Many Albertan residents get to enjoy their balconies almost all year round these days with many residents ‘winterizing’ their decks. This involves switching out furniture in the warmer seasons and starting to wash their balconies.

While that’s all fine, issues start to arise on multi-family buildings. There is the cleaning aspect, but there are other things to keep in mind with proper etiquette of balconies too. To help, here are some reminders.

1.First Do These Things When Cleaning

When cleaning there are some things to keep in mind:

• Be sure to sweep the dirt or debris into the middle of the balcony before sweeping it up with a dustpan.
• Use a mop and bucket to wash the surface of the balcony.
• You can make all this easier by using a handheld wet/dry vacuum and use it exclusively for the outdoors.
• Cover the edges of the balcony with rolled up towels to help with avoiding water or dirt from being pushed over the edge

 

2.Avoid Doing The Following When Cleaning

On top of that avoid doing the following:

• Pushing anything over the edge. Unless you’re on the ground floor, anything you sweep over the edges will fall to the balcony below you.
• Using too much water. Overuse of it will lead to the water running off the edge.
• Pushing dirty water over the edge. Find another way to collect it.

 

3. Take Note Of Pets

If pets are allowed, you want to avoid using the balcony as your pets bathroom. You also want to avoid that space for brushing or grooming purposes too as excess fur can affect those around you.

You also have to keep in mind the noise level as well.

 

4. Note Furniture And Plants

We all know furniture and plants change a simple patio into a delightful space to be. However it’s important that what you put on the balcony can withstand the elements – namely wind. Anything that could possibly blow off can cause damage or hurt other people.

This pertains to plants too as they typically sit on the railings of balconies and can lead to falling potted plants unless they’re securely bound.

 

5. Garbage And Storage

You should never throw anything off a balcony. Even things like small pieces of trash or cigarette butts – if the condo allows smoking. Also note that corporations generally have rules against balconies being used for storage as they’re often eyesores.

 

6. Noise

Everyone is entitled to peaceful enjoyment of their space therefore you want to be mindful of what you are doing while on the balcony. Even if you don’t have pets, you can create other noise that can disturb people.

Also as a general rule, there a quiet hours set in place that start at either 10 or 11 pm in most situations. Around those times you want to exercise more caution in being quiet.

 

7. Cooking and BBQ’s

Balconies can also be appealing for people who want to cook or do BBQs outside too. Corporations can prohibit the use of these as they could cause fire hazards or disturb others. Others can reject it as the insurance policy might not permit it as well.

Overall, owners should verify with the corporation first before grilling anything. In some cases you could be rejected but in other cases you’re restricted in certain ways. You might need to use an electric BBQ or the grill has to be hooked directly to the building’s natural gas supply.

 

8. Keep These In Mind When Enjoying Your Condo

Living in a multi-family complex requires you to be more considerate of your surroundings than before as people are living in closer proximity to one another. It’s different than living in a detached house.

Be sure to note the rules and regulations that are put in place. They’re there to ensure the peace and enjoyment of everyone.

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