Over the years, the various condo boards at a small converted loft building commissioned several facade engineering studies. All of them discovered noticeable cracking and recommended remediation. Each board apparently believed that a long-standing brick building was safe — and they apparently were unwilling to pay for repairs that were not absolutely necessary — and […]
HOA Maintenance Checklist For The Spring (TX)
As Texas spring unfolds it brings warmer weather and blooming landscapes to Dallas and Houston — and signals a crucial time for homeowners associations. Winter’s departure often reveals areas needing attention, and preparing for the incoming summer heat and storm season requires proactive effort. This is where a comprehensive Spring HOA Maintenance Checklist becomes an […]
Key Maintenance Tips for HOA Common Areas (CA)
For homeowner associations (HOAs), maintaining common areas is more than a routine task—it’s a direct reflection of the community’s standards and the board’s commitment to residents. Well-maintained shared spaces promote property values, support resident satisfaction, and minimize long-term repair costs. Whether your HOA oversees a clubhouse, playground, green space, or gated entryway, proactive maintenance is […]
Condo Maintenance Responsibilities Disputed (FL)
Q: As a unit owner, I have come across a provision in our condominium documents that is unclear about maintenance responsibilities. This ambiguity has sparked different interpretations, resulting in disagreements. What is the best way to clarify this provision and resolve the disagreements that stem from it within our community? We would rather hash things […]
Tips for Maintaining Community Association (HOA) Playgrounds
A well-maintained playground is a valuable asset for any homeowners association (HOA), attracting families and fostering a sense of community. However, safety, compliance, and regular upkeep are essential to prevent injuries and liability risks. Here’s what HOA board members and property managers need to consider when maintaining their community playgrounds. Read the article…………………………….
Competitive Bidding… A Primer for Board Members and Managers (FL)
Certain contracts entered into by condominium, cooperative and homeowners’ associations require competitive bidding. These requirements are found in Section 718.3026 of Florida’s Condominium Act, Section 719.3026 of Florida’s Cooperative Act, and Section 720.3055 of Florida’s Homeowners’ Association Act (collectively the “Acts”).
Key Points You Should Know About Elevator Safety (FL)
Associations in Florida must follow strict legal requirements to safeguard against liability and administrative penalties. Pursuant to Section 399.02(5)(b), Florida Statutes, associations are responsible for elevator safety and maintenance after inspection and certification, even if they outsource maintenance services. This includes not only standard elevators but also escalators, dumbwaiters, moving walks, inclined stairway chairlifts, and […]
Spring HOA Tips
As winter melts away and spring starts to bloom, it’s the perfect moment for Homeowners Associations (HOAs) in Austin to prepare for an exciting season ahead. Spring isn’t just about flowers and warmer days; it’s an opportunity for HOAs to enrich their community and boost engagement. Here’s some Spring HOA Tips to help your HOA […]
The Benefits of Implementing a Building Preventative Maintenance Plan
In today’s dynamic commercial environment, maintaining your building’s integrity is more critical than ever. A building preventative maintenance plan is not just a choice but a strategic necessity. For property managers, business owners, and facility managers, this approach offers substantial long-term savings and operational efficiency. Read the article…………………………….
How can your HOA keep common areas safe and well-maintained? (CT)
Every HOA in North Haven values its shared spaces. From pools to playgrounds and clubhouses, these areas bring neighbors together and boost property values. But keeping these spaces in top shape takes more than just regular cleaning. It takes a smart plan to prevent damage and misuse. Read the article…………………………….
Five Tips for Maintaining Compliance with OSHA Standards
Maintaining compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards is essential to fostering a culture of workplace safety, protecting employees, and avoiding citations and penalties. Here are five actionable tips to help you navigate OSHA requirements effectively and ensure your workplace remains compliant. Read the article…………………………….
