COVID-19 – Southwest Community | Southwest Properties

September 17th, 2021

Southwest Properties COVID-19 Immunization Policy

Southwest Properties is committed to maintaining a safe work environment and protecting our employees, customers, and partners from COVID-19.

We have worked diligently over the past number of weeks developing a Covid-19 Immunization Policy. Our policy will further protect employees and customers from COVID-19 by preventing transmission and decreasing risks of an outbreak in our residential buildings, offices, job sites, and the places we conduct business. Vaccinations are recognized as a cornerstone for preventing or decreasing the effects of COVID-19, and as such the following protocols will be put in place:

For our Employees: Employees are required to submit a Covid-19 Immunization Status Form, and proof of immunization status. Southwest reserves the right to put additional safety protocols in place for employees who are not vaccinated.

For our Business Partners and Visitors: As part of this policy, we are providing an opportunity for our business partners and visitors to provide proof of their Covid-19 Immunization record. Additional safety protocols will be implemented at the discretion of Southwest for those who are not confirmed as fully vaccinated, and for those who do not wish to share their immunization status. These additional safety protocols will include but are not limited to including daily testing, and mask wearing [where applicable].

The Southwest Covid-19 Immunization Policy will remain in effect as required to ensure the health and safety of employees and other third parties. This policy will be revoked or amended as necessary, based on applicable public health advice. For business partners, contractors and office guests, protocols will go into effect on September 17^th, 2021.

If you would like additional information on the Covid-19 Vaccination, please visit the Government of Nova Scotia’s Website. For additional information on our protocols and what this will mean for your team, please see attached PDF’s.

May 16, 2020

On Friday, May 15th Dr. Robert Strang, chief medical officer of health, announced that Nova Scotians will be able to visit one other household of “immediate” family. He stated that two immediate households can come together without physical distancing. These families must agree that visiting is mutually exclusive to minimize risk of COVID-19 spread. He also highlighted that in choosing a household to connect with, families should consider three factors - age, occupation, health condition of all members of that household. On Friday, May 15th Dr. Robert Strang, chief medical officer of health, announced that Nova Scotians will be able to visit one other household of “immediate” family. He stated that two immediate households can come together without physical distancing. These families must agree that visiting is mutually exclusive to minimize risk of COVID-19 spread. He also highlighted that in choosing a household to connect with, families should consider three factors - age, occupation, health condition of all members of that household.
We understand that connecting with family and friends is important for our resident’s mental health. With this new announcement we have made the decision to ease our visiting restrictions at the buildings. For the health and safety of all residents and employees we ask that you respect the government guidelines and restrict any visitors to only the immediate family you have identified within your “bubble”. We understand that connecting with family and friends is important for our resident’s mental health. With this new announcement we have made the decision to ease our visiting restrictions at the buildings. For the health and safety of all residents and employees we ask that you respect the government guidelines and restrict any visitors to only the immediate family you have identified within your “bubble”.

Other than those permitted in your family bubble, our no visitor policy will remain in effect to prevent unnecessary visits and social gatherings.The building delivery policies will also continue. All food & grocery deliveries must be met at the door and parcel delivery instructions must note “no signature required”. Delivery personnel cannot enter the building and our in-suite maintenance visits are only for emergency situations. Other than those permitted in your family bubble, our no visitor policy will remain in effect to prevent unnecessary visits and social gatherings.The building delivery policies will also continue. All food & grocery deliveries must be met at the door and parcel delivery instructions must note “no signature required”. Delivery personnel cannot enter the building and our in-suite maintenance visits are only for emergency situations.
The easing of restrictions is a signal that Nova Scotia is headed in the right direction.We appreciate that Southwest residents have been following our no visitor policy.To date, Southwest residents and employees have been safe through this pandemic and it is all our responsibility to respect our neighbours and families by continuing to remain vigilant in limiting our movements and adhering to the advice of our authorities. The easing of restrictions is a signal that Nova Scotia is headed in the right direction.We appreciate that Southwest residents have been following our no visitor policy.To date, Southwest residents and employees have been safe through this pandemic and it is all our responsibility to respect our neighbours and families by continuing to remain vigilant in limiting our movements and adhering to the advice of our authorities.

Click poster to enlarge >

Dear Resident,
The last few months have certainly been a journey but is appears that our efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within Nova Scotia have been positive.

