Several changes in 2022 Illinois case law have impacted the management of condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome community associations. Read the article………………………..
New Law Impacts Illinois Condo Association Document Requests, Deadlines, and Fees (IL)
A new Illinois law went into effect on January 1st, 2023 that impacts the required disclosures for a sale in a condominium association. Along with a brief explanation of the applicable law, this article will provide board members and management with a summary of the 2023 update including legal requirements, fee limitations, and deadlines. Read […]
How to Create and Implement Sustainable HOA Practices
The World Happiness Report just released its annual list of the world’s happiest countries. Meanwhile, U.S. News ranks countries each year on quality of life. The World Happiness Report criteria defining happiness includes GDP, life expectancy, generosity, social support, freedom and level of corruption income. U.S. News’ rankings look at tangibles such as quality of […]
Asphalt Lot Paving and Sidewalk Survival Guide for HOAs
In Chicago and its suburbs, weather can drastically shorten the life of parking lots and sidewalks if they don’t get proper maintenance. Plus, potholes and other uneven areas can be a safety concern. We interviewed Todd Eichholz, CEO of A&A Paving in Roselle, IL, for a survival guide, as his team has extensive experience with […]
Likely Condo Plumbing Issues and How to Avoid Them (IL)
One of the burdens that accompanies home ownership is plumbing issues. Condo plumbing issues are particularly destructive because they can not only affect the home where the event occurred, but surrounding homes as well. We interviewed Eric Stein of One Stop Contractors to hear first hand the biggest plumbing concerns for condo associations, and best […]
‘Tis the Season…for Fire Prevention
During the winter months, the rate and risk of residential fires increases. Your condo or HOA is not immune to this. The increase is often attributed to additional electricity use, holiday décor, Christmas trees and the increased use of electric space heaters. Residents and owners need to be sure that they are using common sense […]
2023 Illinois HOA/Condo Legislative Updates
As the new year approaches, it is important for association boards and community association professionals to be cognizant of new laws that may impact the industry. For 2023, there are a few updates, mainly to Section 22.1 of the Illinois Condominium Property Act. This change to Section 22.1 was made in response to prior litigation […]
Illinois Condominium Act: Supreme Court Refuses to Acknowledge New Private Right of Action for Sellers
Reversing the decisions of the Circuit and Appellate courts, the Illinois Supreme Court entered an opinion holding that section 22.1 of the Illinois Condominium Act does not imply a private right of action in favor of condominium-unit sellers. Read the article………………………..
‘Wrongful Acts’ Includes Both Negligent and Intentional Acts (IL)
The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, applying Illinois law, has held that an insurer had a duty to defend an insured condominium association and its board members against an underlying lawsuit because the association’s board members allegedly committed “Wrongful Acts” under the directors and officers coverage part of a business […]
10 Common Resident Complaints & How to Manage Them
In every industry, customer complaints are inevitable. It’s important to have a system in place to deal with them efficiently. In the property management industry, this is even more crucial, as buildings are constantly interacting with residents and their families. Read the article………………………..
Condo Association Budget Season Tips: How to Cut Costs and Increase your Reserves (Without Raising Assessments)
It’s that time of year again — budget season for Condo Associations! If you’re a Board member or Property Manager, you know how important it is to get the budget right. The goal is always to maintain or improve the property while keeping costs down and building up reserves. But sometimes that can feel like […]
The More You Know Before the First Snow: Condo and HOA Winter Preparation (IL)
I am not sure where this year went, but we have already experienced the first frost in the Chicagoland area. Like it or not, winter is right around the corner! This article should serve as a reminder that if you have not started your winter preparations, do so now. Read the article………………………..
FAQ: Reserve Studies
What are some of the most common mistakes made by building/association boards when it comes to budgeting for capital improvements? Read the Q&A……………………………….
Condo and HOA Common Elements: Who is Responsible?
Maintenance responsibilities in condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome community associations are not always clear. Is the association or is the unit owner responsible in the event of a repair issue? Who is responsible for a maintenance issue involving a common element? Read the article………………………..
