The arrival of the monsoon season provides some relief from the gruelling summer months but brings a fresh set of challenges for homeowners, especially apartment residents. High-rises are generally safer from flood or water damage from the ground, but they certainly aren’t immune to concerns about dampness, seepage, mold, and the effects of time. If you’re an apartment owner, remembering some simple maintenance approaches can prepare your home for the rains, keep it safe, and make living in it more enjoyable.
Top 5 Monsoon Home Maintenance Tips for Apartment Owners
1. Check for Water Ingress Around Windows and Doors
Water can easily enter your apartment through small cracks around windows and doors. Check all window frames, sliding tracks, and door hinges from room to room. If you find any visible gaps, fill those gaps with weatherstripping (the process of sealing gaps) or silicone-based sealants. Weather sealing will not only mitigate water ingress but also enhance insulation and improve energy efficiency.
On well-developed residential projects like Sensorium Hinjawadi, the quality of the construction will, in general, provide better protection against water ingress issues. However, it’s always helpful to do your own checks and inspect common issues that may degrade your apartment.
2. Inspect Roofs and Ceilings for Leaks
For high-rise apartment owners and penthouse owners, roof inspections are essential. You should be aware of water staining, bubbling paint, and other discolouration on ceilings and walls. If you have a terrace, patio, or rooftop garden, check the drainage systems and whether the flooring has proper waterproofing.
Even highly regarded projects, such as Joyville Hadapsar, with management processes in place, bring in their own issues due to the quality of the construction. Regular maintenance of your home each and every year will always help in the long-term maintenance of your property during the monsoons, so arrange an inspection today.
3. Clean Balconies and Drainage Outlets
Balconies are strictly vertical living spaces. Because of this, they are particularly susceptible to rainfall. Ensure that the drainage outlets on balconies are clear of leaves, dirt, and other debris. Having stagnant water can cause mould and can also become a breeding area for mosquitoes. Store outdoor furniture and accessories in covered areas, or use waterproof covers to protect them from rust or damage.
You may also want to use balcony blinds or rain guards for added protection against rain, especially for units that directly receive lots of rainfall due to their orientation.
4. Service Your Electrical Systems
Moisture and electricity do not mix well, and the environment can create a significant problem during the monsoon season. A rise in humidity, during the monsoon, can compound the risk of a short circuit. Consider hiring an electrician to inspect your electrical panel, switchboards, and wiring to ensure there are no issues. Ensure your plug protectors are fitted correctly and use extension leads only in dry areas.
The apartments in developments like Sensorium Hinjawadi will have the most modern electrical safety features, but regular inspections once a season are still a good idea.
5. Monitor Indoor Humidity
Excessive moisture indoors can lead to mould, mildew, and a musty odour. If possible, a dehumidifier or silica gel sachets can be placed in enclosed storage. Open your windows slightly during dry parts of the day to help with ventilation. Avoid drying clothes indoors during heavy rainfall, unless you are using a drying rack with good ventilation. It’s also essential to check wooden furniture, like wardrobes and kitchen cabinets, for possible moisture. Applying a thin coat of wax or wood polish will help protect these areas.
While the monsoon can be a beautiful time, it also comes with its own set of headaches for homeowners. You can enjoy the rain without hassle with some preparation and regular maintenance. Whether you live in an upscale development like Sensorium Hinjawadi or a well-planned community such as Joyville Hadapsar, you will now be equipped to leverage the seasonal time while protecting your investment.