It was fun to hear about the creative ways we honoured our mothers last weekend for Mother’s Day. From phone calls to Zoom calls or window waves to car parades, mothers everywhere were treated. And now this weekend we celebrate the Victoria Day long weekend. Traditionally for many this holiday weekend represents the first camping trip of the season, opening up cottages or having family gatherings. These are activities being discouraged this year. Our lives continue to remain altered and we need to remain vigilant in limiting our movements and adhering to the advice of our authorities.
We want to take this opportunity to remind everyone to continue to follow government agencies advice and our building procedures as outlined below:

SOCIAL DISTANCING: Gathering limits and social distancing of two metres (six feet) of each other continues to be enforced by our province. Our employees are aware of social distancing and hygiene expectations at work and outside their working hours.
CLEANING: Our heightened cleaning and disinfecting practices in high traffic areas and touch zones continue for the health and safety of our residents. This includes door handles, elevator buttons, common spaces such as laundry rooms and entrance lobbies.

MAINTENANCE: Only in-suite emergency maintenance are being performed. All other maintenance requests are being scheduled for another time. Our maintenance team continue to focus on building common areas and outdoor spaces.
NO VISITORS & DELIVERIES: This policy continues to receive positive feedback from our residents. Permitted visits are for those providing an essential service or dropping off items to high risk, isolating and vulnerable residents. Building delivery policies remain in effect. All food & grocery deliveries must be met at the door and parcel delivery instructions must note “no signature required”. Delivery personnel cannot enter the building. Southwest has suspended vacant unit showings and all rentals take place on-line.
ELEVATORS & STAIRCASES: Buildings with elevators have suggested capacity limits to adhere with social distancing practices. Alternatively, residents can option to take the stairs if they are able. The provision of tissues and garbage bins for a ‘touch & toss’ option in elevators has been well received.
SOCIAL SPACES: All social spaces, gyms, pools & hot tubs and common terraces remain closed. Southwest is working on our residential ‘reopening’ procedures for when the timing is right and the public health authority dictates. With parks and trails now open, we encourage residents to opt to engage in outdoor activities or participate in the many online exercise and entertainment offerings.

Our weather is slowly warming up for us ! With that in mind we have partnered with THORNBLOOM to bring you a facebook live lunch and learn eventon Monday, May 18^that Noon. Design stylists from Thornbloom - The Inspired Home will discuss and show right sized apartment balcony furniture and offer our residents suggestions on how to accessorize living spaces.
Inside or outside, let’s make staying close to home this summer a beautiful thing ! facebook.com/SouthwestHFX

May 1, 2020

Thank you to so many residents who have been attending our virtual events. It has been a wonderful way to connect socially throughout our residential portfolio.

To date we have had a wine appreciation session with Bishop’s Cellar, created classic cocktails with the Clever Barkeep, exercised with R Studiosand received some helpful tips on how to manage our dog’s stress during COVID-19 from Dogtopia.

For those of you who were unable to attend the pet seminar this week you can watch the recorded session HERE. As well,view this great workout you can do at home with your dog HERE.

We continue to develop more virtual programming. If you have any feedback or suggestions please send them along to customer.experience@southwest.ca

We would like to invite you to participate in the next two planned activities:
VIRTUAL RECIPE SHARE: With a large increase in time spent at home, many of us have been cooking more than ever before! Now is the perfect time to create a virtual recipe box with recipes from our entire Southwest community. Send in your favorite recipes, these should be quick, easy and without rare ingredients. Actually, the best one is the one you know in your head and can type right now. We’ll compile and post on our community page for everyone to see and enjoy. Please submit your recipes to customer.experience@southwest.ca

PLANT CARE: Thursday, May 7th at 6:30 pm. Join the knowledgeable staff from Audrey’s Little Shop of Plants as they host a complimentary plant care workshop. Receive basic plant care tips and suggestions on finding the perfect plants that will thrive, give colour and style to your space. This is now on instagram live > HERE

Finally, don’t forget about our Resident Rewards program ! There are so many local business we have partnered with that are offering online shopping & events, gift card purchases and provide deliveries. Visit https://southwest.ca/resident-rewardsto review the many deals and discounts.

We’d like to highlight two new offers:
I Heart Bikes would like to extend a special offer for all Southwest Residents. Starting this Sunday I Heart Bikes will be offering While-You-Wait Bike Service from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. The Basic Service package ($30 plus tax) the Spring Fling includes a drive train scrub, tire pump, chain lube and free slushie. Southwest Residents will receive a complimentary bike bell with their first service. Customers can phone ahead to make an appointment or stop by their Waterfront Shop. To make an appointment or for more information about our bike service please send an email at info@iheartbikeshfx.com.

