7 Mistakes Strata Councils Make with Leak Detection

Strata councils across the Lower Mainland are feeling the pressure of rising water damage deductibles. In the rush to protect their buildings, many make critical errors in their approach to leak detection.

1. Relying Only on Alarms: A sensor that only beeps is useless if the resident isn't home. An automatic shut-off valve is essential.

2. Choosing Non-Certified Installers: Insurance companies require systems to be installed to specific standards. Always use a Prevcan Certified Installer.

3. Ignoring the Main Line: Protecting individual appliances is good, but without controlling the main water entry point, you are vulnerable to hidden pipe failures.

4. Skipping Regular Maintenance: Like any critical infrastructure, sensors and valves need periodic testing to ensure they function when an emergency strikes.

5. Poor Sensor Placement: Placing sensors too far from potential leak sources delays response times. Professional assessment is necessary for optimal placement.

6. Overlooking Common Areas: Laundry rooms, boiler rooms, and mechanical spaces are frequent sources of catastrophic leaks and must be monitored.

7. Failing to Educate Residents: The best system in the world won't work if residents unplug sensors or misunderstand how the system operates.