Spring is a critical period for multi-apartment building management, according to AS “Civinity Grupa.” Following the winter season, which traditionally serves as the greatest test of a building’s technical condition, the effects of weather and previously accumulated problems become apparent. Timely action from both property managers and apartment owners is particularly important at this time.
“Winter itself doesn’t create problems – it reveals what hasn’t been addressed in time,” said Diāna Frīdenberga, a member of the board at AS “Civinity Grupa.” “spring is a time not only to address the consequences but also to make decisions about the future – how to improve the building’s condition and avoid similar situations in the future,” Frīdenberga emphasized, noting that spring is a time for both cleanup and planning.
Following snowmelt and temperature fluctuations, damage is most frequently observed to roofs, facades, drainage systems, and common areas. Snow loads, ice formation, and the effects of moisture can create cracks, damage waterproofing, or cause water leaks.
Attention should also be paid to the area around the building – walkways, children’s playgrounds, fences, and lighting. Mechanical damage or wear and tear that occurred during the winter often becomes visible in the spring. AS “Civinity Grupa” provides management that includes regular technical inspections, repair work planning and supervision, and maintenance of common areas. This allows for the timely identification of risks and prevention of larger problems in the future.
A professional property manager in the spring provides not only a visual inspection but also a systematic assessment of the building’s technical condition. This includes checking the roof, facade, and balconies, diagnosing engineering systems, inspecting drainage and rainwater drainage systems, and preparing a plan for necessary repairs.
“Civinity Grupa” also offers the development of long-term and annual maintenance plans, which help apartment owners effectively plan their finances and preserve property value. As Frīdenberga notes, this is particularly important in Latvia, where a large portion of the housing stock is aging and requires systematic renovation. “The most important thing is not to miss the moment when the problem can still be solved relatively simply. The longer we postpone decisions, the more expensive the repairs become.”
The involvement of apartment owners is also crucial. Residents make decisions about repairs, investments, and the creation of reserves. Housing associations or active home communities can initiate technical inspections, encourage the creation of repair funds, make decisions about renovation or energy efficiency improvements, and organize landscaping.
“It is important that the initiative often begins with an understanding of the risks. For example, damage to common property affects not only individual apartment units but the entire building – stairwells, roofs, attics, and the surrounding area. These elements are used daily and are particularly susceptible to wear and tear or damage,” Frīdenberga reminded.
According to web search results, Civinity Group is one of the largest building maintenance service providers and developers of engineering and technological solutions in the Baltics and the United Kingdom, bringing together more than 30 companies across the PropTech, facility management, and engineering sectors. In 2023, the group achieved a consolidated turnover of 87.7 million euros, a 23% increase compared to 2022. The group’s consolidated pre-tax profit for the period was 3.54 million euros (1.07 million euros in 2022), and net profit was 2.57 million euros (0.78 million euros in 2021). Civinity also recently launched a tender for up to 350 electric vehicles, marking one of the largest fleet-greening projects in Lithuania.
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