Evolve Fitness is offering residents a 3 free days of virtual classes next Monday to Wednesday. Evolve offers a number of virtual bootcamps, cardio, yoga and classes for 50+ daily. If you are interested in attending any of these virtual classes please email admin@evolvefitnessltd.com Don’t forget to mention you are a Southwest Resident to access this offer.

We look forward to your future participation. All social events can be found below.

It has been just over one month since a state of emergency was declared for Nova Scotia and our daily lives were altered. As if that was not enough, last weekend our beautiful province experienced a tragic incident affecting many families and the spirit of all Canadians. Our condolences go out to those who may have been impacted personally or emotionally.

At this time we would also like to express our gratitude to those working within the health care system or providing essential services. No matter what your situation may be – working or being at home - we are thinking of you.

Amidst all of this turmoil, many residents have been so kind to email their appreciation of our sanitization procedures, safety measures and no visitors policy. Thank you for the positive feedback and to adhering to the no visitors policy. Everyone’s efforts will make a difference.
Resident and employee safety remains our priority. All employees are aware of social distancing and hygiene expectations at work and outside their working hours. Our role is to continue with our established safety procedures and high touch zone cleaning.

We have not had a staff member with a positive COVID-19 case, nor any connection to one that we are aware, but we have a procedure in place should we be notified. Resident privacy and confidentiality is our responsibility and personal information would never be conveyed by us as it falls under public health.

Should we have an employee within your building test positive, residents will be notified that “a case” has been identified and the employee is off work recovering. We have a sanitization process that will take place and our safety and cleaning measures will continue. Please be assured that operational steps are in place and we will act quickly to keep you informed.

On a fun note, thank you to the many residents who have been joining our online events. Customer experience continues to line-up weekly events to educate, entertain and keep us fit ! To date we have had a creativity contest, two cocktail hours and a few fitness sessions. We will continue to send posters and email reminders and post to our website and social channels.

Continue to be kind to one another and stay home.

UPCOMING EVENTS

BARRE CLASS WITH RSTUDIOS - Saturday, April 25th at 10:00 am
Sculpt and tone the body from head to toe in this perfect blend of pilates, dance and movement. A graceful, dynamic and fun workout curated to a carefully selected playlist that will leave you feeling invigorated and elongated. Barre classes are done mostly standing, incorporates an overload of delicious leg work, abs and upper body. Grab a chair for support and some hand weights (soup cans work well!)
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87139371902
REDUCE PET STRESS: Wednesday, April 29th at 6:30 pm

Join Canine Behavioralist Jesse Ridgley from Dogtopia as he explains the small things that can be done to help reduce the stress on your pets within the comfort of your home.
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89785515053
Dogtopiais offering free daycare for first responders and frontline workers until NS lifts the state of emergency. For all other Southwest residents as part of resident rewards the first day is always free! For more information or to schedule your daycare please reach out to Dogtopia at 902-907-5364.
PLANT CARE: Thursday, May 7th at 6:30 pm

Join the knowledgeable staff from Audrey’s Little Shop of Plants as they host a complimentary plant care workshop. Receive basic plant care tips and suggestions on finding the perfect plants that will thrive, give colour and style to your space.
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89410169434

April 9, 2020

As a community we are receiving very strong messages from our Nova Scotia Premier and Chief Medical Officer about the importance of social distancing, limiting gatherings, frequent hand-washing and most importantly – staying at home.

If people are doing their part and following the experts’ advice there is no reason to be inviting guests into your home. To support this recommendation, starting today Southwest Properties will be implementing a “no visitors” policy in all residential buildings.
A visit is only permitted for those who may be providing an essential service or dropping off items to high risk, isolating and vulnerable residents. Building delivery policies remain in effect. All food & grocery deliveries must be met at the door and parcel delivery instructions must note “no signature required”. Delivery personnel cannot enter the building.

The health, safety and wellness of our residents and staff continues to be of upmost importance to us. The ‘no visitors’ policy is another measure to assist in preventing the spread of COVID in the community. We thank you in advance for complying with this policy.

We would also like to highlight:
BUILDING ACCESS & SECURITY TIPS:
Our resident and building security is always very important. Do not allow building access to anyone other than those living within your suite or if you are in the essential services category. This applies to when entering the building or through the intercom system. Also, if you have a vehicle on-site ensure it is locked at all times and does not contain unnecessary items that may prompt theft.

