<h2>The Best Time to Clean Windows: A Mild Spring Day</h2>Spring is a great time to clean windows—nights are no longer freezing, and sunlight doesn't overheat the glass. Ideally, windows should be washed twice a year to maintain clear views and good condition. In spring, you wash off road dust and dirt from winter; in fall, it’s pollen and summer residue.<h2>&nbsp;Window Cleaning Tips:</h2><ul><li>Time it right – Avoid rain, frost, and intense sunshine.</li><li>Gather your tools – You’ll need a microfiber cloth, a sponge or window cleaner, a bucket, and a high-quality squeegee.</li><li>Work from inside out – Start with inner panes and move outward. Exterior glass is usually dirtier.</li><li>Use lukewarm water and mild detergent – Change the water if it cools down or gets dirty.</li><li>Swipe in one direction – Horizontal or vertical strokes work best. Dry the squeegee after each pass.</li><li>Finish the details – Wipe frames and corners last, as they tend to gather the most grime.</li></ul><h4>&nbsp;Don’t Forget the Blinds! Blinds collect dust easily and are key to a clean window setup. Clean them regularly using dry tools:</h4><ul><li>Close the blinds and wipe with a dry microfiber cloth or duster—ideally vertically so dust doesn’t gather on cords.</li><li>Flip the blinds and wipe the other side if needed.</li><li>A vacuum brush attachment can be used gently.</li><li>For stains, use a damp cloth and ensure the blinds dry properly.</li></ul><h4>&nbsp;Cleaning Windows in an Apartment Building It might seem tricky, but with the right tools, it's manageable. Most apartment windows open inward or have a rotating mechanism to allow safe inside-out cleaning.</h4><ul><li>Use a long-handled window cleaner if the window doesn’t fully open.</li><li>Never stretch dangerously—if the outer surface isn’t safely reachable, check if the housing company offers assistance or recommends professional cleaners. You may even be eligible for a household tax deduction when using professionals.</li></ul><h4>&nbsp;Does Window Cleaning Belong in Moving-Out Cleaning? Yes! Window cleaning is a part of proper move-out cleaning. The only exception is winter—if weather conditions make cleaning unsafe or impossible, outer windows don’t need to be washed. Whether renting or owning, it’s good practice to leave the home tidy for the next resident. In rental situations, unclean windows could lead to cleaning fees being deducted from your deposit.</h4>&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Window cleaning is easy with these tips

YH Kodit’s properties are insured against damage, but it's important for residents to understand that in case of events like a fire or water damage, the building’s insurance only covers the apartment's structures and fixed fixtures. To cover personal belongings, the resident must have their own home insurance. Additionally, the building's insurance does not compensate for water damage caused by personal items. For instance, damage resulting from a broken aquarium, waterbed, or similar item is only covered by the resident’s own insurance policy.<a href="https://www.yhkodit.fi/blog/kotivakuutus ">Read more about home insurance.</a>&nbsp;<h2>What Happens After a Damage Report?</h2>Once you've submitted a damage report, the process is handled as follows:<ol><li>Damage Assessment: An assessment will be carried out by the insurance company or a YH Kodit partner.</li><li>Damage Report: A report is created and sent to the building's insurance provider.</li><li>Compensation Decision: The insurance company decides whether the damage is covered. Only then can preparatory work (e.g., demolition or drying) begin.</li><li>Repair Planning: A cost estimate is prepared and, if necessary, repair work is put out to tender depending on the scale of the repairs.</li><li>Repairs: The property is restored to its original condition before the damage.</li></ol>&nbsp;<h2>What if I Can’t Stay in My Apartment Due to Damage?</h2>In cases where an accident makes the apartment uninhabitable or living there difficult, your home insurance typically includes coverage for temporary relocation. For example, this applies if a main water pipe breaks.<h2>&nbsp;</h2><h2>Can I Get Rent Compensation During Repairs?</h2>If you do not have home insurance and the damage was not caused by you, you can contact YH Kodit to request rent compensation or temporary housing. Please note that YH Kodit is not obligated to provide alternate housing, but they will try to arrange it if possible.Rent compensation will be paid once all necessary information—such as electricity usage data—has been received from the contractor.If YH Kodit arranges a temporary apartment, you won’t receive separate rent compensation. If your home insurance covers a temporary apartment, rent compensation will only cover the difference in rental costs. If the temporary rent is higher, your insurance will pay the difference.&nbsp;<h2>How to Apply for Rent Compensation</h2>Submit your application to YH Kodit by email. Be sure to include:<ul><li>The date the damage occurred</li><li>The date repair work was completed</li><li>The affected areas of the apartment that couldn’t be used</li><li>Your bank account number for the compensation payment</li></ul>

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What to do if an accident happens in the apartment?

