Mitigating Risks in Buildings: 4 Key Tasks for Condominium Associations

Safety in horizontal property buildings is a shared responsibility between condominium administrators and owners. Adhering to current regulations and maintaining facilities in optimal condition not only safeguards the infrastructure but also prevents legal and operational risks.

In Argentina, incidents such as the balcony collapse in San Telmo in 2016, which resulted in fatalities, and the fire in a Recoleta building in 2023, have underscored the critical importance of proactive building management.  

Condominium administrators and owners must adhere to a series of obligations to minimize risks and ensure a safe environment. Among the most significant, the following are noteworthy: 

Buenos Aires City Law No. 257 mandates that condominium associations conduct periodic inspections of facades and balconies. Depending on the building's age, it is obligatory to engage an engineer or architect to assess the integrity of railings and masonry, and to submit a certificate to the Governmental Control Agency (AGC). Non-compliance with this regulation can lead to serious accidents and legal penalties.  

Fire prevention is paramount in building management. Laws 6.116 and 6.017, along with Ordinance 40.473, regulate the verification, recharging, and maintenance of fire extinguishers and fixed prevention systems. Annual inspections and recharging of all extinguishers by specialized personnel are mandatory to ensure their proper operation in case of emergency.  

Elevators require mandatory monthly maintenance, with updated records on the City Government's platform.  Regular supervision ensures user safety and extends the equipment's operational lifespan.  

Current legislation in the City of Buenos Aires mandates that horizontal property buildings maintain insurance covering accidents, fires, collapses, and structural defects. This insurance protects owners, workers, and third parties, thereby minimizing financial and legal risks in the event of incidents.

At Hanseatica, we understand the complexities faced by condominium administrators and property owners. Our Comprehensive Condominium Policy offers extensive coverage designed to safeguard your building against various perils. Key coverages include:  

• Fire Damage to Building and Contents: Coverage against fire-related damages, including those caused by severe weather events.  

• Theft of Contents and Operating Funds: Coverage for the theft of property and operating funds, whether in transit or within the building premises.  

• Water Damage: Protection against damages resulting from leaks or system malfunctions. 

• And Additionally, Comprehensive General Liability: including protection against incidents arising from the use of elevators, freight lifts, boilers, water heaters, pipe bursts, renovations, and common areas such as the multi-purpose room. 

Furthermore, we provide 24-hour support, along with technical and legal advice, to ensure the efficient and secure management of your condominium association.  

Maintaining a secure building and ensuring regulatory compliance is paramount to protecting the assets and peace of mind of its residents. Possessing appropriate comprehensive insurance is a critical tool in this endeavor. At Hanseatica, we are committed to delivering tailored solutions for each condominium association, ensuring extensive coverage and dependable support.