Six Essential Spring Maintenance Tips for Your Community Association (NC)
Though it’s hard to believe due to the frigid conditions we’ve been experiencing in the Carolinas, spring is just one month away. Spring brings renewal and growth, making it the perfect time for homeowner’s associations (HOAs) to perform essential maintenance tasks. Proactive spring maintenance ensures that your community remains safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing as […]
How HOA Maintenance Can Save Money: 8 Tips for a Transparent and Effective Management
In today’s fast-paced world of community management, HOAs and condo boards are increasingly challenged to maintain properties effectively while keeping a keen eye on budgets. Moreover, reactive repairs are one of the biggest reasons for budget overruns when handling HOA maintenance. These arise when the lack of maintenance, or even an unexpected event, leads to […]
When Experts Chime In: Can HOAs Afford to Tune Them Out?
An HOA receives an engineer’s report warning that a retaining wall on the property is on the brink of failure. The board, focused on other issues and keeping dues low, decides to put the report on the back burner. After all, the wall looks fine from a distance, right? Fast forward a few months, and […]
Watch the Webinar: Interior & Exterior Renovations in Condos and Co-ops in Florida
We recently held an educational webinar with Sidnee Steigerwalt from Pro-Max Restoration & Paint to discuss project planning, management, and design processes for condo renovations. Watch the video………………………….
Tips for Spring Condominium Maintenance (TX)
Spring is just around the corner, and every condominium association knows that this time of year is the perfect time to start tackling some maintenance to work to get the property ready for summer weather. Though Florida winters are mild, properties still tend to need a little bit of extra TLC when spring rolls around. […]
What Does Deferred Maintenance Mean? Avoid Costly Repairs
Moving from the broad topic of maintenance concerns, deferred maintenance becomes a critical concept to understand. It describes any scheduled repair or upkeep that’s postponed due to limited resources—think budget cuts or staffing shortfalls. This isn’t about choosing not to fix something minor; it’s about necessary work getting pushed back, creating a growing list of […]
Should Your Condominium Association Have A Maintenance Matrix? (MI)
Common complaints that co-owners have about the condominium’s master deed and bylaws are that they are poorly written, full of legalese, and are difficult to understand. When it comes to the responsibilities of the condominium association and co-owners to maintain, repair, and replace the common elements and the unit, a maintenance matrix be helpful to […]
Winter Maintenance Tips for HOA Members in the Carolinas: Protect Your Home and Community
As winter approaches in North and South Carolina, it’s crucial for homeowners to proactively maintain their properties to ensure safety, comfort, and efficiency during the colder months. Neglecting these tasks can lead to costly repairs and potential hazards. Read the article…………………………….
Top 7 Tips for Reducing Maintenance Costs in HOA Communities
Managing an HOA budget is like walking a tightrope. You must balance quality services with reasonable costs, all while keeping homeowners happy. Sound overwhelming? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s how you can fine-tune your community’s expenses without sacrificing what makes it unique. Read the article…………………………….
An Association Must be Aware of its Access Rights
From time to time, an association will be confronted with the need to go into or onto an owner’s property for the purpose of undertaking required maintenance as may be authorized by the governing documents. In some instances, the association, in order to prevent further damage to other property, may need to go into a […]
Cold Weather Maintenance & Requirements
As the weather begins to cool, one perennial issue our firm inevitably faces is assisting a board that is dealing with a water pipe that has frozen and ruptured in an owner’s unit. These incidents can cause substantial amounts of damage to the common elements, the unit where the burst pipe is located, and adjacent […]
Winterizing Your Community: Maintenance Tasks Your HOA Can’t Ignore
Are you prepared for a repair bill of up to $5,000 for a single burst pipe? What about a six-figure settlement following a slip-and-fall incident on an icy walkway? These are just two issues your HOA could face if winter preparations aren’t handled early. Winter weather can be unpredictable in most parts of the country, […]
HOA Maintenance Responsibilities: From Fallen Trees to Hurricane Damage (NC)
When natural disasters strike, such as hurricanes or severe storms, community associations often face complex questions about maintenance, repair, and replacement responsibilities. Understanding these responsibilities before an emergency occurs is crucial for both association boards and homeowners. Read the article…………………………….
