Whenever a group of people live near each other, disputes are bound to occur. Even if your community is a peaceful one, sometimes neighbors have issues with each other. However, if your Board knows how to manage neighbor disputes fairly, they do not have to escalate into an out-of-control situation. Read the article…………………………..
HOA Reserve Studies: How to Identify and Mitigate Risk in Your Community (CA)
Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing property values in communities nationwide. One essential aspect of HOA management is the creation and maintenance of reserve funds, which are dedicated to covering major repair and replacement expenses. In addition, to ensure that these funds are adequate and well-managed, HOAs often conduct reserve […]
What Every Condo or HOA Needs To Know About Emotional Support Animals (MI)
Over the last several years, emotional support animals have been a continuous source of speculation and confusion for many Michigan condo and HOA boards. We all have seen the news stories of individuals attempting to bring animals such as squirrels and even alligators into places of public accommodation under the claim that they are emotional […]
What to Do When a Vendor May be Filing for Bankruptcy (CO)
With continued inflation, rising costs of materials, and the volatility of our current economy, we continue to experience financial impacts to community associations, including the impact to an association when one of its vendors decides to file bankruptcy. Read the article……………………….
5 Important Steps You Can Take to Deal With Rising Maintenance and Construction Costs in 2024
It’s probably safe to say that maintenance and construction costs are going to go up, perhaps way up, in 2024. Why? Ongoing economic uncertainty in the market, higher interest rates, continued labor shortages, rising costs of materials, and (oh lucky us…) a highly charged political season. Read the article……………………………..
HOA Insurance: A Tale of Premiums Past and Strategies for the Future (CO)
Several years ago, my wife suggested, “You should run for a position on our HOA’s Board of Directors. You attend so many board meetings; you would be great at it!” Today, more than ever, I appreciate those who volunteer to serve their community as a board member. This often thankless position can demand so much […]
Conflict Mitigation: When Someone Crosses the Legal Line
Community association leaders—boards and professional managers– were never given the memo that their job descriptions changed. Historically, much of the time invested in managing a community was directed towards fiscal management, fund handling, planning for and replacing infrastructure, and performing ongoing maintenance. Read the article………………………………
Associations Should Take Smart, Proactive Approach for Festive Holiday Season (FL)
Many communities with associations are replete with activities, private gatherings and general good cheer during the holiday season. To help make this most special time of the year as joyful and harmonious as possible, associations should make considered and intelligent decisions and preparations. Read the article…………………………………
Fireplace Safety
As the colder weather sets in, many people are rushing to light their fireplaces to create a cozy and warm ambiance. If you have a woodburning fireplace in your home, it’s crucial to keep fireplace safety in mindto ensure the well-being of your household and your neighbors in your HOA community during the winter season. […]
Top 8 Committees That Help Every Community Function Better
As devoted members of your community’s HOA board, you shoulder the responsibility of ensuring the smooth functioning of your neighborhood. Managing an association involves a multitude of tasks, from overseeing maintenance and financial matters to enforcing rules and fostering a sense of community spirit. However, you don’t have to bear this burden alone. Read the […]
Home Owner Association Snow Removal: Your Questions Answered (PA)
It is November 15, and temperatures are forecast to reach almost 70 degrees later this week. Naturally, I am thinking about snow removal for condominiums and homeowners associations. Even though snowfall was almost nonexistent during the winter of 2022-23, boards need to prepare for the upcoming season and revisit some of the questions we discuss […]
Understanding the Uniqueness of HOAs: Why One Size Doesn’t Fit All (CA)
A common misconception in community management is the belief that one-size-fits-all HOAs. When HOA boards attempt to adopt a one-size-fits-all approach, they risk overlooking critical aspects of their community’s management. For instance, implementing a strict set of rules without considering the cultural and social dynamics of the community can lead to unrest and dissatisfaction among […]
All About the HOA Board of Directors (Your HOA Governance Questions Answered!)
Your home is more than just a place to live, it’s an investment. In fact, Community Associations are centered around the idea of helping maintain and improve property values in order to protect the investment of every member, or homeowner, in the community. Just like any investment, careful management and strategic planning are essential for […]
Building a Safer Tomorrow: Understanding the Updated Reserve Study Standards
It’s your association. As a manager or board member, your job is to lead the association forward. To do so, you retain the services of a Reserve Study provider to recommend how much needs to be set aside in order to have sufficient funds to perform timely inspection, repair, and replacement projects at your association. […]
Ask the HOA Expert: Rules With Reason
Homeowner associations (HOAs) are the fastest growing form of home ownership in America. In metropolitan markets, they can account for over 2/3rds of all new home construction. As more buyers choose this form of housing, condos and planned communities are becoming a dominant force to be reckoned with. Read the article………………………………
Maintaining Your Elevators: Regular Care Can Help Avoid Huge Replacement Costs
The elevator is one of those inventions—along with running hot and cold water and indoor plumbing—that have been around for so long we take it for granted. But elevators obviously weren’t always a part of the architectural landscape. Without them we’d still be living in a world of six-story buildings (maybe seven for the strong-legged), […]
Surveillance in Buildings & HOAS: Privacy vs. Safety? (FL)
In 2017, a Boston couple were brutally murdered in their penthouse apartment in a high-end condominium building. The murderer, the former employee of a company that supplied concierge services to the condo, had worked there, and so knew the ins and outs of the building—including some serious gaps in the property’s security that both the […]
How to do battle with your homeowners association
Homeowners’ Associations, also known as HOAs, are often necessary and helpful — especially in multi-unit dwellings or communities with a lot of common areas — but if you poll your neighbors about whether they enjoy living in one, you’ll likely receive mixed reviews. Read the article……………………………….
