When you buy a condominium, you’re not just buying a home—you’re also becoming part of a community governed by a board of directors. These board members have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the association, manage its finances responsibly, and treat all owners fairly. But what happens when they don’t? Breaches […]
Selecting a Vendor for your Community Association (NC)
Selecting a vendor for a project or professional service is one of the more important duties of the board of directors in a homeowners or condominium association. It is one of the areas where the board must exercise its best business judgment. Read the article…………………………….
Tips for Maintaining Your HOA’s Common Areas
The common areas of a community are for all residents to use, and everyone in the community should treat these spaces with care. However, it’s the association that is primarily responsible for maintaining these areas. But what exactly does this maintenance entail? In this blog, we’ll cover the basics of HOA common areas as well […]
Water Damage: Who Pays When the Condo/HOA Documents Are Silent?
An HOAleader.com reader asks: “We live in an 8-story 72-unit condominium. A unit owner’s ceiling developed water stains from a water leak from the unit above and says they shouldn’t be responsible for repairs. They argue that the unit owners above should pay for repairs. Our rules and other documents don’t mention anything on this […]
Communities for Those 55 Years of Age or Older
Recently we have been approached by multiple associations inquiring about making their housing community one that is restricted to those residents that are 55 years of age or older. The ability and requirements for establishing or becoming a housing community for those 55 years of age or older is governed by the federal Housing for […]
Handling Common Nuisances in Community Associations: Noise, Odors, Marijuana Smoke, and More
Living in a condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome community association comes with shared spaces and close proximity to neighbors, which can sometimes lead to nuisance complaints. From noise disruptions to unpleasant odors and smoke, addressing these issues promptly and fairly is essential for maintaining harmony and ensuring a positive living environment for all residents. Read the […]
Insurance for your Home and HOA Homeowners Associations – Who Covers What?
The Association’s governing documents always dictate the association’s responsibilities versus the owner’s responsibilities. Single family dwellings are easy to decipher who is responsible for what – the homeowner would need to purchase an HO-3 or HE-7 homeowners policy to insure the dwelling and the association would need to insure shared property such as clubhouses, swimming […]
Maintaining Retention Ponds and Stormwater Devices In Community Associations (NC)
Retention ponds and stormwater management devices play a crucial role in protecting neighborhoods from flooding, erosion, and water pollution. In North Carolina, where heavy rains and hurricanes are common, well-maintained stormwater infrastructure is essential for safeguarding property values, environmental health, and regulatory compliance. Homeowners and condominium associations typically bear the responsibility of ensuring these systems […]
Records Requests for Homeowners Associations (TX)
Under Section 209.005 of the Texas Property Code, homeowners associations (HOAs) in Texas must adhere to strict protocols when responding to records requests from property owners. This statute outlines the rights of homeowners to access HOA records while establishing safeguards to protect sensitive information and ensure orderly procedures. Read the article…………………………….
How to Effectively Communicate with Delinquent Homeowners (TX)
Few tasks faced by HOA boards are as consistently challenging or sensitive as dealing with assessment delinquencies. When homeowners fall behind on payments, it impacts the entire community’s financial health and operational capacity. While taking appropriate collection action is necessary, the way the board approaches HOA delinquency communication can significantly influence the outcome. Effective strategies […]
Host a Successful HOA Block Party to Build Community Engagement
If you’ve already acted on our Spring prep tips for community managers, now’s the perfect time to bring your refreshed outdoor spaces to life—with an HOA block party. These gatherings are a fun and effective way of building HOA community, boosting HOA resident engagement, and fostering neighborly connections that last. Read the article…………………………….
Voting in Community Associations: Seven Considerations for Board Members
Voting is a cornerstone of decision-making in condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome community associations. Impacting everything from board elections to approving key association initiatives, voting brings unique challenges and considerations that board members must navigate to ensure a fair, transparent, and legally compliant process. Read the article…………………………….