IN SUITE GARBAGE:
This week Halifax Water reported that disposal wipes, gloves and masks are being flushed down the toilet. These items belong in the garbage. They noted that flushing can clog residential sewer lines and poses a potential health risk.

STAYING ACTIVE & HEALTHY:
It is important for residents to remain physically and mentally healthy at this time. Customer Experience has developed a Southwest Top Ten list of suggestions to keep you active. View the list HERE > And don’t forget to join our online Resident Social events coming up this weekend. It’s a wonderful way for us to remain connected during COVID. Follow our events at https://www.facebook.com/SouthwestHFX

We hope everyone will be kind to one another and stay home this Easter long weekend.

March 27, 2020

You have been hearing from us a lot over the last two weeks and we’re committed to using this method and other communication channels to connect with you and keep you updated.

We are so proud of the resilience of our residents and want to thank those who have acknowledged our site staff on their responsiveness, communications, and cleaning efforts.

The health, safety and wellness of our residents and staff continues to be of upmost importance to us. Since the state of emergency declaration by the province on Sunday, March 22^nd, even more COVID-19 safety measures were implemented throughout our portfolio:

ELEVATORS & STAIRCASES: Buildings with elevators have suggested capacity limits to adhere with social distancing practices. Alternatively, residents have the option to take the stairs if they are able. Additionally, we are providing tissues and garbage bins for a ‘touch & toss’ option. Tissues can be used for call buttons and staircase handles, then tossed into garbage receptacles provided.

LAUNDRY ROOMS: Southwest cleaning practices and laundry room tips have been posted within these spaces.

SOCIAL DISTANCING: Practicing social distancing of two metres (six feet) of each other continues to be enforced by our province and within our buildings. Please remember this when waiting for elevators and passing through lobbies.

PETS: Please do not physically pat passing pups in our pet friendly buildings as it infringes on social distancing practices. Instead have fun and use the opportunity to use social sharing by taking a photo of a passing pup – post and share @southwesthfx #SeeAPup #PostAPup

MAIN ENTRANCE: In the interest of social distancing, when going for a walk, taking your dog out or running a quick errand, select an alternative entrance or exit where feasible. This will also spread-out traffic and reduce activity in the lobby where many food and parcel deliveries are being managed.

DELIVERIES: As a reminder, all food & grocery deliveries must be met at the door. Delivery personnel cannot enter the building. Residents must also change their parcel delivery instructions to note “no signature required”.

RENT: We understand that our residents, as are all Canadians, are being affected by COVID-19. We also know that many are experiencing work interruptions and salary cuts. Government relief plans and programs to support Canadians continue to unfold, so residents should monitor websites outlining support programs. https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan.html

Our online rental payment system continues to be the best method for paying rent. If you currently do not pay online, please call 902.423.4634 or email accountsreceivable@southwest.ca Our regular practice of working with residents with respect to individual situations will continue.

Once again, we want to take this opportunity to remind residents to continue with social distancing and follow the advice of our provincial and federal agencies on health, safety and finances. ( Links provided below)

Thank you for your attention to our regular email messages and signage within our buildings. Please know that we continue to be committed to providing you with customer communications and service in these challenging times.

Southwest Community - Continue to stay safe.

COVID-19 RESIDENT UPDATE
There is no doubt that we are experiencing unprecedented times and things continue to evolve and change daily. The wellbeing of our residents and staff continues to be of upmost importance to us at Southwest Properties. Although it is not business as usual, our residential services team remains committed to servicing residents. Our teams have been working hard to ensure we maintain our high standards of cleaning practices in high traffic areas and touch zones to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

We wanted to take this opportunity to remind residents to continue to practice social distancing. Social distancing is defined by the NS Public Health Authority as “limiting your contact with other people – stay about 2 metres (6 feet) apart.”

To help you navigate through these unprecedented times we have included a fact sheet from the Public Health Agency of Canada. We hope this helps you better understand some of the new terms being used over the past several weeks.

Below are links to site that you may find useful:

If you are confined to your unit for any reason there is help being offered throughout our community. Online ordering for groceries is available through many providers including Atlantic Superstore, Sobey’s and Pete’s.

Please know that you are not in this alone and that we are here to assist you. If you have any questions or concerns please reach out and we will do our best to find assistance.

To help occupy your time why not visit The Halifax Public Library online? There is access and links to many e-books, audio books and video tutorials that you may find entertaining or useful.

NS Public Health Authority recommends going for a walk, riding your bike or sitting on your balcony if no symptoms ( while keeping your distance from others ).

