IHM News - Summer 2024 by LS Graphics

President’s Message

It’s hard to believe that the end of summer is fast approaching. I hope everyone has taken some vacation time to relax and enjoy the beautiful summer weather.

In the first week of June, I had the pleasure of attending the CHF Canada Conference in Winnipeg, where we launched the new accreditation program for those in the Co-op Housing Sector. The new program is called Co-op Housing Management Accreditation (CHMA), and we offered Human Relations as the first course.

We offered the first two days of instruction via Zoom before the actual conference, and two days were offered in-person at the conference. Seventeen co-op sector participants registered and participated in the first joint program developed by IHM and CHF Canada. It was very exciting and, from the feedback of those attending, it was successful. Students are pleased that the new program is being developed and that the three remaining core courses will be delivered in the coming months through virtual learning and distance learning. Both CHF Canada and IHM websites contain full details on the CHMA program and the upcoming classes.

Many years of working with CHF Canada and IHM have now brought the CHMA program to fruition. I sincerely thank all our members and staff who have participated in this journey and contributed so much to making this a reality.

There is always more news to share with our members. In July, we will be holding our first Conference Committee meeting to discuss the feedback from the Stratford event in May 2024 and look ahead at the 2025 program. The committee will review the survey results from the 2024 conference that contained suggestions to improve the overall experience for future conferences. The duration of the conference, location and suggestions for topics/speakers are all up for discussion as we begin to plan for the 2025 conference.

We recently put out a flyer about recruiting volunteers who would like to contribute to IHM in various capacities. On the first day, we received multiple replies and set up a meeting to discuss their interests and where they would like to help. This is very encouraging, and I thank those who showed an interest. IHM is a volunteer-driven organization and the support of our directors and members is key to its success.

Our membership continues to grow; we approve more Accredited Members each year, and our student count keeps increasing yearly (Colleges, Virtual and Distance Learning). It is all very exciting and encouraging for the future of IHM.

Jimmy Mellor, FIHM IHM President

Highlights of the 2024 IHM Annual Educational Conference

The beautiful town of Stratford, Ontario welcomed delegates to the 2024 Annual Educational Conference. The Arden Park Hotel was a great venue, the food was plentiful and delicious and the staff was amazing. The theme for this year’s conference “Much Ado About Managing” focused on both human relations and maintenance issues, and provided delegates with the information and solutions needed to face day to day challenges.

Day One – Wednesday, May 8th

The 5th annual golf tournament was held at Foxwood Golf Course with 40 golfers experiencing a combination of windy, sunny, cloudy and rainy weather but enjoying the camaraderie of fellow golfers nonetheless. Thanks to River Rock Laundry for their sponsorship of the tournament and lunch.

egates, sponsors and speakers took this opportunity to get together for a casual meet and greet.

Day Two – Thursday, May 9th

The conference kicked off with greetings by Stratford Mayor Martin Ritsma. The mayor was delightful, humourous and he stayed on to en-

joy the presentation by the keynote speaker – Brian Doucet.

Brian spoke of The Housing Crisis: Root Causes and Transformative Solutions. His message presented delegates with some interesting and informative food for thought as the country tackles the ongoing housing crises.

The round table discussions followed the keynote address and the room was alive with the interchange of ideas and suggestions.

Krista Scott and Brynn Harlock, Housing Program Advisors with the Region of Waterloo, led an excellent session on “Community Housing Succession Strategy – Preparing for the Post-End Mortgages Environment”. The audience was engaged as was witnessed by the many questions that followed.

Then back to the hotel for the Welcome Reception where golfers, del-

This was followed by a presentation by Shasta Parson, Limestone Legal

Services who provided great advice on preparing for and participating in Evidence and Landlord Tenant Board Hearings.

The day ended with a presentation by Simon Leith, Homepro Pest Control, on Mastering

The Art of Pest Control. This topic is always top of mind with property managers and Simon provided some excellent advice on preparing for and executing solutions that work.

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.

Day Three – Friday, May 10th

Brian Leverton, Chief Fire Prevention Officer, St. Marys Fire Department, started the day with a detailed presentation on the importance and requirements of a fire safety plan. The message – preparation and planning are essential to ensure the safety of tenants and staff in the event of a fire.

This was followed by an excellent presentation on Mould Awareness and Remediation – another issue that plagues property managers. James Barker, Barker Environment Consultiong Inc., took delegates through the journey of identifying and remediating mould.

The closing lunch and award presentations was a time to recognize members who had achieved milestones in the past year. The following members received their service pins…..