Homeowner Participation Makes Better Associations
As an owner of your home, you are a member of an organization, and there is more to it than just paying your monthly assessments. It would be best if you familiarized yourself with your Governing Documents. If you are unsure what those are, they include your Association’s Declaration, Bylaws, and Rules & Regulations. Read […]
Due Process is Critical to the Violation Process (IL)
Consistent with prior rulings, Illinois courts have shown a fondness to expand a condominium board’s duties in ensuring “due process” in violation hearings. In Board of Directors of Winnitt Park Condominium Association v. Bourdage, the court refused to uphold a fine imposed at a violation hearing that was held at a time when the board […]
Your Building Maintenance Checklist for Fall: 9 Things to Do Before The Leaves Fall
The leaves are falling and another Chicago winter is on its way. That means it’s time to start thinking about your building’s maintenance. As a property owner or manager, you know that maintaining your building is important all year round. But there are some tasks that are especially important to do before the cold weather […]
Who Let the Dogs Out?
Many condominium and community associations are receiving increasingly frequent requests from residents to keep dogs and other “assistance animals” in communities that do not allow pets. Where pets are allowed, the requests are often for dogs that are much larger than the maximum weight limit, or are for a prohibited breed of dog, such as […]
Condo and HOA Maintenance: Who is Responsible?
There are many benefits to being a member of a condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome community association. By paying assessments, unit owners share the cost for a variety of association expenses including common area maintenance (ex. lobbies, hallways, elevators), amenities (ex. club house, gym, pool), landscaping, utilities, and more. Read the article………………………..
Can a Homeowner Really Do That? (IL)
This article will discuss common circumstances that arise in community associations. Always remember that not all community associations are alike, and you should always consult the governing documents for your Association and the applicable statute governing your community association. Read the article………………………..
Answering The Most Asked Questions About Condo Insurance
As a condo owner, you may be wondering whether you need to purchase insurance for your unit. While your condominium association’s master policy will cover the building itself, it usually does not provide coverage for your personal belongings or liability coverage. That’s where condo insurance comes in – it can help protect you financially if […]
Pet Policies and Assistance Animals: The New Normal for Community Associations (IL)
Among the many impacts the coronavirus pandemic has had on daily lives, two trends that have become part of the “new normal” include pet adoption and remote work. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), nearly one in five American households “acquired a cat or dog since the beginning […]
Fiduciary Responsibilities for Board Members of Condo, Townhome and Homeowner Associations (IL)
Volunteering to serve on the board of a community association is an opportunity to help in a way that can significantly improve the quality of life of all the homeowners. Board members have a significant amount of authority and can raise assessments, approve special assessments, improve the grounds and curb appeal of the association as […]
Fiduciary Responsibilities for Board Members of Condo, Townhome and Homeowner Associations
Volunteering to serve on the board of a community association is an opportunity to help in a way that can significantly improve the quality of life of all the homeowners. Board members have a significant amount of authority and can raise assessments, approve special assessments, improve the grounds and curb appeal of the association as […]
4 Items for your Community Association Party Checklist
Block parties, cookouts, and outdoor social activities in condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome associations can bring residents together. These events can strengthen community bonds and provide a great opportunity for board members to meet and connect with fellow neighbors. Read the article…………………..
4 Ways Inflation Can Impact Your Condo and HOA
Condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome community association board members and property managers prepare budgets to cover operational costs. These expenses include services (ex. landscaping, snow removal) along with routine maintenance, repairs, and replacement over time to ensure the property remains in good condition. Read the article………………………..
Update On Residency Requirements To Serve On A Condo Board In Illinois
The Illinois legislature has amended the Illinois Condominium Property Act (the “Act”) and while not mandatory, it allows Boards of Directors to implement policies on how Boards can be composed. Pursuant to Section 18(a)(1) of the Act, the change now allows condominium boards to require that the majority of the condominium board be made up […]
City of Chicago Adopts New “Cooling Ordinance”: What Do Chicago Community Associations Need to Know? (IL)
On June 22, 2022, the City of Chicago adopted a new ordinance commonly referred to as the “Cooling Ordinance”. The Cooling Ordinance modifies the cooling requirements for certain residential buildings, which does include condominium and community associations as well as residential cooperative high-rises that meet the building criteria Read the article……………………………
Summer Maintenance Tasks For HOAs To Focus On (IL)
Warmer temperatures took a little longer this year, but it’s finally here! This is a great time for your HOA to tick a few maintenance tasks off their to-do list to ensure that your condo community’s shared areas are all in top shape for summer. Read the entire article……………………………….
