Dakota Associates Incorporated
Dakota Cottage and House Watch
What is Dakota Cottage Watch?
We are a once a week check on your cottage or house service. Our parent company, Dakota Systems, Inc, has been protecting homes and businesses for over 16 years. During the inspection a thorough walk around the main structure and nearby outbuildings will be performed. If contracted for, and keys provided, a brief inside check will be done. A couple of mousetraps can even be taken care of. Boats in hoists or in storage on the property would be checked also.
What happens if something unusual is discovered during the inspection?
If something is found that is different from the initial inspection it will be noted on the weekly inspection form. A digital photograph will be taken and e-mailed with the report. If it is of a property threatening nature, emergency repairs to lessen the damage threat will be taken care of.
What kind of repairs?
A broken window with missing glass for example would be covered with plastic or wood. A tree branch through the roof would be removed and the hole covered with plastic or a tarp as another example. Another would be securing a forced door. Or maybe shutting off flowing water in case of a burst pipe.
When would I be notified?
Anything not threatening will be noted on the inspection form. Anything requiring a repair will cause notification as soon as possible, even as soon as the problem is detected.
What about large scale damage?
Reasonable attempts will be initiated to minimize further damage. Immediate notification procedures will be attempted.
What about extensive or permanent repairs?
We will assist you in your plan however we can. We would be willing to meet your contractor on site. If requested we would secure a competent, reasonable local contractor to effect repairs. This would only be done if you request it. All associated billing and costs will be forwarded to your permanent address.
How am I informed?
Weekly reports will be sent or transmitted. E-mail is preferred, followed by fax and if either of those is not possible, the report will be mailed. For urgent notification all other ways you provide will be attempted, telephone, pagers, cell phone or other responsible parties.
Ok, what does all this peace of mind cost?
Weekly inspections and checks are billed at the rate of $50.00 per month plus 7.125% NYS sales tax. Emergency temporary repairs will be billed at the rate of $30.00 per hour plus material and sales tax.
Any discounts or bonuses?
Sure paying for a season (at least 4 months) in advance will save you 10%. Referring a friend or neighbor who signs on will get you a free month of service.
Any other benefits?
Yes, window stickers are provided informing people that the property is being checked. Should something happen between inspections, neighbors or the authorities will have someone to contact. Additional no cost inspections will be done following periods of severe weather.
I'm convinced, how do I sign up?
Easy, just let us know you are interested. A representative will meet you at the property with the necessary paperwork and conduct an initial inspection. This becomes the template for future inspections. Dakota reserves the right to refuse service based on property condition, location, and accessibility.
Our parent company Dakota Associates, Inc.
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