Close to 30% of Americans live in a property governed by a condo board, homeowners association (HOA), or other community association—more than 70 million people. These associations are generally responsible for property upkeep, enforcement of community rules, and acting as a go-between for residents when disputes arise. Most people have a good or at least […]
Everything You Need to Know About Concrete Restoration Projects (FL)
At some point, every building will require concrete repairs and restoration. If you’ve ever undertaken a concrete restoration project, you’re aware of the many challenges they entail: substantial costs, lengthy time delays, irritation over hurricane shutters, windows and doors, uncooperative owners and the potential for incidental damage. Read the article…………………………….
Top 5 HOA Collection Policy FAQs for Board Members (GA)
Many board members and homeowners have questions about their HOA collection policy and how their HOA enforces the policy. We’ve asked our experienced HOA collection attorney team to provide the top questions they hear from association board members to help you better manage your community: Read the article…………………………….
Maximizing Insurance Savings: A guide to maintenance, replacement, and risk mitigation in community associations
For community associations, managing insurance costs can be a challenging but crucial task. Focusing on maintenance, replacement, and risk mitigation can significantly impact insurance premiums especially when dealing with separate carriers for property and general liability insurance. Below, we explore strategies for community associations to proactively maintain and replace key elements, ultimately reducing the risk […]
Roof Preventative Maintenance for Multi-Family Communities
A roofing Preventative Maintenance Agreement (PMA) is a key component in property up-keep. This article will cover the basics of roof preventive maintenance: what it is, why it’s important, and what to look for with different roofing systems. To start off, roof preventive maintenance is scheduled maintenance and cleaning designed to help maintain the overall […]
What Do You Mean We Cannot Enforce The Association’s 55-And-Older Provision? (FL)
While the Fair Housing Act (FHA) protects all citizens from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, and disability or familial status (families with children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal guardians, pregnant women, and people trying to get custody of children under 18), there is an […]
Strategic Budgeting for Deferred Maintenance: A Roadmap for Long-Term Success (CO)
Analyzing the financial health of a homeowners association is a crucial task to ensure its ability to maintain and enhance the community and common areas. For a variety of reasons, sometimes the association will be faced with deferred maintenance. Creating a funding plan to address maintenance helps establish a sustainable financial foundation. Completing an assessment […]
Emotional Support Animals Must Obey a Co-op’s House Rules (NY)
Q: We live in a small, no-pets Westchester County co-op. Our upstairs neighbors were recently allowed to acquire an emotional support dog. The dog runs back and forth for 30 minutes at a time, and it frequently scratches a bedroom rug, waking us up throughout the night. We have shared our concerns with the neighbors, […]
Getting Your Community Ready for Spring and Summer
As the winter chill begins to fade away, it’s time for HOA communities to gear up for the vibrant seasons of spring and summer. Ensuring your community is prepared for the warmer months involves a checklist of essential tasks to enhance safety, maintain amenities, and foster a sense of community spirit. Here’s a guide to […]
Achieving an HOA Meeting Quorum
It’s five minutes until the Annual Meeting starts. The governing documents require the presence in person or by proxy of at least 25% of the eligible voters to establish a legal quorum. With only 21% of the members so represented, the meeting has to be canceled and rescheduled. Read the article…………………………….
Electronic Voting takes the Burden Off of Management Companies (NY)
There are several reasons why property management companies in NY should want to have their condos equipped with electronic voting systems: Read the article…………………………….
Governing Document Reviews and Amendments (OH)
It is important for boards to be familiar with and to regularly review their community’s governing documents. The governing documents of a community generally consist of the declaration of covenants and restrictions (often referred to as declarations), the code of regulations/bylaws, the articles of incorporation, and possibly, rules and regulations, and these documents provide the […]
Effective Communication Strategies for Community Association Boards (OH)
Effective communication is vital for board members. In fact, it is the cornerstone of a thriving community association. Enhanced communication can make owners feel informed, involved, and empowered, and ultimately encourages confidence and participation. Let’s delve into why communication matters: Read the article…………………………….
