinse the fish with water afterwards. Your fish might have a thick layer of skin
that needs to be removed. Make a cut behind the head of the fish and along the belly fins. Hold the fish by its head with one hand and use your other hand to pull the skin towards the tail and completely remove it. Make sure to rinse the fish again after.. Cleaning the gut of the fish is what most people consider the worst part of the process. It’s a little gross, but it isn’t difficult. Make a cut near the tail of the fish and slide it all the way to the base of the gills. Once you open the abdomen, grab the entrails and remove them. Some species of fish have a darkened inner membrane that can ruin the flavour so be sure to remove that. You can remove the head as well, although it is not necessary. After you’ve cleaned out the insides of the fish, rinse it once more. Now that your fish is clean, you can prepare it for cooking by filleting it or making a fish steak. The simple difference between these two styles is that the fillet removes the bone (necessary for battered dishes), and the steak does not. Cooking the fish with the bone will result in a more flavourful dish.
To fillet a fish, place it on its side on a clean surface and hold it by the head. Make a cut from the pectoral fin to the backbone but don’t cut through it. Slowly move down to the tail and once you’ve cut it all the way, turn the scale side down and put the knife between the flesh and the skin. Make a firm motion to remove the meat and do the same to the other side of the fish. Once done, rinse it with water. Steaking, on the other hand, is a great
alternative to filleting, especially when preparing salmon. This technique requires cutting along the entire fish, creating thick steak pieces of a half to two inches of thickness. Trim the excess fat or bones, if there are any, without removing the backbone of the fish. Once the fish is ready for further cooking, you can focus on preparing delicious dishes, such as deep-fried crappie, bluegill fillets or Parmesan perch!
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We want to hear your feedback. If you send us photos from your job site, projects you’ve worked on, funny work stories or helpful advice from your trade, we will feature staff picks in our newspaper and on our website. The funniest stories can be turned into cartoons by our artist. Any and all submissions can go through our website or you can email
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Readers!
Here at 2BY4GTA we’re looking to do a lot more than just provide news for those in the construction industry, we’re looking to bring the community together. So we’re reaching out to you, our valued readers: Do you have advice you wish you heard earlier? Or questions for the community? Give us a shout! We want to put questions and advice in our paper. Do you have funny or interesting stories you think the community would enjoy? Send them to us! We’d like to share them Do you have a project you’re particularly proud of? Send it in! We’d love to feature it. Do you have any feedback or questions for us? If so, we’d appreciate hearing it.
Contact us: www.2by4gta.ca info@2by4gta.ca 416-628-6254