Building Systems
Uncertainty leads to rising costs
The biggest challenge for many real estate owners in 2024 will be finding affordable insurance coverage to protect their buildings.
Maintaining a safe property through winter
Residential property managers need to be extra vigilant this time of year to ensure their buildings are safe and properly maintained.
Multifamily leads uptake of EV charger funds
Multifamily landlords and condominium corporations have claimed more than a third of the funds the Canadian government has thus far allocated through its Zero Emissions Vehicle Infrastructure Program.
The changing Canadian vehicle market
The Canadian vehicle market is changing at a rapid pace, with the projected sales for electric vehicles (EVs) forecast to rise dramatically to align with Canada's goals.
Retrofitting with heat pumps
Since 2019, retrofitting with heat pumps has been rising in popularity among Canadian REITs and large residential landlords looking to invest in cleantech.
Cooling deemed key amenity for Ontario renters
Conceptually, the proposed rules establish air conditioning as a protected option that tenants cannot be prevented from obtaining rather than an essential that landlords would be compelled to supply.
Investing in the greater good
As the world seeks to eliminate harmful emissions that contribute to the climate crisis, the known benefits of decarbonization are piling up.
New oversight regime set for Ontario elevators
A new oversight regime for Ontario’s elevators and escalators will come into force on March 1, bringing shorter timelines for rectifying an extensive list of designated high-risk deficiencies.
Tax incentives key to driving housing innovation
As commercial finance conditions tighten, government tax incentives like SR&ED are becoming more important to the multifamily construction sector.
In the event of a tornado
Important steps and precautions for residential property managers in the build-up and aftermath of a tornado.
Why facilities must be proactive to improve cyber security
Research found cyber attackers increased their targeting of internet-connected OT devices by 2,204% between January and September 2021.
The health of your building matters
A new report from CfAD, in collaboration with QuadReal Property Group, points to the positive ways healthy building strategies can drive value in real estate.
The future of water in buildings is smart
Water creates levels of risk throughout all stages of a building’s life cycle and is a major cause of loss during and after construction.
Study finds elevator fans fail to eliminate pathogens
The confined space inside an elevator cabin creates a large risk of transmission despite standard ventilation.
Winter maintenance strategies that work
With experts predicting an earlier start to Canada’s cold season, the time to get started on winter maintenance is now.
Multifamily fire risk factors evolve over time
The combination of improved suppression and ignition source depletion has reduced the risk of fire-related fatalities within residential high-rises, and all dwellings in general, since 1980.
Private balconies are in demand
In the wake of COVID-19, multifamily housing developers are emphasizing outdoor amenity spaces more than ever with private balconies now at the top of many tenants' wish lists.