A Day in the Life of a Maintenance Worker This blog explores a typical workday from a maintenance worker’s perspective: what the job entails, how different situations are handled, and the kinds of challenges and successes encountered. We interviewed Tommi Kiikka from Lännen Kiinteistöpalvelut to gain insight into his daily routine and the demands of the role.🌅 Starting the Day Tommi begins his day at 7:00 a.m., taking care of the property’s cleanliness by emptying trash bins and picking up litter around the building. By 9:00 a.m., he starts scheduled maintenance tasks indoors. He usually checks upcoming jobs the day before and contacts residents to arrange appointments. In the morning, he handles jobs that don’t require entering homes, like updating nameplates.🍽️ Afternoon &amp; Emergencies After lunch, Tommi continues with scheduled repairs, although emergencies like unlocking doors can override other plans. His workday ends at 4:00 p.m.😊 Job Satisfaction Tommi enjoys challenging himself and appreciates positive feedback from residents. Helping people with home issues brings him fulfillment.⚠️ Biggest Challenges Urgent cases like water damage can disrupt the day’s schedule. Missing tools at other sites or pest issues (like bedbugs) also pose difficulties.🔧 Common Maintenance Tasks Daily jobs often include fixing leaking faucets, unclogging drains, repairing toilets, and servicing cold radiators.🤯 Most Unusual Job Tommi recalls having to dismantle a makeshift apartment someone built in a storage cage. Eviction cases are another unusual aspect of his job.🚿 Prevention Tips for Residents He advises residents not to pour food waste down the sink to avoid blockages. For cleaning drains, boiling water and dish soap can help.🔑 Making the Job Easier Flexible scheduling would speed up problem-solving. Tommi mentions that more freedom to use master keys would be helpful, especially when residents don’t answer calls or aren’t home.🤝 Collaboration with YH Kodit Tommi values the smooth cooperation with YH Kodit’s technical property managers, which makes his work much easier. He finds the job varied, rewarding, and meaningful thanks to satisfied customers.&nbsp;

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What is a maintenance worker's workday like?