The Importance of Regular Maintenance and Inspections in HOA Communities
Homeowner’s associations (HOAs) are quickly becoming the norm in the United States, especially in suburban Maryland. Many communities find these volunteer-run organizations crucial for maintaining their neighborhoods’ overall safety, property values, and functionality. Read the article…………………………….
When It Comes to Condominium Maintenance, the Answer Isn’t Always Clear
When considering the maintenance obligations of community associations and condominium owners, the governing principal seems clear: Unit owners are responsible for maintaining and repairing anything within the boundaries of their units; the association is responsible for common areas and components outside of them. But few aspects of community association governance are perfectly clear, and maintenance […]
Essential Pre-Winter Maintenance for Buildings & HOAs: Battening Down the Hatches
As autumn sets in and we savor the crisp air and vibrant foliage, it is time for co-ops, condos, and HOAs to focus on the essential maintenance tasks that can help protect their properties during the winter months. Winter, especially in regions like New England, can be harsh and unpredictable. Proper planning now not only […]
HOA Project Roll-Out
Winter and spring is the time of year that the Board should be arranging and reviewing proposals for fair weather renovation projects. Painting, fencing, pool replastering and roofing are but a few of the major items that fit the profile. There are several practical reasons for starting the process early: Contractors are more available. Winter […]
Condo Playground Maintenance: A Board’s Guide to Managing Common Area Play Spaces (ON)
Condominium life can give families access to amenities they would otherwise not be able to afford had they not chosen to live in a condo complex. One amenity with particular value to families is an on-site playground. Families love to have a safe place for kids to play just steps from home. Read the article…………………………….
How Do Condo Associations Handle Regular Maintenance Costs? (FL)
Owning a condo has its perks—shared amenities like a sparkling pool, well-kept landscaping, and maybe even a gym, all without lifting a finger. But have you ever stopped to think about how all those maintenance tasks get paid for? Let’s dive into how your condo association manages these costs, keeping everything running smoothly behind the […]
Winter Checklist for your Community Association (IL)
Winter maintenance and preparation are essential for condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome associations in cold climates to ensure safety and comfort. Proactive autumn tasks, such as maintaining landscaping, clearing gutters, and preparing irrigation equipment, can minimize winter risks. Read the article…………………………….
HOA Maintenance Checklist Guide
An HOA maintenance checklist is a critical tool for maintaining the beauty, functionality, and property value of your Louisiana community. As an HOA board member or homeowner, understanding the ins and outs of property upkeep is essential. Let’s dive into the details of creating a comprehensive HOA maintenance checklist and explore why regular maintenance is […]
Fall HOA Tips (TX)
As we near the end of the Summer months, it is essential for Associations to gear up for the Fall Season with strategic planning and proactive measures. This time of the year presents the unique opportunity to begin planning and making the crucial decisions to remain ahead of the curve. From reviewing financial reports, planning […]
HOA Maintenance Committee: 6 Key Responsibilities and Best Tips!
Maintaining an HOA is essential for a safe, clean and attractive community. An HOA maintenance committee oversees the upkeep of common areas and amenities to ensure everything stays in good shape. Read the article…………………………….
Where to Look for Winter Damage in Your HOA
Winter is a harsh time for any building or structure. Between the ice, extreme cold, and the variable moisture penetration, almost anything degrades over the course of a snowy winter. As a community association, your job is to help make sure that both homes and common areas are safe as your community enters winter and […]
The Ultimate Guide to Community Association Repairs for Board Members
As community association board members, you hold the key to ensuring that your community remains safe, beautiful, and well-maintained for all residents. From coordinating maintenance schedules to handling emergency repairs, your role is pivotal in upholding the value and appeal of your neighborhood. Read the article…………………………….