Thank You to Our Sponsors

5 Year Service Pin

Kimberly Palmer, AIHM(c)

Amanda Stevenson

Trish Kent, AIHM

Bernardo Navarro, AIHM(c)

10 Year Service Pin

Behnaz Karimi, AIHM

Kristi Scott, AIHM

A special presentation was made to Carola Mittag. Carola has generously supported IHM by providing educational articles on workplace health and safety for inclusion in the IHM quarterly newsletter for the past 11 years. IHM is extremely grateful for Carola’s support and it was an honour to recognize her through the presentation of a plaque that read “In appreciation of your generous support of the Institute of Housing Management Canada and to the IHM Quarterly Newsletter. Your submission of articles related to workplace health and safety and human resource management has been an excellent source of valuable information for the Institute’s members and for that we are most grateful.”

And with that, the 2024 conference came to end. Thanks to our presenters, the organizing committee, delegates and especially our sponsors….

Protecting Communities: The Vital Role of Pest Prevention Programs in Residential Buildings

By: Shaam Patel, Apollo Pest Management

In bustling urban communities, residential buildings stand as bastions of comfort and safety for their inhabitants. Yet, even in the most meticulously maintained structures, an unseen threat can lurk: pests. From rodents to insects, these unwelcome visitors can not only compromise the integrity of the building but also pose health risks to residents. Recognizing the gravity of this issue, experts emphasize the critical importance of implementing robust pest prevention programs in residential settings.

Pest infestations are not merely nuisances; they can have profound impacts on the well-being of a community. Beyond causing structural damage and contaminating living spaces, pests can also transmit diseases, exacerbating health concerns among residents. In densely populated areas, such as apartment complexes and condominiums, the rapid spread of pests can turn into a widespread problem, affecting multiple households and creating a domino effect of financial and health-related consequences.

A comprehensive pest prevention program serves as a proactive measure to safeguard residential build-

ings and their inhabitants against these potential hazards. By employing a combination of preventative measures, such as regular inspections, sealing entry points, and implementing proper waste management practices, property managers and residents can mitigate the risk of infestations before they escalate. Moreover, enlisting the expertise of licensed pest control professionals ensures the use of effective and environmentally responsible methods to address any existing pest issues.

The benefits of a proactive approach to pest management extend beyond individual units; they resonate

throughout the entire community. A well-maintained residential building not only fosters a healthier living environment but also enhances the overall quality of life for its residents. Reduced exposure to pests and the associated health risks promotes peace of mind and encourages a sense of community cohesion. Furthermore, preserving the integrity of the building through pest prevention measures helps maintain property values and attractiveness, contributing to the sustainability and desirability of the neighborhood.

In essence, the implementation of

a robust pest prevention program is not merely a matter of property maintenance; it is a testament to a community’s commitment to the well-being of its residents. By prioritizing proactive measures to deter pests and mitigate their impact, residential buildings can uphold their role as havens of safety and comfort in the urban landscape. Through collective efforts and vigilance, communities can build resilience against the pervasive threat of pests, ensuring a healthier and happier living environment for all. u

UPCOMING IHM EVENTS

September 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2024 | Exam October 4, 2024

8:30 am - 12:30 pm - Zoom

IHM Compulsory Courses - Building Maintenance for Property Management

September 18, 2024

12:00 - 1:00 pm - Zoom

IHM Chat Room Series - Emergency Preparedness / Business Continuity

October 16, 2024

12:00 - 1:00 pm - Zoom

IHM Chat Room Series - Harnessing AI for Transformation in the Non-Profit Sector

November 20, 2024

12:00 - 1:00 pm - Zoom

IHM Chat Room Series - Insurance - Facility and Tenant Insurance

December 11, 2024

12:00 - 1:00 pm - Zoom

IHM Chat Room Series - Open Mike - Tell us what you want to chat about.

Visit our website’s Events Page for information and updates on all IHM Events

Water Consumption in Rental Housing

By: Kevin McCann, FIHM

In December 2023, the Ontario Environment Commissioner released a report stating that there is an enormous opportunity for Ontario to reduce its energy consumption and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) impact by reducing water consumption. A recent survey showed that 38% of all energy consumed by municipalities was related to the operation of water and wastewater systems. This equates to 30 billion kWh per year! In addition to the GHG resulting from the use of energy, the actual processing of sewage releases substantial amounts of methane and carbon dioxide. Canadians are the second highest consumers of water on a per capita basis in the world, consuming many times the amount of water used in other developed countries, suggesting that substantial reductions are achievable.

