IHM News - Summer 2023

Global Warming! Phew!!

I find all the comments about global warming interesting. Whether you believe in global warming or not, in property management we should be aware of what is happening and how it could affect budgets and costs.

Three years ago, I moved to Fall River, Nova Scotia, and in the summer, our weather was always warm with a nice breeze. If we had days with high humidity, it would last for maybe two days and then cool off. This year we have had very high humidity for extended periods of stifling heat (the most recent being nine days).

We can also discuss the horrific fires we had a couple of months ago, which destroyed many homes, forests and cost lives. If that wasn’t enough, less than three weeks ago, we had torrential rains that washed out roads and flooded many areas (I saw a football field in Lower Sackville where the water was up to the crossbars of the goalposts). The main train bridge from New Brunswick to Nova Scotia was destroyed, which resulted in trucks now transporting supplies to our province. Again, devastating losses, including lives. Gas is almost $2.00 per litre, and produce prices have skyrocketed. Some areas had over 260mm of rain in less than twelve hours.

The obvious question is how does this affect us in property management? Utility costs can be significantly over budget if we experience long periods of hot, humid weather and residents are cranking their A/C. If you are trying to keep your grounds green and fresh, how much will that increase water prices? On the other hand, what if areas ban watering – do you now face expenses to repair grass, plants, and other greenery?

How do these weather changes affect our residents? An interesting question to consider. I know after the nine days of hot, humid weather, I am certainly not in the best of moods, I’m tired and my patience level has decreased. Does this have any effect on how people are dealt with daily? Does it have any impact on how our residents deal with us?

It is always a challenge in our profession to determine what impact events can have on fulfilling our daily responsibilities and challenges. What situations affect how we deal with people and the subsequent results? The ever-changing weather patterns and the consequences of them should be taken into consideration.

Global Warning! I think so! – just my opinion.

Jimmy Mellor, FIHM IHM President

Highlights of the 2023 IHM Annual Educational Conference

The 2023 conference took place at the historic Casablanca Hotel in Grimsby, Ontario. It was a great venue that brought back memories of bygone years. The theme for this year’s conference

“Professional Development – Here’s Looking At You” examined the challenges faced by property managers and provided solutions for the professional and personal toils these challenges take on everyday lives.

There were several new additions starting with a Welcome Reception on Wednesday evening, a business program with plenary sessions rather than concurrent sessions, and a round table session. According to survey results, these changes were very popular with delegates.

Day One – Wednesday, May 10th

The 4th annual golf tournament was held at Chippawa Creek Golf Course with 40 golfers enjoying perfect weather and the camaraderie of fellow golfers.

Then back to the hotel for the Welcome Reception in the beautiful Panorama Room. Golfers, delegates, sponsors and speakers took this opportunity to get together for a casual meet and greet.

Day Two – Thursday, May 11th

There isn’t a better way to kick off the business program than with a dynamic and motivational presentation from Rosita Hall. Her message “Resiliency – A ‘Must Have’ Property Manager Mindset” paved the way for the excellent sessions that followed.

The tradeshow was open throughout the day which gave delegates the opportunity to visit with all exhibitors and learn more about the new services, products and programs they offered.

Two excellent panel sessions followed with experts from the paralegal, property management, community support and human relations fields presenting real-life examples

of the daily challenges faced by property managers. These sessions offered solutions to help delegates deal with the impact these challenges have on both their personal and professional lives.

The second day wrapped up with an interactive session on Effective Communication/Relationship Management.

Day Three – Friday, May 12th

The Friday program began with the round table session that covered such topics as Technology Strategies for Operations, Sourcing Amenities, EV Chargers and Maintenance.

This was followed by an excellent presentation on Managing Conflicts and Disputes Effectively by Shawn Conway, a professional mediator.

The closing lunch and award presentations was a time to celebrate some of our successes. The following members received their Service pins…..

5 Year Service Pin:

Nina Busho, AIHM

Pamela Cushman, AIHM

Sunday Oladele Olatunji, AIHM (c)

Andy Rees, AIHM

10 Year Service Pin

Tracey Geddes, AIHM

Lynda Gourlie, AIHM

Valerie Voisin

20 Year Service Pin

Lynn Alexander, FIHM

Ed Cipriani, FIHM

Joanne Kennedy, AIHM

30 Year Service Pin

Kevin McCann, FIHM

Newly accredited members were recognized….