Winter Checklist for your Community Association
Winter maintenance and preparation are critical aspects of condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome association management for communities impacted by cold weather, freezing temperatures, and snow. Board members, community leaders, and property managers that proactively address their winter checklist can minimize risks, maximize safety, and work to ensure the comfort of residents throughout the colder months. […]
Guide to Managing Common HOA Maintenance Challenges
Managing the maintenance of a homeowners association can sometimes feel like a never-ending task. From fixing leaky faucets to planning long-term upkeep, there’s a lot to take care of. Whether you’re a new HOA board member or a seasoned homeowner, understanding common maintenance challenges and how to address them can make a big difference. Here’s […]
Maintaining Your Community Pool (AZ)
Your community pools are likely very busy right now as residents attempt to beat the heat! Pools can be an attractive, albeit expensive, amenity for potential owners, especially in warmer climates like we have here in Arizona. It is important for communities to manage and maintain their pools in good condition so that owners can […]
Understanding Concrete Corrosion: Causes, Signs, and Impacts
Corrosion in concrete structures is a critical issue that can significantly impact the safety and longevity of buildings. This post explores the causes of concrete corrosion, its visible signs, and the potential impacts on structural integrity. Read the article…………………………….
The 5 Most Common Repairs After A Hurricane
Living in Florida, hurricanes are one of the most common natural disasters, causing widespread damage to neighborhoods and homes. While they are common, dealing with the damage is no easy task. Here are the 5 most common repairs we proactively plan for Read the article…………………………….
Ask About Incidental Damages Before Starting Your Condo’s Maintenance Project
Incidental damages are damages that are caused by associations to portions of buildings that unit owners are required to maintain. The most common example occurs when an association has its contractor go into a unit and remove portions of the wall or the floor to gain access to common elements which require repair. Incidental damages […]
The Essential Summer Maintenance Strategy for Condo Buildings (IL)
Summer in Chicago is not just a beautiful time of year, but a crucial period for condo associations to focus on essential building maintenance tasks. As the season changes, so do the needs of your property. By ensuring proper upkeep, you’re not just maintaining the property’s safety, functionality, and attractiveness for residents, but also preserving […]
The Essential Summer Maintenance Strategy for Condo Buildings (IL)
As the season changes, so do the needs of your property. By ensuring proper upkeep, you’re not just maintaining the property’s safety, functionality, and attractiveness for residents, but also preserving property values and enhancing the living experience for everyone. A well-thought-out maintenance strategy covering both indoor and outdoor building areas is essential. This approach will […]
State and Federal Condominium Association Repair and Maintenance Funding Initiatives
CAI continues to emphasize the importance of building safety through proactive maintenance measures, financial sustainability, and funding for repairs and maintenance in condominiums, cooperatives, and homeowners associations. Reflecting on the enduring lessons from the devastating Surfside tragedy and the lives lost, CAI remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and resilience of community associations nationwide through […]
Effective Management of HOA Projects: From Planning to Celebration
Managing improvement or infrastructure projects within a Homeowners Association (HOA) is a multifaceted task that requires careful planning, strategic decision-making, and effective communication. Whether the project involves enhancing community amenities, repairing infrastructure, or undertaking significant renovations, each step of the process is crucial to the project’s success. This article explores how HOAs can effectively manage […]
Condo Maintenance and Upkeep: A Comprehensive Guide
Maintaining a condo involves regular care and timely repairs. This ensures a comfortable, safe living environment and preserves property value. Read the article…………………………….
Structural maintenance: Fla. condominium prioritizes prevention
When the Champlain Towers South condominium in Surfside, Fla., partially collapsed three years ago this month, Daniel Gonzalez knew he had work to do at The Admiral’s Walk, the 18-story condominium in Boca Raton where he has served as manager since 2009. Gonzalez called Howard Somers, the condominium’s board president, to develop a plan to […]
Deferring Maintenance In Your HOA
Deferring maintenance in a homeowner association has negative and lasting effects. While postponing maintenance may seem to be a money-saving technique, the consequences are usually a much higher cost over time. Read the article…………………………….