Co-Op and Condo Boards Face Challenges Accommodating Emotional Support Animals (NY)
The demand for emotional support animals (ESAs) can present challenges for co-op and condo boards, particularly in buildings with strict no-pet policies. The key to addressing ESA requests lies in recognizing the distinction between an ESA and a pet. Unlike pets, ESAs serve as therapeutic companions for individuals with disabilities and are protected under the […]
Addressing the Hard Insurance Market: Strategies for Boards (NY)
Rising insurance premiums and dwindling coverage have co-op and condo boards at the mercy of what’s called a “hard insurance market.” This is largely because insurers’ are trying to offset billion-dollar losses with higher premiums, lower coverage and exclusions. In the face of escalating costs, boards are forced to explore different ways to reduce liability […]
HOA Homefront: Why ‘toxic mold’ myths continue to panic residents (CA)
In 2000, a new panic swept the country — “toxic mold.” Twenty-four years of lawsuits and untold billions of dollars later, major mold myths continue to frighten residents and cause exaggerated repairs and unnecessary conflict. On one side of the debate is the mold industry: testers, consultants and mold clean-up contractors. On the other side […]
Why do residents break HOA rules? (CT)
If you run an HOA, or a Homeowners’ Association, you know that residents are going to break the rules. One of the challenges for an HOA is determining how to enforce these rules and what steps to take when residents break them consistently. Read the article…………………………….
Conflict Management How to Handle When Things Get Out of Hand (NV)
Living in close quarters can—and often does—lead to conflict. In co-op, condo, and HOA communities, conflict can occur between residents, or between a resident and the board. And to complicate matters, a seemingly isolated conflict between residents may spill over to become a conflict between resident(s) and the board. What’s the key to resolving differences? […]
The Ariel West’s Terra Cotta Troubles (NY)
Ariel West has found that when it rains, it indeed pours. The 32-story luxury condo on Manhattan’s Upper West Side has been forced to take on the lengthy and expensive process of replacing its terra cotta rainscreen after dangerous defects appeared less than 10 years after the building’s construction. The alarm was raised in 2015, […]
Condo/HOA Boards – Don’t Let Lenders Block Your Collections (NY)
Condominium and HOA boards in New York have lien foreclosure rights against delinquent properties. But, when the primary mortgage lender isn’t qualified to do business in New York, delays and complications can arise. Here’s what you need to know: Read the article…………………………….
How does a condominium assessment lien work? (FL)
Condominium associations have various tasks that require them to interact with unit owners, such as collecting overdue fees or payments. These delinquent dues can impact all other unit owners, requiring the association to respond appropriately. Sometimes, sending notices can be enough to collect these fees, but other scenarios may call for further actions, such as […]
7 Traffic-Calming Devices To Slow Speeding In Your HOA
Speeding cars on private roads is a widespread concern that can result in serious consequences. In fact, speeding in residential areas is one of the most common complaints to local police stations across the country. While your homeowners’ association (HOA) may be able to implement several measures to combat speeding, traffic-calming devices can effectively reduce […]
How Condos are Reassessed (IL)
The job of the Assessor’s Office is to calculate a fair market value for your property. The market value is how much your property could sell for based on the current real estate market. For residential properties, including condos, your property’s assessed value equals 10% of its fair market value, per Cook County ordinance. Read […]
Understanding the Differences Between CC&Rs, Bylaws and Rules & Regulations (CA)
For HOAs, implementing universal rules and expectations is part of what helps a community thrive. To structure these, every association has three types of governing documents: Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (called “CC&Rs”), Bylaws, and Rules & Regulations. Read the article…………………………….
