VDA COVID-19 Recommendations:

April 16, 2020

VDA understands that these can be confusing and difficult times to navigate through. We want to make sure that you know that VDA is here to help you and your team get through this.

Here are a few industry concerns that could affect your Building’s operation and/or operational costs that we would like to bring to your attention:

Be very cautious about renegotiating or signing amendments to your Maintenance Agreement: There are ways to do this that protect your interest and that will not put you at a disadvantage down the road. In our experience, when Maintenance Agreements are authored by elevator companies, they are typically written in their favor.

Beware of Contract Extensions: During situations like this, it’s not uncommon for a contractor to offer a contract extension. Be cautious to understand what it is you are being asked to sign; for what you sign today, you may have to live with for a long time to come.

There is a proper protocol that should be followed when shutting down any elevator or escalator for an extended period of time: Simply shutting it off at the disconnect and just leaving it out of service is not a good plan and over time could damage your unit unnecessarily.

Be cautious of additional billing: Before paying a bill, check it carefully to be sure that it is valid per the terms of your Maintenance Agreement.

Get the maintenance you paid for: It’s not uncommon for elevator companies to reduce work hours for all field personnel during an occurrence like this. We would suggest you monitor and document the maintenance that is being performed per the terms of your existing Maintenance Agreement.

These are just a few of the recent trends we are seeing in the industry.

VDA can help you navigate through these issues.

VDA has more than 180 professionals nationally available to help you through this situation… Please contact us and we will be pleased to help you and your team.