Serving on a homeowner’s association (HOA) management board comes with plenty of challenges. There’s no shortage of responsibilities—budgeting, resident concerns, maintenance, event planning—but there is a shortage of time. Without a clear system in place, tasks can pile up, meetings can stretch on without resolution, and community members can feel unheard. That’s where a well-structured task management strategy makes all the difference.    Read the article…………………………….

It is well-established that Association Board members (directors and officers) have fiduciary duties to their owners and associations. Failure to adhere to them can result in lawsuits against the associations, their directors, and officers. Unfortunately, directors and officers sometimes increase their risk by engaging in behaviors that make lawsuits more likely. So, the question becomes, what are some of these risky behaviors and what can board members do to avoid them?   Read the article…………………………….

Despite wanting to, many board members don’t know the first thing about how to set up a HOA committee. While the exact process can vary from one association to another, there are some crucial items and elements that must not be overlooked. Understanding how committees work and what goes into forming them is essential to all communities.    Read the article…………………………….

Running a community association should – and can! – be a rewarding experience. A well-organized HOA board creates a thriving neighborhood, maintains property values, and fosters strong community relationships. When finances, responsibilities, and communication stay on track, expectations remain clear, operations run smoothly, and both board members and homeowners feel confident in the community association’s leadership.  Read the article…………………………….

There may come a time when an emergency HOA board meeting becomes necessary. However, board members cannot call upon this type of meeting anytime they please. Emergency meetings serve a special purpose and come with their own set of rules and requirements. It is important to understand the ins and outs of emergency board meetings so that they can be used appropriately.   Read the article…………………………….

Homeowners associations (HOAs) handle a vast amount of sensitive information, from HOA data on residents to financial records and vendor agreements. With cyber threats on the rise and small organizations frequently targeted, community associations can no longer afford to overlook data security management. A breach not only compromises privacy but can also lead to financial and legal consequences.    Read the article…………………………….

Is your community located in a popular vacation area? Or experiencing a large public event where the number of people expected exceeds the hotel stock? The short-term rental (STR) market has been booming, especially with popular platforms like Airbnb and VRBO making it easier for people to rent their homes to travelers. But what does this mean for your association, and how should you handle it?    Read the article…………………………….

Authors Jean Eaglesham and Nicole Friedman authored an article which was recently published in the Wall Street Journal. A link to that article can be found here. A few years ago, after the Surfside, Florida disaster in June 2021 where a condominium building collapsed, Fannie Mae updated its requirements for loan approvals in condominium communities throughout the United States. These updated regulations relate to insurance, maintenance, repair, and replacement of common elements, reserve requirements, and deferred maintenance, especially in relation to building structures, among other things.    Read the article…………………………….

Did you know that well-planned HOA amenities can boost home values by up to 30%? Today’s homeowners expect more than just well-maintained streets—they want thoughtfully designed spaces that feel like an extension of their home. Whether it’s reliable Wi-Fi, inviting outdoor areas, or smart technology that simplifies daily tasks, modern residents seek features that enhance their daily lives.   Read the article…………………………….

The HOA Architectural Review Committee plays a critical role in preserving aesthetics and appeal within a planned community. This committee works hand-in-hand with the HOA board to review proposals, inspect for violations, and ensure visual harmony in the neighborhood. Homeowners should familiarize themselves with this committee’s role to better equip themselves for HOA living.     Read the article…………………………….

A homeowners association budget is the financial blueprint that keeps a community association running smoothly. Without a well-planned budget, maintaining property values, funding necessary repairs, and covering day-to-day expenses becomes a challenge. For board members, the budgeting process can feel overwhelming—balancing income and expenses, preparing for unexpected costs, and keeping reserve funds at the right level all require careful attention.     Read the article…………………………….

Dealing with a neighbor’s noisy bird can be a tricky situation for any HOA. Birds are beautiful creatures, but sometimes their loud calls or singing can disrupt the peace of a neighborhood. Board members of an HOA must understand how to address noisy bird complaints that come from homeowners. Sometimes, they might not need addressing at all.   Read the article…………………………….