Communities Adding Pickleball Should Consider Mitigating Noise Disruptions (FL)
A recent survey of nearly 700 community association managers and board members conducted by the Foundation for Community Association Research found that more than 66 percent of the communities represented in the survey already have or are committed to building pickleball courts. However, of those communities that are embracing and incorporating the fast-growing sport, nearly […]
What You Need to Know About Handling Conflicts of Interest on Your Michigan Condo Board
A condominium association is governed by its board of directors. In Michigan, it is common that members of a board of directors are uncompensated volunteers. It is also common that co-owners elect board members who have a particular set of skills or knowledge relevant to running a condominium, whether that be knowledge of accounting, construction, […]
Compliance with State and County Recording Requirements For Amendment Filings Is No Easy Task (OH)
When associations amend their governing documents, not only must the amendment be approved in the manner prescribed by the governing documents, but it must also comply with both State and County recording requirements. Counties often have additional requirements beyond those included in the State statute. If an amendment does not comply with all requirements, the […]
Essential Fall Maintenance Tasks for Community Associations (NC)
As the leaves change color and the temperature begins dropping, fall presents an excellent opportunity for community associations to prepare their neighborhoods for winter weather. Read the article…………………………..
Condo Insurance Vs. Homeowners Insurance: What’s The Difference?
Having the right type of insurance is important whether you own a single-family house or a condo. Condo insurance and homeowners insurance both cover problems like fire, theft and liability claims against you but they differ in other ways. Read the article………………………………
Understanding Balcony Support Systems: Maintenance, Damage Identification, and Material Choices
Balconies serve not just as a personal outdoor retreat but also as a significant architectural feature for any building. They offer residents a space to enjoy fresh air and views without leaving the comfort of their home. However, a balcony’s functionality and safety are heavily reliant on its structural support system. There are various materials […]
Electrification Is Facing Some Strong Headwinds (NY)
Earlier this week Habitat reported on 420 Beekman Hill, a 110-unit Manhattan co-op that’s replacing the building’s steam heating, cooling and hot water system with rooftop electric heat pumps. The cost of the $3.2 million project is being defrayed by more than $1 million worth of incentives from Con Edison and the New York State […]
Essential Fall Maintenance Tasks for Community Associations
As the leaves change color and the temperature begins dropping, fall presents an excellent opportunity for community associations to prepare their neighborhoods for winter weather. From common areas to landscaping and amenities, there are several tasks board m Read the article………………………………….
HOA Committee Spotlight: Social Committee
Committees are a crucial part of any successful homeowners’ association (HOA). Comprised of volunteers, HOA committees help support the board of directors so they can focus their efforts on accomplishing operational duties and achieving goals. Read the article………………………….
Tips For Reducing HOA Costs During Periods Of High Inflation
A knowledgeable and informed board of directors is key to a successful, well-run HOA. These tips are designed to help your community reduce costs, save money, and keep assessments stable during periods of inflation. Read the article…………………………..
Setting Expectations for Your HOA Management Company
The best relationships between HOAs and the management companies they employ are based on open communication and clear expectations. There is a lot that goes into maintaining property values. However, if you’re not exactly sure what your management company should be doing for your association, it can be difficult to determine if you’re getting the […]
Giving Thanks to the Unsung Heroes of Your HOA
When you stroll the perfectly groomed grounds of your neighborhood or enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your community’s pool, it’s easy to overlook the amount of attention and maintenance required to keep your community looking spectacular. Read the article…………………………
Saving Lives in Your Community Association: Defibrillators (AEDs), Bleeding Control Kits (BCKs), and CERTs
Does your community association have an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) or a Bleeding Control Kit (BCK) on hand in the worst-case scenario and do you have trained people on hand to use these devices? Do you have a gym, pickleball/tennis courts, and other recreational amenities where a cardiac event may be more likely? Listen to […]
‘Tis the Season for HOAs: Preparing for the Holiday Season (CA)
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Communities across the country come alive with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and the sound of carolers singing their favorite tunes. For homeowners’ associations (HOAs), this time of year presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Read the article……………………………
Perseverance Pays Off for the Board of the New Hampshire House (NY)
After a year of intense grassroots efforts, the board at New Hampshire House, a 139-unit condo in Rego Park, Queens, finally succeeded in persuading owners to take out a $3 million loan to repair the building’s facade. The board’s success means the condo will finally be able to perform the necessary repairs mandated under the […]
Pickleball Popularity Comes with Challenges for HOAs
Pickleball, the rapidly growing paddle sport, is taking community associations by storm. Unfortunately, this newfound popularity also has brought with it some challenges, particularly related to the “pok-pok” noise generated when paddle hits ball. Read the article…………………………….