As barbecue season kicks off, many residents enjoy preparing meals outdoors. Grilling is a great way to spend time with family, friends, and neighbors. At YH Homes, residents are allowed to grill on their private balconies, residential yards, and shared green spaces. However, safety guidelines and consideration for others must always be observed.&nbsp;<h2>Is Grilling on the Balcony Allowed?</h2>Yes, balcony grilling is permitted under certain conditions. Electric grills are generally allowed and recommended. Residents of YH Homes may enjoy grilling on balconies, yards, and shared green areas—but only with electric grills. It's essential to follow safety instructions and be mindful of other residents to ensure a pleasant and safe experience for all.&nbsp;<h3>Laws and Balcony Grilling</h3>In Finland, there is no law that directly prohibits grilling on balconies. Balconies are considered under the resident’s control, and normal activities like dining and grilling are allowed. However, you must follow housing company rules and take safety considerations into account.&nbsp;<h3>Tips for Safe Balcony Grilling</h3><ul><li>Use an electric grill – It’s the safest option, with minimal fire risk and easy control.</li><li>Place the grill safely – On a stable, non-flammable surface, away from flammable materials.</li><li>Keep fire safety tools nearby – A fire blanket or extinguisher should be within easy reach.</li><li>Be considerate of neighbors – Keep smoke and odors to a minimum.</li></ul>Electric grilling on a balcony can be enjoyable and safe when you follow the rules and respect others. Always check your housing company’s rules before you start grilling.&nbsp;<h2>What Type of Grill Can You Use?</h2>On the Balcony:Only electric grills are permitted. They are safe, easy to use, and don’t produce excessive smoke—making them suitable for densely populated buildings.In Residential Yards:In addition to electric grills, gas grills are allowed. Use extra caution:<ul><li>Keep the grill far from flammable materials and canopies.</li><li>Ensure it’s on a stable surface.</li><li>Check that gas cylinders are properly attached and hoses connected correctly.</li></ul>Prohibited:<ul><li>Charcoal grills and open fires are strictly forbidden.</li><li>Disposable grills are also banned due to high fire risk and unstable structure.</li></ul>&nbsp;<h2>Fire Safety Reminders</h2><ul><li>Keep a fire extinguisher or blanket nearby. Never use water on grease fires—use a lid or blanket to smother flames.</li><li>If using gas grills:</li><li>A maximum of 25 kg of LPG may be stored inside an apartment, if it doesn't compromise safety.</li><li>An additional 50 kg may be stored in a separate storage room.</li><li>Store cylinders away from heat sources or direct sunlight.</li><li>Flammable items must not be kept in basement storage units.</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>During Grilling</h3><ul><li>Ensure adequate ventilation—especially if the balcony is glazed.</li><li>Check grill condition before use:<ul><li>Electric: cord should be intact</li><li>Gas: cylinder securely attached and hose properly connected</li></ul></li><li>Place the grill on a stable surface to prevent tipping</li><li>Never leave the grill unattended—especially with kids or pets around</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>After Grilling</h3><ul><li>Sort waste properly:<ul><li>Aluminum trays → metal recycling</li><li>Vegetable peels → bio-waste</li><li>Clean plastic packaging → plastic recycling</li></ul></li><li>Clean the grill regularly to remove grease and debris that may cause fire.</li></ul>&nbsp;If you're interested in living in Tampere or Turku, check out our <a href="https://www.yhkodit.fi/apartments?application_type=rental&amp;region=PIR&amp;order_by=-publication&amp;limit=12&amp;offset=0">apartment listings</a> and explore available rental properties in those cities!

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Is it allowed to grill on the balcony?

<h3>Maintenance of the Building Register:</h3>Maintaining the building register is an important part of the maintenance company’s duties. Doors will only be opened for residents who are officially registered at the address. Door opening services are chargeable. This policy ensures safety within the housing company’s premises. Please remember to notify the maintenance company of the names of people moving in or out during a relocation.&nbsp;<h3>Heating System Maintenance:</h3>The maintenance company is responsible for the functionality and temperature control of the heating system. Residents are encouraged to contact the company if they suspect radiator malfunction or feel drafts in their apartment. The target indoor temperature is maintained at 20°C to ensure comfortable living conditions.&nbsp;<h3>Repairs and Maintenance:</h3>Minor repairs and adjustments are carried out as needed by the maintenance company. Larger repair work will be performed upon a separate work order. If you notice any faults or deficiencies in your apartment, the building, or the yard, please submit a fault report. This can be easily done through the website: <a href="https://oma.yhkodit.fi/">oma.yhkodit.fi</a>&nbsp;<h3>Cleaning Services:</h3>Common areas are cleaned regularly, 2–3 times a week. In spring, a more thorough cleaning is done, including sand removal, dust control, and litter cleanup. Playground equipment and outdoor furniture are also put back in place, and any yard holes are filled ahead of summer.&nbsp;<h3>Summer Maintenance:</h3>During summer, green space services handle the maintenance of shared yards. This includes fertilizing, weed removal, and trimming of shrubs and hedgerows. Lawn mowing is the responsibility of the maintenance company. If your apartment includes a private yard, its care is your responsibility.&nbsp;<h3>Autumn Maintenance:</h3>In autumn, the maintenance company is responsible for removing leaves from shared areas, placing snow marker poles, and storing swings and outdoor furniture for the winter.&nbsp;<h3>Winter Maintenance:</h3>During winter, the maintenance company handles snow removal and anti-slip measures. After snowfall, areas are plowed, and main walkways and parking areas are sanded to ensure safe movement.&nbsp;<h3>Summary:</h3>The responsibilities of the maintenance company in a housing company are diverse and essential for both resident satisfaction and property upkeep. Regular maintenance ensures smooth daily life and keeps the environment pleasant and functional year-round.

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What is the role of the maintenance company, and what are its responsibilities in a housing company?

On this page, you’ll find up-to-date information about applying for an apartment, as well as useful details about rental housing and right-of-occupancy (ASO) housing.

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