Camelia Sucia, AIHM

Melanie Warrington, AIHM

Anna Orlov, AIHM

Distance Learning instructors in attendance were acknowledged and thanked for their contribution to the success of this program….

Lynn Alexander, FIHM

Pamela Cushman, AIHM

Deborah Filice, FIHM

Francesca Filice, AIHM

Joanne Kennedy, AIHM

Jimmy Mellor, FIHM

A special thank you to the committee members who spent tireless hours planning and executing the 2023 Annual Educational Conference….

Lynn Alexander, FIHM

Deborah Filice, FIHM

Jimmy Mellor, FIHM

The 2023 conference ended with our closing speaker, Jimmy Mellor, FIHM, engaging delegates with his presentation on the importance of effective communication with everyone in our personal and professional lives.

Lots of networking…..

The days were busy but the evenings were left free so delegates could enjoy the many attractions that Grimsby had to offer. u

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors

Without the support of these companies, the IHM Annual Education Conference would not be possible.

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsor

Bronze Sponsors

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Dealing With Power Failures

By Carola Mittag

Power outages can be a major challenge for housing managers, causing disruption, possible life-threatening conditions for health-compromised residents, not to mention inconvenience for all residents. Without electricity, vulnerable residents may be left without heating, air conditioning or access to medical equipment. This can quickly become life-threatening, especially for those with chronic illnesses or disabilities. In addition, food may spoil, leaving residents without access to necessary sustenance.

To ensure a prompt and efficient response, it is essential for housing managers to be prepared for power outage emergencies. By providing training and resources, housing managers can be equipped to handle power outages and minimize disruptions to residents. Local fire departments are a good resource in receiving vital information to prepare for emergencies.

Power failures can occur unexpectedly making it essential to have effective action plans in place to ensure residents’ safety during such situations. One of the crucial steps is to provide emergency lighting and backup power sources to ensure that residents have access to basic amenities and can move around safely.

Additionally, it is important to educate and have clear communication channels with residents and other stakeholders, and keep them informed about the situation, any potential risks, and the expected duration of the power out-

age. It is also advisable to have a backup plan for medical equipment and possibly maintain a stock of essential supplies such as food, water, and medication if appropriate. By having a comprehensive action plan and protocols in place, residential housing managers can ensure the safety and well-being of their residents during power failures. Housing managers have a responsibility to keep residents safe and informed during these emergencies. To ensure a prompt and efficient response, it is essential for housing managers to be prepared for power outage emergencies.

Here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Develop an Emergency Plan - Create a comprehensive emergency plan that outlines what to do in case of a power outage. Make sure all staff members and residents are aware of the plan and know what to do.

2. Stock up on Supplies - Have a stockpile of supplies, including flashlights, batteries, first aid kits, and non-perishable food items. Make sure the supplies are easily accessible and stored in a secure location.

3. Communicate with ResidentsKeep your residents informed about the power outage and any updates. Consider setting up a communication system, such as a phone tree or social media group, to keep everyone informed.

4. Train Your Staff - Make sure your staff is trained in how to handle power outages and emergency sit-

uations. They should know how to safely evacuate residents, operate emergency equipment, and handle medical emergencies.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your housing community is well-prepared and safe during power outage emergencies.

Housing managers face numerous challenges during power failures, ensuring the safety and comfort of residents, maintaining essential services and managing communication with stakeholders. However, with proper planning and preparation, housing managers can minimize the impact of power outages and ensure the safety and comfort of their residents. By taking proactive measures and staying vigilant, housing managers can successfully navigate the challenges of power failures and maintain a safe and secure living environment for their communities.

Carola Mittag is the former owner of Workplace Safety Group and currently advisor to Mentor Safety.

MSCI offers professional safety consulting services and Chief Prevention Officer (CPO) – approved certifications for joint health and safety committees (in-class and virtual) and Working at Heights, as well as customized training programs.

MSCI has developed auditing tools to ensure that facilities and property managers meet all legislative health and safety compliance requirements. Email Carola at wpsgceo@gmail.com u

Restricting Unauthorized Access to Your Rooftop

By Vincenzo Cutrone Skyline Group

WHY RESTRICT UNAUTHORIZED ROOF ACCESS?

