Keep It Clear: Your Guide to Balcony and Patio Drainage Maintenance
Living in a community with shared structures means that how you manage your private outdoor space can directly impact your neighbors and the building’s integrity. One of the most critical—yet often overlooked—responsibilities of ownership is maintaining your unit’s established drainage.
Here is what you need to know to keep your balcony, patio, or roof deck in top shape and avoid unexpected repair costs.
What is “Established Drainage”?
Per our community guidelines, established drainage refers to the water flow patterns set during the original construction or those officially approved by the Board. This system is designed to move water away from the building to prevent pooling, leaks, and structural erosion.
Your Responsibilities as an Owner
To ensure the system works as intended, owners are required to:
- Perform Regular Inspections: Frequently check the drainage facilities in your Exclusive Use areas (balconies, patios, and roof decks).
- Clear Debris: Keep drains free of common “cloggers” like pet hair, fallen leaves, and dirt. Even a small buildup can cause water to back up during a heavy rain.
- Avoid Prohibited Materials: Do not install tiles or other flooring materials in Exclusive Use Easement Areas, as these can interfere with the intended water flow.
- Proper Disposal: Never dispose of hazardous materials down these drains.
Why It Matters: The Risks of Neglect
If a drain becomes clogged and is not cleared, it creates an imminent danger to both person and property. Water backup can lead to interior flooding, mold, and damage to the units below yours.
Please note: If an owner fails to maintain their drainage, the Association reserves the right to enter the area to clear the debris to prevent damage. In these cases, the Owner will be responsible for reimbursing the Association for all costs and expenses incurred during the cleaning.
Maintenance Checklist
- Weekly Sweep: Quickly sweep your balcony or patio with a dustpan to remove pet hair, soot, dust and leaves before they reach the drain. You can use a damp mop to remove further dirt without dripping excess water into the drain and onto balconies below.
- Monthly Flush: Ensure the drain cover is visible and clear of dirt buildup.
- Storm Prep: Always check your drains before a forecasted rainstorm to ensure they are wide open and ready for runoff.
By taking a few minutes each month to inspect your space, you help protect your home and our community safe from water damage.
Helpful Tip! Also check that your unit’s door track is free of debris as sliders also have their own drain to keep water from getting in through the door that will not function if there is dirt in the track.