Navigating the Shadows: HOA Fraud and Community Safety (CA)
Homeowners Associations (HOAs) play a pivotal role in maintaining harmony and order in the fabric of community living. However, this structured environment is not immune to fraud and misconduct risks. HOA fraud casts a shadow over community trust and safety, raising concerns and demanding vigilance. This blog explores the intricacies of HOA fraud, offering insights […]
Navigating Financial Challenges: Structural Integrity Reserve Studies
Ensuring the structural integrity of buildings is a primary concern for community associations in Florida, where climate and weather events can pose a significant threat to buildings and their residents. Structural Integrity Reserve Studies (SIRS) address this by offering crucial insights into a building’s condition and future maintenance needs, safeguarding buildings against potential damage and […]
Artificial Intelligence: Responsible Guidelines for Your HOA
Community association board members and managers should approach the use of artificial intelligence thoughtfully and responsibly. Consider the following: Clearly define objectives. Outline your goals. Whether it’s building community, streamlining processes, or enhancing decision-making, understanding your objectives is essential. Read the article…………………………….
Waging War on HOA Weeds
Why is it that the plants you want to keep green and living always brown and wilt, while the weeds you try to kill flourish and drive you nuts? It’s a problem that plagues every yard, in every community, no matter in what part of the country you live. While the problem is inevitable, there […]
Dos and Don’ts of Election Challenges in Community Associations (FL)
Pursuant to their relevant statutory provisions, election disputes that take place in condominium, homeowners’, and cooperative associations are subject to mandatory nonbinding arbitration before the Division of Florida Condominiums, Timeshares, and Mobile Homes (the “Division,” for short). It is referred to as “nonbinding” because the arbitrator’s order is not final until 30 days after its […]
Mastering the Architectural Review Process
Reviewing architectural applications is typically part of a community association manager’s bread and butter. However, the architectural review process can be fraught with stumbling blocks, and architectural disputes with homeowners can be drawn-out, expensive affairs. A few practice tips for processing architectural applications are listed below to help master the architectural review process: Read the […]
Holding Orderly, Efficient Annual Meetings – It’s Not as Hard as It Seems!
Talk to anyone familiar with common-interest community governance anywhere in the country, and they will tell you the same thing: apathy is rampant among residents of co-ops, condos, and HOAs. Not only is it difficult to get owners and shareholders to run for their boards of directors, but it’s a struggle to even get them […]
Homeowner challenges HOA over solar panels (FL)
Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into usable electricity. They have been gaining popularity in recent years as homeowners seek ways to reduce their utility bills, as well as their carbon footprints. A Florida homeowner is reportedly feeling frustrated, however, regarding solar panel installation on a roof. The Homeowners Association where the individual lives […]
Security measures: How communities can protect residents while minimizing liability
Community associations need to tread carefully when it comes to security. Employing various security measures and creating a perception of security could make communities liable if a crime occurs. For example, where a resident or member sees that the association has installed cameras or license plate readers or employed roving guards, the expectation naturally arises […]
Dealing with Difficult Owners in an Association
Living in a community can offer many benefits, such as shared amenities and a sense of community. However, associations come with their own set of challenges, particularly when dealing with difficult owners. Whether it’s disagreements over rules and regulations, or disruptive behavior, addressing these issues requires a delicate balance of assertiveness, diplomacy, and adherence to […]
Wellness Amenities and Their Impact on Resident Satisfaction (FL)
Wellness amenities can not only improve the health and happiness of your community members but can also drastically improve the property values and attraction to your neighborhood. As the leading HOA management company, Wise Property Management can provide the highest quality homeowners association management Read the article…………………………….
How to Successfully Budget Your HOA
A homeowners association makes the big decisions for your condo or living space. These big decisions include a budget, which encompasses how your association will decide which areas of your property require financial spending. Creating a budget is a complex project; at Thayer Associates, we’d like to make the process easier. Read the article…………………………….