Whether you want to prevent vandalism or ensure contractors’ safety, finding ways to prevent unauthorized access and reduce fall risks on your rooftop is essential. For some, climbing onto roofs can seem attractive and exciting. The intent is never to get hurt, but fatal accidents can occur while causing mischief or trying to break into a building. Sometimes it can be as simple as a young adult trying to retrieve a football from the school rooftop. With many rooftops missing the required safety solutions, mixed with the individual on the rooftop needing more training on how to utilize the available fall protection, the results can be fatal. During the winter months, hazards like skylights are challenging to see, even for those who work on rooftops 24/7, making unauthorized access a challenge that needs to be solved.

If someone experiences an injury on your rooftop, even if they access it without your permission, there’s a chance that you could still be liable. In Canada, the Westray Law (Bill C-45) makes the owner of the building criminally liable for injuries that occur on their rooftop. This liability is drastically mitigated

when the appropriate rooftop safety solutions are in place.

I CAN SIMPLY CUT MY LADDER SHORTER, RIGHT? WRONG!

Yes, you read that correctly! As we conduct in-person rooftop audits and work with partners across North America, many fixed access ladders are missing the first 5 – 12 feet of their ladder. You might be wondering why… The reason for doing so is to create a safer environment that restricts unwanted access to the roof. The thought process is as follows, if the ladder is too high to reach, then a step or extension ladder will be required, making it challenging for the general public to access the roof.

In principle, it sounds like a great idea, assuming that those that have easy access to a ladder are authorized to be on the roof. The challenge is that cutting the access ladder creates a new hazard that never existed in the first place. Let me explain... By cutting the ladder you are:

• Cutting a ladder that the manufacturer built to meet your local safety guidelines, making that ladder non-compliant, as the product was altered after being tested and/or stamped.

• Requiring your staff or service personnel to utilize a step ladder or extension ladder to climb onto the roof access ladder is creating a hazard in itself. Depending on how the ladder is cut there could be a lifeline that can only be used at 12 feet, making it difficult to tie your harness to. Some roof ladders also have a cage, so climbing into the caged ladder from the step ladder you are on poses its own unique hazard.

• Also, when using a step ladder, it is not safe or allowed to step on the last step. Depending on your ladder length this may be required to climb onto the access ladder.

• You will not always have three points of contact while climbing. This causes a major concern and increases the risk of a fall.

• How about when you are now trying to descend from the ladder? If you are descending from a lifeline ladder you will be required to tie off from the lifeline while still being 12 feet from the ground, which is still

considered to be a dangerous height across Canada.

• B eing able to descend from the roof also assumes that the step ladder on the ground hasn’t been removed. Being stuck on the roof waiting for someone to open the hatch door is not how service personnel want to spend their day.

• Is not in compliance with fixed access ladder installation guidelines, as most codes require the bottom rung of a ladder to be around 300 mm (1 foot) off the ground.

As you can see from the above points, cutting your building’s outdoor access ladder 5 – 12 feet from the ground will create many more hazards than it solves. And the alternative, more compliant solution, is much easier and cost-effective to implement.

HOW DO I RESTRICT UNWANTED ROOF ACCESS?

The answer is much simpler than one would think. When purchasing a fixed access ladder from Skyline Group you have the option to have a lockable door that easily integrates into your ladder system. This restricts unwanted access, as anyone who requires access to the roof would require approval or the key from the facility maintenance team or building owner. The installation is simple, as doors are fixed directly to the existing ladder frame, eliminating access to the first 6 – 8 rungs depending on the unit’s installation. If you have a cage on your ladder, a lockable security door attaches to the cage’s body. This restricts access to the inner section of the cage on the ladder. Cameras are also increasing in popularity, with video surveillance being an easy and pro-

active means to protect your roof from unauthorized access.

YOUR ROOFTOP SAFETY PARTNER

At Skyline Group we pride ourselves in being leaders in rooftop safety, making roof access and compliance easy. If you are faced with a rooftop hazard, such as a ladder that looks like the ones above, call our team of safety experts to learn about our array of aluminum access ladders and various other rooftop safety solutions.

Vincenzo Cutrone, Marketing Manager, Skyline Group +1 438 368 4710

Radon Gas

September 20, 2023 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM via Zoom

Moderator:

Jim Mellor, FIHM, IHM President

Presenter: Robert Maccarrone

Strategic & Financial Planning for Property Managers

September 8, 15, 22 & 29th, 2023

8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Zoom Session

1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. - Asynchronous Learning

Students will be required to self-study from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm each day and prepare for the following week of Review.