Understanding Balcony Support Systems: Maintenance, Damage Identification, and Material Choices
Balconies serve not just as a personal outdoor retreat but also as a significant architectural feature for any building. They offer residents a space to enjoy fresh air and views without leaving the comfort of their home. However, a balcony’s functionality and safety are heavily reliant on its structural support system. There are various materials […]
Free Speech vs. House Rules: Balancing Both in Contentious Times (NJ)
The First Amendment of the US Constitution guarantees the right to free speech and expression – but how does that right apply to the residents of multifamily co-op or condo buildings? Does it apply at all? Can you – or the guy down the hall in 2B – display political, social, or religious statements from […]
Do Insurance Carriers Follow the Governing Documents? (CA)
Q: Why would a carrier even consider a claim for inside plumbing when our CC&R clearly indicates that inside plumbing issues and damages is the responsibility of the owner? Don’t they read the CC&R when writing the policy? Are we paying extra premium for this inside coverage? Read the Q&A…………………………..
Maintaining Your Elevators: Regular Care Can Help Avoid Huge Replacement Costs
The elevator is one of those inventions—along with running hot and cold water and indoor plumbing—that have been around for so long we take it for granted. But elevators obviously weren’t always a part of the architectural landscape. Without them we’d still be living in a world of six-story buildings (maybe seven for the strong-legged), […]
Effective Committees: Maximizing Use of Community Volunteers
In a typical condo, co-op, or homeowners association, residents have a lot to say about how their building or community is or should be functioning … but few actually step up to run for and serve on the board that does the actual governing. One reason is that board service can be a heavy lift, […]
Surviving the Holiday Season as a Board Member
The holiday season can be a stressful time for board members, but with the right approach, you can navigate it successfully! Managing a community during this busy period and handling the conflicts that often arise doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some valuable tips to help you effectively manage your community and reduce stress […]
Creating electric vehicle charging station policies
When it comes to electric vehicle charging stations in community associations, one consistent theme is who pays for the costs connected with installation and use. The main exception to this issue is when installation will be in common areas and meant for the use of more than just one owner. If an association installs a […]
The How-To’s of ACCs (TX)
A new year is quickly approaching and, after hours of inspiration from watching Fixer Upper, homeowners may be feeling inspired to add on to or remodel the exterior of their homes and update their landscaping. On top of that, the extended drought has led to many needing unexpected repairs, giving owners an excuse to undertake […]
The Essential Role of a Structural Engineer in Condominium and HOA Repair Projects
In today’s evolving infrastructure landscape, the role of a structural engineer is paramount, especially when it comes to repair projects for condominiums or homeowners associations (HOA). Their contribution not only ensures that the repair works are of high quality but also that the process remains transparent and in line with the expectations of the board […]
How to Overcome Homeowner Compliance Challenges in Your HOA (CA)
Misconceptions often plague homeowners’ associations, causing friction and discord among community members. The erroneous belief that all residents automatically read, follow, and never ignore the rules can lead to challenges in ensuring homeowner compliance. These misunderstandings can disrupt the harmony and functionality of an HOA. However, there is a powerful tool that can address these […]
Is It Okay for Our Association to Have a Social Budget?
For many community associations, it is either the middle of budgeting season, or they have just completed this financial review period for the coming year. Budgets include many categories, including maintenance, landscaping, legal, accounting, and management expenses. But what about a line item for social? Is a social budget appropriate or even allowed under the […]
What Your Illinois Homeowners Association Needs To Know About Architectural Control Requirements
Most condominium declarations will limit the ability of a unit owner’ ability to make changes to any structure, improvement, or any of the limited or general common elements within a condominium or common interest community association to preserve the aesthetics of the community. In many cases, deed restrictions will require the unit owner to obtain […]
Maintenance and Insurance-What’s the Difference and Why is it so Hard to Understand? (CO)
Understanding the difference between a maintenance obligation and an insurance obligation is a crucial part of community living. Maintenance and insurance obligations differ between associations depending on how the governing documents are drafted whether the association is classified as a condominium, townhome, or single family community. It is important that an association understand the difference […]