We will continue to communicate with you via email and have a dedicated community page on our website for updates. If you have seen or heard of anything out there that might be worth sharing with our community, please let us know.

We thought we would share this positive story of caring in the community that appeared in the Globe & Mail >
For now, stay safe and we’ll get through this.
Link here for definitions of self-monitoring, self-isolation and isolation.

COVID-19 RESIDENT UPDATE
Further to our resident update of March 12^th, Southwest Properties is implementing additional business practice measures as it relates to COVID-19.

All residents should follow the published advice of the public health officials.

Federal and provincial health officials continue to urge all Canadians to increase handwashing and to practice social distancing of two metres ( 6 feet ), which includes avoiding crowded places and non-essential gatherings.

The Province of Nova Scotia, under the authority of the Health Protection Act, requires anyone who has travelled outside Canada to self-isolate for 14 days upon return, even if you are symptom-free.

NEW BUILDING PROCEDURES

SOCIAL DISTANCING & BUILDING VISITORS: All social spaces, gyms, pools & hot tubs areclosed until further notice and residents must practice social distancing at all times. We encourage residents to limit visitors and opt to engage in outdoor activities. Southwest has suspended vacant unit showings. All rentals will take place on-line.

DELIVERIES: Food deliveries must be accepted by residents at the front door. We are implementing parcel delivery to your door and Concierge will schedule these deliveries with residents.

ISOLATION: Any resident who has returned from international travel must self-isolate in their suite for 14-days – even if they are not showing symptoms. Consider isolation if you have travelled from BC, Alberta, Ontario or Quebec.

CLEANING: We have increased our high standards of cleaning practices in high traffic areas and touch zones. This includes door handles, elevator buttons, common spaces such as laundry rooms and entrance lobbies.

MAINTENANCE: Only in-suite emergency maintenance will be performed. All other maintenance requests will be scheduled for another time. Our maintenance team will be focused on common areas and out door spaces.

SOUTHWEST OFFICE & SITE STAFF: Southwest Properties office at Lower Water Street will be closed to the public until further notice. Business will be operating through online services, email and telephone. Our building staff will continue to be on-site and performing duties in the common areas.

Continue to monitor news and official government websites.

COVID-19 RESIDENT UPDATE
Southwest Properties continues to monitor the ongoing situation involving the coronavirus, now referred to as COVID-19. We are encouraging staff and residents to follow the published advice of the Nova Scotia provincial website created in partnership with the Provincial and Canadian public health officials.

Southwest has an established committee that manages procedures and communications with respect to the health and welfare of our employees and residents.

We are encouraging all staff and residents to practice suggested hygiene measures that are performed during cold and flu season.
People should:

Wash hands frequently with soap and water and use the hand sanitizer stations provided within the residential buildings and offices.
Be respectful if you cough or sneeze by using a tissue or your elbow to contain.
Limit your contact with others when you are sick.
Be respectful of personal space of others and when greeting.
Prevent or limit touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Increase your cleaning practices within your suite, office and surroundings - including taps, doorknobs and counter tops.

What Southwest is doing at Residential Buildings

We have increased our high standards of cleaning and maintenance practices in high traffic areas and touch zones. This includes door handles, elevator buttons, social rooms and common spaces such as laundry rooms, gyms, hot tubs and swimming pools.
We have posted reminders within the buildings on hygiene etiquette.
We have posted notices to encourage all residents to pay more attention when cleaning gym equipment before and after use.
We have installed and continue to provide commercial hand sanitizer stations in high traffic areas for resident use.
Communications has been distributed to all residents and includes links to provincial and federal health websites.

What Southwest is communicating to employees

More frequent cleaning is taking place in high traffic and public spaces.
Hygiene etiquette has been circulated and posted.
Communications has been distributed to all employees related to business practices during this time.

For more information on COVID-19 visit:

HEALTH & SAFETY	FINANCIAL PROGRAMS
Definitions of Self-Monitoring	Federal Financial Programs
Nova Scotia COVID-19 Web Page	Employment Insurance ( EI )
Canadian Public Health Agency	Canada Emergency Response Benefit ( CERB )
World Health Organization

SOUTHWEST SUGGESTIONS
Southwest Properties Community Page	Top 10 List of Things to Do

We have taken our residents events online ! Let's stay connected. Please join us....

The health, safety and wellness of our residents, employees and commercial tenants continues to be of upmost importance to Southwest Properties. The Southwest's Pandemic Committee is focused on keeping abreast of the latest news and industry standards as it related to our stakeholders.

Get in touch with us! (902) 422-6412