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Camp Finances: Property Management

3 min read

Managing your property is a full-time job. A big part of the camp experience revolves around your buildings. Keeping up with routine maintenance can help you avoid more costly repairs down the road. Additionally, preparing your facilities ahead of time can avoid damage caused by weather hazards. All this adds up to more time focusing on the camp experience and less time chasing down expensive deferred maintenance.

Safety is a priority, too. And one of the most dangerous places in your camp is the kitchen. Our resources help you cook up a pound of prevention to keep your campers safe and your flap-jacks flowing.

All your efforts won’t go unrewarded. Parents of campers, as well as routine donors, recognize and reward good stewardship of camp resources. A little effort now can pay off big time down the trail.

5 Property Issues to Address ASAP

  1. Roofs – Your wooded retreat may be beautiful, but it’s a menace to roofs. To maximize longevity of your buildings’ roofs, keep them clear of debris. Make sure gutters are clear. Trim overhanging branches to avoid shingle damage during storms.

  2. Kitchens – Your kitchen ventilation system could be a ticking time bomb. Without routine maintenance, burger night could suddenly turn into a blazing inferno. Make sure your camp kitchen is a source of warm smiles and full bellies by keeping it clean and by performing routine inspections of all equipment.

  3. Pipes - Think your pipes won’t freeze? Think again. Every year, ministries are impacted by the damaging results of frozen water pipes. Keep the flood at bay by insulating pipes while the camp is in use or draining and winterizing pipes during the off season.

  4. Leaks – A small leak may seem like an annoyance, but ignoring it can lead to painful repairs later. Common leak spots are around windows and doors, or in bathrooms. Buying a few tubes of caulk and tightening loose connections can save you from major repairs down the road.

  5. Landscaping – Your camp’s natural beauty could attract vandals and thieves. Sprucing up your landscaping not only makes your camp look nice, but it can deter those with mischievous intent.

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