October 6, 2023

The final online exam will take place from 9:00 am – 12:00 noon

Instructor: Jimmy Mellor, FIHM

IHM is pleased to announce that the Strategic & Financial Planning Course (one of the five core courses within the Institute’s Certificate in Property Management program) will be offered in an online format. IHM students are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity for an online learning environment outside of a community college.

The course will be offered in a rigorous 4-day format with the instructor covering several chapters weekly with time for questions and discussion. Students will then have the week to review chapters and prepare for the next week’s class. The exam will be held on the 5th week.

Program Outline

Cost: $700.00 (plus $91.00 HST)

Fee Includes course manual

Register for the course today and receive complimentary membership until December 31, 2024.

Sign-up online at www.ihmcanada. net or contact Beth McKenzie, at 416-493-7382 ext option 1 for further details.

For a list of benefits of membership with IHM please visit the website at: www.ihmcanada.net

MINIMUM OF 5 STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED

This course is designed to provide a complete review of the accounting process and principles, the managerial use of accounting and financial statements and their analysis, and budget preparation procedures for property managers. In addition, the techniques and approaches for establishing and organizing objectives and implementing strategies will be discussed.

NOTE: IHM will courier the course manual in advance. Students will be required to read and complete certain chapters from the manual prior to the course, so strict adherence to published registration deadlines will be observed.

REGISTRATION FORM FOR CHEQUE PAYMENT ONLY

No refunds will be provided after Friday, August 18, 2023.

FEE: $ 700.00 + 13% HST $ 91.00 = $ 791.00

Name Organization:

Address: City: Prov: Postal Code:

Phone: Email:

Allergies/Dietary Restrictions:

Cheques payable to: Institute of Housing Management, 2800 14th Avenue, Suite 210, Markham, Ontario L3R 0E4 Tel: (416) 493-7382 | Toll Free: (866) 212-4377 | Fax: (416) 491-1670 | email: info@ihmcanada.net

All core courses are also available through distance learning. Visit ihmcanada.net for further details.

Course Completions in Property Management

Finance

Kimberley Bourne

Marilyn Dos Santos

Mohammed Islam

Melissa Mercer

Frank Prospero

Joan Wilson

u u u

Human Relations

Godofredo Corrales

Marilyn Dos Santos

Jennifer Leblanc

Ryan O’Hearn

Slobodanka Boba Popovic

Stacey Sanelli

u u u

Tenancy Law

Darline Buckley

Marilyn Dos Santos

Nicole Gulewitsch

John Lee

Shannon McDowell

Peter McQuinn

Wendy Singh

u u u

Maintenance

Esinida Gjikolaj

Theodoros Lanis

Manoj Mathew

Joan Wilson

Brian Zidovec

u u u

Administration

Nicole Gulewitsch

Michelle Korona

Annabelle Landicho

John Lee

Margarita Navarrete de Garcia

Gregory Rimpel

Andrew Swan

Ben Vuong

Vanessa Walsh

Brian Zidovec

Best Practices in Rooftop Safety & Compliance

November 15, 2023 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM via Zoom

Moderator:

Jim Mellor, FIHM, IHM President

Presenter: Vernon Ghinn, VP Safety Specialist,, Skyline Group

Details and to Register

IHM Members Qualify for the CMM Accreditation

IHM and OMMI are working together to offer the Certified Municipal Manager (CMM) Accreditation. The CMM Accreditation program recognizes management capabilities of Ontario’s local government administrators. This accreditation recognizes both academic achievement and employment experience.

IHM members who have completed Property and Building Administration and Building Maintenance for Property Managers can apply for the Housing Management Specialist designation. IHM members who have completed the five (5) core IHM education courses and meet other requirements, can apply for the Housing Management Professional designation. This is a great opportunity for IHM members to be recognized for their academic and employment achievements.

