Most members are aware that we have had a very long and cold winter this year in Bulgaria, now the thaw has started we are starting to see a lot of burst pipes etc in apartment blocks, Yesterday checking the apartments that we manage we came across 4 apartment blocks that had water running in them. If you dont have a management company looking after your apartment I would suggest that you contact your complex to check all is ok

Good thinking Fletch some people wouldn't have given it a thought but since the weather's been so bad I do see what your saying

Actually, to be honest, this is a fair warning to all of us to check our homes. We often forget.

When buying in a block, verify that there is sufficient insulation on all pipes, not just in your apartment but for the whole building. Also check what happens if a crisis occurs.

For home owners who live here be they individuals or in an apartment block, keep looking at pipes, the roof, etc.

Basically, the same as you would do anywhere. Be vigilent to prevent damage :)

As many properties have basement areas, you must also check for water collecting in these areas. In some cases it might be a worthwhile idea to instal a submersible pump. The pump however must be installed to a depth that is below the incoming water and have sufficient height above in order that the float switch can automaticaly turn the thing on if water starts to gather.

It may also be wise to purchase a small petrol driven pump as when weather is bad so is the Electricity often being cut off at the slightest reason. At least a petrol pump will aide in releaseing some of the possible hoards of water that can gather in such areas.

Nice post and some good ides here to thank you all