HOA Vs. Condo Owner Repairs: Who’s Responsible For What? (IL)
Many individuals and families in Chicago choose condo life because of the benefits of living in a community with a homeowners association. One of the main perks is knowing that a portion of the upkeep will be taken care of by the HOA. But what portion exactly? Understanding what your responsibility is as a condo […]
Impact of New Case Law on Illinois Condominium Deconversions
The sale of all the units within a condominium association, also known as a condo deconversion, has gained momentum over the last few years. Compared to the cost of constructing an entirely new property from the ground up, some real estate investors and developers have found it easier and financially more advantageous to purchase an […]
Lifeguards and Your Community Association: 3 Things to Know (IL)
With warm weather on the rise, it’s important your condominium, homeowner (HOA), and/or townhome community associations are primed for pool season. While pools are a great asset to a community, they can also be a risk or liability if associations are not equipped with the correct rules, appropriate signage, and safety measures. Read the entire article……………………………….
Mental Health Issues in Multifamily Communities: Compassion, Respect, & Avoiding Liability (IL)
Running a community association requires boards and managers to work with people from all walks of life, including those who have unique experiences, wants, needs, and challenges. That requirement also includes residents living with behavioral or mental health issues—and thanks to the pandemic and all the chaos and upheaval that came with it, more people […]
How to Run a Successful Capital Improvement Project for Community Associations – A Best Practices Primer for Board Members and Property Managers (IL)
Now that Spring is come it is time to switch gears from hunkering down and weathering Old Man Winter to planning for successful capital improvement projects. Capital improvement projects are the most expensive undertakings for a community association. As a result, associations must ensure that there is professional oversight every step of the way from […]
How To Prioritize Building Improvement Projects In Your HOA
When it comes to building improvement projects, your HOA doesn’t only need to know what maintenance jobs should be done down the line, but also when they need to be done. Knowing how to prioritize maintenance jobs will not only ensure that issues are always dealt with promptly and professionally, but will keep residents happy […]
2022 Property Taxes: Impact on Chicagoland Community Associations
Cook County properties are reassessed on a triennial schedule. Every three years, the new valuations – along with appeals, exemptions, local tax levies, and assessments of nearby properties – determine the amount of future property tax bills. Read the entire article……………………………….
End of Legislative Session Update (Spring 2022) (IL)
On April 9, 2022, the Illinois General Assembly adjourned until the fall veto session. Five bills affecting community associations and community association managers passed both Houses during the Spring legislative session. The General Assembly has 30 days after the date the bill passes both Houses to send it to the Governor. The Governor then has […]
Updated Statutory Disclosure Requirements for Illinois Condominium and Community Association
The Illinois legislature recently approved two pieces of legislation that amend the Illinois Condominium Property Act (“ICPA”) and Common Interest Community Association Act (“CICAA”) and update the disclosure requirements for condominium and community associations Read the entire article……………………………….
Easy Ways to Soundproof Your Condo
If you live in an apartment or condo, you most likely share a few walls with your neighbors. Condo walls are generally not made of particularly thick materials, which might not necessarily be a problem; however, many things can happen in life that result in some extra noise, such as having a baby, adopting a […]
Board Member 101: Best Practices (IL)
Board members who are elected to represent their condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome community association carry a weight on their shoulders to ensure they are acting in the best interest of their fellow neighbors. Read the entire article……………………………….
How to Get Out in Front of Emergency Maintenance in Residential Buildings
At one point or another, every home needs a little bit of attention. Maybe the door sticks during the summer months. Maybe the shower drips. While these issues all need to be resolved, you wouldn’t describe any of them as urgent. But every once in a while, a home will have a time-sensitive issue where […]
2022 Legislative Updates (IL)
In 2021, the Illinois General Assembly did not make any amendments to the Illinois Common Interest Community Association Act and only made one significant change to the Illinois Condominium Property Act (the “Act”). Effective January 1, 2022, Read the entire article……………………………….
Don’t Let a Burst Pipe Burst Your Bubble (IL)
With Chicago weather at full force, it is inevitable that condominiums, townhome associations and homeowner associations will be confronted with burst pipes and the subsequent damage. As a means of preparation, please review the steps below so you can be ready for when a pipe bursts your bubble. Read the entire article……………………………….
Bills Affecting Community Associations in the 101st General Assembly – Updated January 25, 2022 (IL)
As January ends, the 2022 legislative session is now in full swing and moving quickly. The General Assembly intends to end session in early April because it is an election year. However, COVID continues to present difficulties for the General Assembly to meet and conduct business in-person, which has already resulted in the cancelation of […]