Report Says a Green Electric Grid Faces Stiff Headwinds (NY)
Even as the cost of producing electricity comes down, the cost of delivering it goes up, resulting in higher bills for New Yorkers — with double-digit increases looming. And even though renewable energy is on the upswing, the state faces major headwinds in its drive to power its electric grid with renewable energy instead of […]
An HOA and Bankruptcy: The Causes Every Community Should Know (GA)
Navigating the relationship between an HOA and bankruptcy can be a complex matter affecting the Board of Directors and the homeowners of the community. For communities already grappling with aging infrastructure, poor financial management, governance challenges, or insolvency, bankruptcy may be an option for the Association to consider. For residents, it can be a wake-up […]
Maximizing Owner Votes: Practical Solutions for Turning Around Voter Apathy (FL)
Are your association’s governing documents woefully outdated but the voting threshold required to approve amendments to update your documents so high that it seems you can never make the changes necessary to bring them into the modern age? Is your community in need of improvements or modernization but you are unable to get owner participation […]
This Endorsement Changes Policies – Please Read It Carefully
There has been a lot of discussion lately about adding an association as an additional insured versus as an additional interest on a community association’s liability policy. It has come up when discussing clubhouse rentals, hiring contractors, and adding electric vehicle charging stations on common area property. During these discussions, one thing has been pretty […]
Florida Summer Maintenance Tips for HOAs & Condo Communities
Florida summers are no joke. While hurricanes dominate the headlines, it’s the relentless heat and humidity that slowly strain your community’s infrastructure. From rooftops and HVAC units to elevators and pools, the wear and tear can sneak up fast—and if you’re on the board of a condominium or homeowners association, waiting too long to address […]
What Repairs Are an HOA Responsible For? Guide to HOA Maintenance Responsibilities
Homeowners Associations (HOAs) play a major role in preserving the appearance and functionality of shared communities. But when a repair issue comes up, it’s not always clear who’s responsible—the HOA or the homeowner? Understanding what repairs HOAs are responsible for helps avoid confusion, reduce conflict, and make sure needed work doesn’t fall through the cracks. […]
When can an HOA foreclose over unpaid fees? (FL)
Many residential properties in Florida are in homeowners association (HOA) communities. The HOA establishes certain standards for property maintenance and resident conduct. They may provide community amenities, ranging from a gym to swimming pools and playgrounds. The HOA enforces the community’s standards by communicating with non-compliant owners, assessing fees and even taking legal action. Read […]
When Boards Go Silent: What to Do When Your Association Becomes ‘Headless’
What happens when your condo or HOA board stops functioning—when board members resign, stop responding, or disappear altogether? This situation, sometimes referred to as a “headless association,” can leave communities in limbo—without leadership, financial oversight, or the authority to make essential decisions. The recent article from CooperatorNews sheds light on this increasingly common issue, and […]
Summer HOA Maintenance Checklist for Board Members
Summer in a community association is anything but slow. Pools fill up, green spaces get a workout, and residents want everything running smoothly. For board members, this season comes with high expectations—and even higher utility bills if you’re not prepared. Read the article…………………………….
The Ins And Outs Of HOA Vendor Contracts
HOA vendor contracts play a crucial role in maintenance and operations. These contracts define the relationship between vendors and HOAs, determining responsibilities and setting expectations. Board members can make better decisions if they understand these contracts and what goes into them. Read the article…………………………….
HOAs Respond Effectively to Kids Breaking Rules on E-Bikes and Scooters (FL)
The actions by the HOA leaders and residents of the Lakewood Ranch communities near Bradenton and Sarasota, Fla., appear to present a textbook case for how to respond to such rule breakers. They were documented in a recent article in the area’s Observer weekly newspaper that featured insights from several directors as well as residents, […]
Is it Cool to Use the Pool? Get Your Association Summer-Ready! (CO)
As the weather starts to heat up, many homeowners will want to cool down and enjoy their community pool. While they are a wonderful amenity, pools always come with risk. Below are some tips and tricks to make sure your association’s pool is prepared for the summer season. Read the article…………………………….