Congratulations to the following IHM members who have received their CMM Accreditation:

CMM III Housing Management Professional

Elizabeth Black, AIHM, CMMIII

Christine Brutin, AIHM, CMMIII

Anne-Marie Cheung, AIHM, CMMIII

Gwen Enright, AIHM, CMMIII

Deborah Filice, FIHM, CMMIII

Kathy Harris, AIHM, CMMIII

Kevin O’Hara, FIHM, CMMIII

Jacqueline Quinn, AIHM, CMMIII

Lee-Ann St. Jacques, AIHM, CMMIII

Melissa Sheflin, AIHM, CMMIII

CMM II Housing Management Professional

Joanne Kennedy, AIHM, CMMII

Jennie Matthews, AIHM, CMMII

Michele Shears, AIHM, CMMII

Mashkoor Sherwani, AIHM, CMMII

Click here for more information.

Welcome to IHM’s Newest Accredited Members

Anna Jacek, AIHM

Tania

Ormshaw, AIHM

Calling All Property Managers…

We know that a Property Manager’s job can be both challenging and interesting. How often have you come to work with your day all planned in your head only to have something unexpected come along? We are looking for some stories to share with your colleagues in the Property Management field.

If you have an interesting story that you would be will to author, please contact the Newsletter Committee at info@ihmcanada.net

Visit

Congratulations to Ed Cipriani - Mohawk College’s Everyday Hero for January 2023

IHM is excited to announce that Director, Ed Cipriani, FIHM, was the recipient of the Mohawk College Everyday Hero Award. For the tremendous support he provides to the Stoney Creek campus, Ed Cipriani is a Mohawk College Everyday Hero. As Director, Facilities Operations at the college, Ed provides leadership and support for a range of facilities projects at the college. His ability to address challenges and engage the Stoney Creek campus team in meaningful and supportive consultation has been an asset to the campus. He always comes to a meeting positive and solution-focused, an approach that has strengthened the team’s relationship with facilities and enabled them to work collaboratively on many projects. Ed goes above and beyond to ensure the team understands key technical elements, vendor implications, and provides important background and experience that supports strategic decision-making.

2023-2024 IHM Board of Directors

EXECUTIVE

President

Jimmy Mellor, FIHM

Director of Operations, Precision Property Management

22 Goodmark Place, Suite 22, Toronto, ON M9W 6R2

Tel: 416-887-9253 | Fax: 416-675-0170

Email: jimmym@ppmgmt.ca

Vice President

Marketing/Membership Committee

Kevin McCann, FIHM

Email: kevinmccann98@hotmail.com

Secretary-Treasurer Conference Committee Chair

Lynn Alexander, FIHM

Region of Durham Housing Services

P.O.Box 623, Whitby, ON L1N 6A3

Tel: 905-666-6222 | Fax: 905-666-6225

Email: Lynn.alexander@durham.ca

DIRECTORS

Co-op Accreditation Program Member

Ed Cipriani, FIHM

ecpm@skylinc.net

Education Committee Member

Tracey Csordas, AIHM

Email: traceycsordas@yahoo.com

Co-op Accreditation Program Chair

Phil Eram, B.Sc., FIHM

Precision Property Management Inc.

22 Goodmark Place, Suite 22, Toronto, ON M9W 6R2

Tel: 416-675-2223

Email: pgsd@cogeco.ca

Membership/Marketing Committee Member, Conference Committee Member, Co-op Accreditation Program Member, Communications Committee Member

Deborah Filice, MEd, RSSW, FIHM, CIHCM, CMMIII DAF Property Management Services Inc.

Tel: 289-244-8269

Email: dfilice@dafpmservices.com

Communication Committee Chair, Conference Committee Member

Francesca Filice, B.A., AIHM

Property Manager

Victoria Park Community Homes

Tel: 289-244-8059 | Email: ffilice@vpch.com

Communication Committee Member

Sandra Herrera, AIHM

Email: windsor.ihm.sh@gmail.com

Membership/Marketing Committee Chair

Marissa Zuliani, AIHM

Property Management Solutions Inc.

3542 Walker Road, Windsor, ON N8W 3S4

Tel: 226-961-3323

Email: info@propertymanagementsolutions.ca

CANDIDATE MEMBER

Stacey Sanelli

Precision Property Management Inc.

22 Goodmark Place, Suite 22, Toronto, ON M9W 6R2

Tel: 416-887-1251 | Email: staceys@ppmgmt.ca

IHM Office: Carolyne Vigon, Operations Manager Beth

IHM Corporate Members

Thank you to Appollo Pest Management, 2023 Event Sponsor and Corporate Member.

Thank you to all IHM Corporate Members.

St. Thomas-Elgin Social Services