Most landlords have already undertaken basic measures to reduce water consumption i.e. installed low flow shower heads and toilets, aerators on taps, replaced laun-

as opposed to partial, reporting leaking toilets/taps, etc. can make a significant difference. There are numerous sites that landlords can reference for tenant/member education material. (See bottom of article).

In rental housing we tend to over consume and waste water unnecessarily. Most tenants/members are not required to pay for the water they consume and as a result, are not aware of how much they consume, how much it costs or the impact the consumption has on the environment.

dry equipment with more efficient models, etc. But there is a need to build further on these efforts. One of the most effective methods involves tenant/member education. A poll of Canadians taken in 2023 reported that 72% of the population is concerned or very concerned about the environment and more than half of them indicated a willingness to make changes in their living habits to address the issue.

Simple changes in habits such as turning off a running tap while brushing teeth, taking shorter showers, running full laundry loads

Tenant/member education methods can include the use of meetings (live or virtual), newsletters, tenant/ member handbooks, brochures, on-line information on various websites, etc. Landlords should share with their tenant/members any initiatives that they have already taken or plan to take to address energy and water consumption. This shows that the landlord is also committed and is doing their part.

https://davidsuzuki.org/living-green/make-every-dropcount-water-conservation-tips

https://livinglakescanada.ca/howyou-can-help/learn/tips-to-savewater

Kevin McCann will often provide maintenance articles for the quarterly newsletter. Kevin is a current Director and past Vice-President of the IHM-Canada. u

Air Conditioner Condensing Unit on Balconies

By: Ed Cipriani, FIHM

This article shares information regarding the pros and cons of installing an air conditioner condensing unit on a balcony and the ideal location of the unit.

The installation of the condensing unit on the balcony has advantages, such as the condensing unit will not be exposed to atmospheric precipitation and direct sunbeams; moreover, the risks of mechanical damage to the module are excluded. As long as the balconies are not cluttered, there is free access to the internal system of the condensing unit that will allow maintenance, cleaning, and other repair and maintenance works with maximum convenience. There is also the fact that installation costs are reduced due to the lack of necessity for expensive high-altitude work to fix the unit.

The installation of an air conditioner on the balcony has no distinguishing features from the installation performed on the facade of the building. However, still, there are some nuances on which the quality and effectiveness of the climate device will depend. The top portion of the condensing unit distance from

the top of the handrail of the balcony railing system should be at a minimum of 1.07 m or 42”. Please keep in mind that the balcony should not have glazing as the railing system, as this may slow down air circulation around the unit. In the process of operation, the external unit takes away heat from the internal components, which will noticeably increase the air temperature on the glazed balcony and may lead to overheating of the unit and reduce the effectiveness of its work. Another concern with the installation of the condensing unit on a glazed

balcony is the increased noise level during the operation of the equipment by sound reflection from the surfaces of the closed balcony.

Also, the installation should not be near other objects that prevent the free circulation of air. The height of the unit should not be less than 10 cm from the ceiling surface or not less than 30 cm from the balcony floor. Consideration for a suitable location on the exterior wall must be an even and firm surface that can withstand the considerable weight of the condensing unit. There are

brackets specifically made to support the weight of the condensing unit and keep them off the balcony floor. Therefore, they will be away from the railings, stopping anyone from climbing on the condenser unit and jumping or falling over the balcony railing. Please note that along with the possibility of someone climbing on the condensing unit, resident planter boxes or other decorative items can also be an opportunity for someone to climb.

Suppose the condensing unit must be close to the balcony railing. To reduce the impact that the condenser unit will have on someone climbing it, you may want to consider installing a non-climbable barrier around or in front of it. The barrier will need to have adequate ventila-

tion openings without providing toe holes to aid in climbing, including a method of gaining access for maintenance.

One key component to include is the location and drainage of the condensate line. Usually, we find the best solution for draining the condensate line is to install a gutter for the drainage outside of the balcony or in the sewerage pipe.

Ed Cipriani is the current Vice President of IHM, conference speaker and long time member of IHM - Canada u

UPCOMING EVENT

Building Maintenance for Property Managers

September 6, 13, 20, 27, 2024

Exam - October 4

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

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

Growing Rat Infestations Becoming a Major Problem for Ontario’s Largest Cities

By: Simon Leith, Homepro Pest Control

No one wants to deal with rats. Frankly, they’re terrifying and they are multiplying out of control and quickly taking over major cities and growing communities across Ontario.