How to Prepare Your HOA Pool for Summer: Expert Tips for a Smooth Opening
Summer’s almost here, and that means one thing for communities across the country: it’s pool season! But opening the pool isn’t as simple as pulling back the cover and diving in. Behind every fun, splash-filled day is careful planning, smart maintenance, and a commitment to safety. Read the article…………………………….
Effective Conflict Resolution Strategies for HOAs? (CA)
Homeowners associations (HOAs) are vital to maintaining the quality, appearance, and functionality of residential communities. But where people live, emotions can run high—and disagreements are inevitable. The key to a harmonious community lies in how those conflicts are addressed and resolved. Read the article…………………………….
Standalone Reasons to Amend Your Governing Documents (CO)
Many boards struggle with the question of whether or not to amend their governing documents. Below are some standalone reasons to amend certain governing documents in order to protect your community, property values, and the volunteers who serve on the board. Read the article…………………………….
There is More than One Way to Levy a Special Assessment – Which Way Should You “Slice” It? (CO)
Special assessments are commonly used to pay for unexpected repairs and replacements occasioned by unforeseen, and often catastrophic events, such as a roof replacement after a wind/hailstorm where insurance proceeds are insufficient to cover the costs, or to pay for an elevator replacement when a condominium building’s only elevator unexpectedly fails. Read the article…………………………….
Show Some Love: Thank Your Condo Board
April is National Volunteer Month, and it’s the perfect time to recognize a group that often goes underappreciated—your condo association’s volunteer board members. Board members aren’t just names on a letterhead. They’re your neighbors—owners just like you—who volunteer their time to keep your building running smoothly. From managing vendor contracts and tackling maintenance issues to […]
Dealing with ‘Bridezilla’ Behavior and Managing Conflict in Community Associations
Managing a community association often involves navigating challenging personalities, and occasionally, residents may display “bridezilla” or “groomzilla” behavior—demanding, emotional, and resistant to compromise. These individuals may have unrealistic expectations, a sense of entitlement, or emotional reactions that disrupt productive communication. Read the article…………………………….
HOA Landscaping: Understanding the Board’s Role
Landscaping is an important part of every community. Not only do neatly manicured lawns, well-maintained trees, and beautiful flowers improve the overall aesthetics of the neighborhood, but they also help boost property values. As a result, the HOA’s responsibility for maintaining the landscaping of the community’s common areas is one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. […]
Can HOAs limit short-term rentals? (CT)
Short-term rentals can create tension in community living. You might wonder if your homeowners’ association (HOA) has the power to restrict or ban these rentals. Understanding your HOA’s authority can help you avoid unexpected fines, legal troubles, and stay compliant with community rules. It’s important to know where you stand before listing your property. Read […]
Common Characteristics of Effective Association Vendor Contracts (FL)
Identifying the best vendors and striking the finest possible agreements for all of the services that community associations need are among the most consequential aspects of board service. For every vendor that is identified, vetted and selected, associations and their board members should avoid relying on informal verbal agreements, or even using the vendor’s proposal […]
Why Spring Maintenance is Essential for Chicago Buildings (IL)
As winter fades and the temperatures rise, Chicago property owners and condo associations must prioritize spring maintenance for Chicago buildings. Harsh winter conditions can leave behind damage, and spring is the ideal time to inspect, repair, and prepare properties for the warmer months ahead. Regular seasonal maintenance not only helps preserve the property’s value but […]
Proper Use of “Friendly Amendments” During Meetings
At meetings conducted under parliamentary procedure, you may hear references to a “friendly amendment.” Despite how common the term has become, Robert’s Rules of Order barely addresses the concept—and did not mention “friendly amendments” at all until the 10th Edition, published in 2000. Read the article…………………………….
Pitfalls of the POA Assessment Collection Process (TX)
The lifeblood of all types of property owners associations (POAs) is the collection of monthly, quarterly, or annual assessments. Assessments pay for things such as common area maintenance and insurance, amenities like pools, gyms and tennis courts and other responsibilities covered by the POA, so when an owner fails to pay their assessment, it is […]
The Importance of Fair and Clear HOA Rules (CA)
Homeowner associations (HOAs) are created to protect property values, maintain community standards, and foster a safe and enjoyable living environment. One of the most powerful tools HOAs have to achieve this is their set of governing rules. These rules, whether they cover architectural guidelines, landscaping, parking, or noise, are the foundation for a cohesive community. […]
Budgeting and Assessments for Community Associations (MI)
Recently we have received an increasing number of questions regarding community association budgets, their development and distribution, and their relationship with assessments. Here are some points for consideration. Read the article…………………………….