Florida Condominium Terminations: Five Considerations
A condo termination, also known as a condominium deconversion, refers to the process where a condominium association legally dissolves. Condo terminations occur for several reasons including economic factors, aging infrastructure, or the desire of unit owners to capitalize on real estate market conditions. Read the article…………………………….
Rules and Expectations of Managers and HOA Boards of Directors (CA)
If you have never owned a home that has a governing homeowners association (HOA), it can be difficult to sort out who does what. While collaboration among everyone involved is what helps to drive a community forward, it’s helpful to clarify responsibilities and align goals. Read the article…………………………….
Dos and Don’ts of Election Challenges in Community Associations (FL)
Pursuant to their relevant statutory provisions, election disputes that take place in condominium, homeowners’, and cooperative associations are subject to mandatory nonbinding arbitration before the Division of Florida Condominiums, Timeshares, and Mobile Homes (the “Division,” for short). It is referred to as “nonbinding” because the arbitrator’s order is not final until 30 days after its […]
Mastering NYC Building Codes and FISP
Welcome, Manhattan Coop and Condo Board Members! In the sphere of urban architecture and safety regulations, New York City sets the standard with its stringent building codes and standards. As stewards of your community’s safety and integrity, understanding these regulations, particularly the Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), is paramount. Let’s dive into this informative explainer […]
Pros and Cons of Active Adult Communities
The terms “55-plus community,” “active adult community,” “lifestyle communities” and “planned communities” refer to a setting that caters to the needs and preferences of adults over the age of 55. These communities are designed for seniors who are able to care for themselves but may be looking to downsize to a community with others their […]
Is it a Reserve Component (or a Capital Improvement)?
So the first criteria for a Reserve component is that it exists. If it does not exist, it is a new asset to the community, and therefore a Capital Improvement. But what about a black-and-white closed circuit camera system? Can it be replaced through Reserves with a color-digital system with a one-week digital video backup […]
The Road Ahead: Embracing EV Charging in Homeowners Associations (CA)
The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) represents a pivotal shift in our approach to transportation, marking a step towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. However, for many living in communities managed by Homeowners Associations (HOAs), the adoption of EVs brings forth the challenge of setting up convenient charging infrastructure. This blog delves into how HOAs can […]
EV charging in FL condos – can an Association prohibit owners from installing EV charging outlets in their assigned parking spaces?
EV charging in Florida condo buildings and communities is much more involved than having a charging outlet installed in the garage of your Single-Family Home. Today we are doing an overview of Florida Condominium Owners Associations (COAs) allowing unit owners to install a dedicated charging outlet at their individual parking spaces, and/or the Association installing […]
Evaluate Your Sign Restrictions Now To Avoid Legal Issues In the Future (OH)
As we are approaching the end of winter, it is a perfect time for boards to review their association’s governing documents and understand whether signs may be displayed outside homes in their community. With the warmer months ahead, many owners begin renovating and enter into agreements with contractors that may require them to display advertisements […]
What Happens to Owner Equity? (CA)
In past installments, we discussed why condominium projects are especially prone to a shortened service life. We analyzed why the condominium “business model” allows inadequate maintenance, leading to early deterioration. Finally, we listed the signs of failure—some obvious, some hidden—that will lead to a project’s obsolescence. In this installment, we will review what can be […]
Facing Property Insurance Challenges (CO)
Skyrocketing premiums for property insurance coverage for many common interest communities in Colorado, particularly condominium projects, are becoming a financial nightmare for those communities impacted by the premium hikes and the homeowners who live in them. In fact, the Speaker of the House in Colorado is sponsoring House Bill 24-1108 to require the Commissioner of […]
MCL 599.211: Who Is on the Hook for Those Unpaid Assessments? (MI)
Imagine this. After weeks, months, or maybe even years of searching, you finally found the condo unit of your dreams and have decided to make it your own. There’s only one issue—unpaid condo association assessments on the unit. Fear not, the Michigan Condo Act provides clarity on matters of this sort. Read the article…………………………….