Milder winters due to climate change have enabled rat populations to flourish by extending the months when rats can mate and feed. Combine this with construction booms across Ontario which have disrupted rat habitats underground and forced these critters to search for new homes above ground and into residential neighbourhoods.

Rats present a serious problem for apartment buildings. Not only do

they feed in the garbage bins outside of the building, but they can also gain entry into buildings through openings as small as a quarter. Once inside, they will chew through electrical wires, pipes and gas lines - materials that hold apartment buildings together.

When it comes to apartment buildings, rats pose a serious serious risk of reputational harm along with a host of health concerns. Rats and their droppings are known carriers of everything from food poisoning and the hantavirus to bubonic plague.

Disease aside, rats in apartment

buildings can often leave residents feeling unsafe. Without quick action, a rat infestation can spiral out of control. That’s because rats are serial breeders. With roughly 8 babies per litter, and a new litter every few weeks, one female rat can generate 15,000 new rats in a year!

So how bad is the rat situation today?

We may think of New York as having a notable rat problem, but we’re not immune in Ontario either.

In Toronto, city councillors are looking to launch a rat task force in the City to deal with Toronto’s ever-expanding construction industry and to make sure that rat issues are accounted for as part of any building planning. They note that a plan needs to move quickly, as the more that things get mired in bureaucratic red tape, the more time rats have to reproduce.

In Ottawa, the City is trying another solution. Instead of trying to trap existing rats, the City is debating a proposal to cut off the supply of new ones by implementing a form of rat birth control that has been used in some U.S. cities. However, the red tape may again become a critical

issue - Health Canada could take 2 years to complete a scientific review of this new product.

According to CBC News, the proposal isn’t without controversy. While the specially designed birth control is unlikely to seriously harm other animals who may ingest the pellets, it may cause sterility. Additionally, New York has made similar efforts which have been unsuccessful, largely in part to the city’s crowded population and garbage issues.

So what can apartment buildings do to help control the rat population?

Here are a few suggestions:

Have a construction plan. If you’re implementing new construction, or doing any underground work, you’re more than likely going to disturb a rat population - and they won’t be happy about it. Have a rodent control plan in place before beginning any work.

Manage your garbage. To rats, your building’s dumpsters are akin to a Michelin-star restaurant. Remember, rats can fit into tight spaces and can smell food from far away. Find tight-fitting solutions that keep

trash secure, and store dumpsters safely until waste can be collected.

Call a professional. Fighting a rat problem without a strategic solution can feel like a never-ending game of whack-a-mole. A professional pest control team can devise a long-term strategy including strategic bait placement and identification of entry points.

Simon Leith is the President of Homepro Pest Control which specializes in servicing residential and commercial properties across Ontario. u

Education

Course Completions in Property Management

Maintenance

Adeni Abigo

Heather Boyachek

Patti Brown

Chris Castator

Lindsay Garcia

Michelle Korona

Jen Nichols

Amanda Stevensonl

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Administration

Chantel Caza

Amanda Fisher

Alexis Olsen

Paul Olup

Connor Reid

Richard Secord

Emilee Wotton

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Finance

Patti Brown

Chris Castator

Esinida Gjikolaj

Theodoros Lanis

Ashley Massey

Andrew Swan

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Tenancy Law

Harpreet Kaur

Kayla Meloche

Brian Zidovec

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Human Relations

Alexander Aguiar

Ryan Campbell

Phil Klugman

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Welcome to IHM’s Newest Accredited Members

Debbie Craig, AIHM

Jennifer Leblanc, AIHM

Amanda Stevenson, AIHM

Honourary Candidate Memberships

Patti Brown, AIHM(c)

Chris Castator, AIHM(c)

Debbie Craig, AIHM(c)

Kaitlynn Martins, AIHM(c)

UPCOMING CHAT ROOM EVENTS

Emergency Preparedness/ Business Continuity

September 18, 2024

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM via Zoom

Presenter: Ed Cipriani, FIHM

Presentation Description:

The management of a facility is committed to preventing, mitigating, responding to, and recovering from any emergency as quickly and efficiently as possible. To support this commitment, an Emergency Response Plan would outline the facility’s emergency response framework to ensure the safety of the occupants and the facility and minimize the impact on operations. The management of the facility is committed to providing the safest possible environment for occupants. The Emergency Response Plan is designed to assist in the management of all incidents and emergencies affecting the facility. The plan takes an “all hazards” risk mitigation approach to any potential emergency that involves the occupants of the facility. The plan designates the framework and guiding principles on how the facility will respond, recover from, and mitigate the impact of an emergency within the facility.