The Hidden Cost of Underfunded Reserves: What Florida’s Condo Real Estate Challenges Teach Us
In recent months, headlines from Florida have brought increased attention to the rising cost of condo ownership. Legislation requires condominiums of three or more stories to conduct structural inspections and mandates reserve funding for all structural assets, so condos can no longer vote to waive or partially fund reserves. Read the article…………………………….
How To Choose The Right HOA Vendors
Choosing the right HOA vendors is one of the most important responsibilities of any association. Whether it’s landscaping, maintenance, security, or pest control, these vendors aid in the community’s daily function and appearance. With so much at stake, board members need to use a thorough selection process. Read the article…………………………….
Developing a Crisis Communication Plan
When a crisis strikes a community association — whether it’s a natural disaster, a financial scandal, or a safety issue — the response must be prompt, measured, and organized. Having a crisis communication plan in place before an incident happens is essential for managing the situation effectively. A solid plan enables community association boards and […]
Why Is It So Hard to Get Quorum (and New Board Members) in NYC Coops?
If you’re on a coop or condo board, you already know: getting enough shareholders or unit owners to show up at the annual meeting can feel like pulling teeth. And when it comes to finding people willing to run for the board? That’s often even harder. So what gives? Read the article…………………………….
The Facts on Reserve Studies
If there’s anything that is most misunderstood among HOA leaders, I would venture to guess that it’s reserve studies. Many of our chapter meetings of the Network discuss and touch on reserve study issues, and members invariably have questions that come up time and again. Watch the webinar……………………….
The Role of Technology in Modern Condo Developments
The landscape of condominium living in Singapore has evolved significantly, driven by rapid advancements in technology. From smart home systems to integrated security features and eco-conscious design, modern condo developments are redefining urban lifestyles. Developments such as W Residences Marina View are at the forefront of this transformation, offering residents a seamless blend of luxury […]
How much money should a HOA have in reserve?
Unfortunately, many associations’ reserve accounts are underfunded, which puts them at a high risk for special assessments, which unfairly penalizes current homeowners with charges to cover the underfunded reserve expenditures. Ideally, an association should have a “Fully Funded Balance” (FBB), which is a calculated accumulative total cost to maintain, repair, and replace the reserve components. […]
Vehicle and Property Use Regulations in Community Associations
Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and condominium associations across North and South Carolina frequently navigate complex regulations regarding vehicle use and property restrictions within their communities. As boards work to maintain community standards and property values, understanding these regulations and ensuring consistent enforcement is crucial. This blog post explores areas of vehicle and property use regulations, their […]
Balancing Community Safety and Recreation
Managing recreational facilities in homeowners associations requires careful balance between providing enjoyable amenities and ensuring community safety. As an HOA board member or property manager, understanding how to navigate these sometimes-competing priorities is essential for reducing liability while maintaining an active, vibrant community. This guide explores key considerations for community recreational spaces and offers practical […]
Common HOA Violations and How to Avoid Them
Most people know that when they live in an HOA, there are certain rules they’ll be expected to follow. An association’s governing documents contain Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) that clearly state what is expected of its members. Yet, even with these expectations, HOA violations happen all the time. Read the article…………………………….
5 Outdoor Spring-Cleaning Tips
With spring in full swing, it is time to start working on that spring cleaning checklist. While everyone has a list of indoor spring-cleaning tasks, HOAs should not forget to look after the outside of homes and communal areas. Read the article…………………………….
HOA Financial Management Best Practices
Effective HOA financial management is the backbone of a thriving community, requiring clear policies, strategic budgeting, reserve planning, transparent reporting, and proactive communication to protect both property values and homeowner trust. Read the article…………………………….