With coronavirus (COVID-19) infecting millions of people worldwide, condo dwellers living in buildings with shared facilities and compact spaces are presented with an unprecedented set of challenges.
Vista Residences, one of the country’s leading leisure condominium developers, worked together with Globalland Property Management, Inc. to develop an extensive health and safety protocol to ensure the well-being of their community.
“Our residents, tenants, and employees’ health and safety are our utmost priority. We didn’t hesitate to tap into the expertise of Globalland Property Management to assist us in crafting and implementing precautionary measures to decrease the risk of disease transmission,” says Elizabeth M. Kalaw, chief operating officer, Vista Residences.
Following the recommendation of the Department of Health (DOH) and World Health Organization (WHO), physical and social distancing protocols is strictly observed. Vista Residences’ new guidelines on elevator etiquette suggest that only a maximum of four people can take the lift at a time to avoid overcrowding. Markers have been put in place to serve as guide for those lining up for the elevator. Elevator buttons are covered with plastics that are regularly disinfected and sanitized.
Sanitation and maintenance have always been a matter of great importance for Vista Residences, more so now than ever. Hand sanitizers and alcohol dispensers can be found on the counter by the entrance. Globalland Property Management is on top of making sure that the building is cleaned and sanitized at all times.
“Our maintenance team conduct a thorough and frequent cleaning and disinfection of the building premises every hour. We also make sure that our custodial staff are well-equipped and protected with masks and gloves to ensure their safety,” shares Engr. Louie G. Guillarte, Operations Head, Globalland Property.
Another best practice that’s being exercised in all Vista Residences properties is the No-Mask, No-Entry policy. Everyone entering the building will also undergo a mandatory alcohol spraying and thermal scanning for temperature check administered by the guard or the personnel assigned. Anyone detected with a high temperature of 37.5C and above is required to seek immediate health care within 24 hours. A medical certificate will be requested to ensure that health care has been sought. Guests who show signs or symptoms of cold, flu or the like will not be allowed entry.
New tenants, move-ins, visitors and guests must also fill out a Health Declaration Form and even submit a health certificate or quarantine clearance issued by the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), if the conditions apply.
Another cause of concern for a lot of people living in residential buildings is delivery for goods and services. Deliveries have been a lifeline for condo residents who are not physically able to buy their own food, groceries, and other essential supplies during this period.
Guillarte also noted that Vista Residences allow these services as long as it’s a no contact delivery. “We don’t ban deliveries because it’s a big help to our residents, but strict safety protocols apply to all delivery personnel. They are allowed up to the entrance only. The unit owner or tenant will have to personally pick up their deliveries.”
To further minimize social gatherings, shared amenities including but not limited to the function hall, fitness gym, swimming pool and lounge areas are still closed for operation until further notice.
Signs on the safety protocols are mounted within the properties to make sure that everyone is well informed and reminded of the guidelines.
Asked about how the residents and tenants have received the news on the new policy, Kalaw says, “We understand that these adjustments to the ‘new normal’ may not be easy for everyone, but we greatly appreciate the consideration and cooperation that we have received from the Vista Residences community.”
“Aside from following the new guidelines, we have seen and received reports that the residents are also doing their own initiatives, bringing paper towels or tissue and using it to touch common touch points like door handles, elevator buttons, and mailboxes; these might seem like simple gestures, but they contribute greatly in helping us curb the disease.”
Real estate and property development are one of the many sectors impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. Vista Residences promises to continue working on improving their services and policies not just for their residents, but also for the benefit of everyone.
“There is now a shift in property management and development. More than just providing top-notch amenities, excellent views, and convenient locations, it’s also our responsibility to do what we can to ensure the safety of the whole community. It’s one of the ways that we can help the country during this difficult time.”
Vista Residences is the vertical development arm of Vista Land. Vista Land posted net income growth of P11.6 billion for full year 2019 with consolidated revenues, which grew by 7 percent (P44.4 billion from P41.5 billion last year). Vista Land launched projects with an estimated value of P38.5 billion for 2019 composed of affordable housing and mid-rise buildings.