They say first impressions last and nowhere is that truer than in your HOA community. A well-maintained neighborhood not only welcomes residents and guests but also boosts property values and builds community pride. Fortunately, creating that high-end look doesn’t require an extravagant budget. With strategic, budget-friendly changes, your community can shine.   Read the article…………………………….

In September of 2022, the Ohio Legislature adopted several changes to the state’s condominium statute. One of those changes was to O.R.C 5311.081(A), which removed language saying that at least 10% of an association’s annual budget must be devoted to reserves unless waived annually by a majority vote of the owners. The update also removed the reference, “unless otherwise provided in the Declaration and Bylaws” so this now means only the statute provides the requirement for reserves no matter what the Declaration and Bylaws may state. Associations always had an obligation to fund reserves properly.     Read the article…………………………….

Who should not serve on a HOA board? For many associations, navigating the ins and outs of board member qualifications can be challenging. However, it is essential to set specific criteria for board membership. This will allow the HOA to control the quality of directors who serve the community while simultaneously ensuring the association’s success.    Read the article…………………………….

A thriving community doesn’t just happen—it’s built one connection at a time. Events bring neighbors together, foster engagement, and create memories that last a lifetime. For community associations and event planning committees, hosting activities throughout the year is an opportunity to strengthen bonds, celebrate diversity, and keep your neighborhood vibrant.  Read the article…………………………….

Winter brings a magical transformation, blanketing communities with snow and sparkling frost—but with it comes the need for a proactive winter plan. Snow and ice can quickly turn winter wonderlands into challenging landscapes, especially in shared spaces.   Read the article…………………………….

The holiday season brings warmth, togetherness, and festive spirit. But while neighbors are exchanging cookies and celebrating, there’s also the unfortunate risk of unwanted “visitors” like porch pirates (people who steal packages from the intended recipient’s porch) and vandals. In bustling communities, package theft and holiday mischief tend to spike, especially as online orders increase.    Read the article…………………………….

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 units that may be affected by the resulting water leak. Further, given the nature of the issue, these incidents often occur at inconvenient times and require prompt action.   Read the article…………………………….

As the holidays approach, festive decorations, flickering candles, and cozy fires warm our homes—but they also bring heightened fire risks. Each year, decorations cause a significant number of household fires, especially during December.  This season, keep safety top of mind for yourself and your community with our holiday fire safety checklists to protect both your home and shared spaces. Download our printable fire safety checklists to easily inspect your surroundings, making sure every area is ready for a safe, festive celebration. Because when it comes to the holidays, we all want memories that are merry—not ‘memorable’ in the way that would warrant a visit from Fire Marshall Bill!     Read the article…………………………….

What if your community could attract more homebuyers, maintain strong property values, and offer easier financing options—all with just a few strategic certifications? That’s exactly what FHA and VA certifications can do for your community. These certifications help expand financing options for a broader range of buyers, boosting your community’s value and ensuring long-term financial stability. If you’re looking to make your community more competitive in the housing market, understanding the power of FHA and VA certifications is the first step – so let’s learn more.    Read the article…………………………….

Hosting Thanksgiving gatherings in HOA communities involves extra things to consider beyond party food and activities. From guest rules to noise regulations, homeowners should know how to balance their parties with HOA guidelines. Otherwise, the HOA could slap a violation on you and even charge a monetary fine.   Read the article…………………………….

The holidays are upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by bringing your community together for a festive community association holiday party? Whether you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland or planning a spirited Ugly Sweater Contest, hosting a jolly event is the perfect way to spread goodwill and build connections.    Read the article…………………………….

Ohio condominium law reserve funds play a crucial role in maintaining the financial health and stability of condominium associations. These funds are essential for long-term financial planning and preserving property values. By setting aside money for future repairs and replacements, associations can avoid sudden special assessments and ensure the community’s continued well-being.      Read the article…………………………….

As a board member for a condominium or homeowners’ association, understanding the importance of a well written contract for service agreements and capital improvement projects is key. Contracts without specific terms and conditions and a clear scope of work usually mean a recipe for misunderstandings between both the board and the contractor or vendor. It is more cost effective overall to have contracts reviewed by legal counsel before any documents are signed, than it is after the fact only to find in some instances, the association has little or no recourse against the contractor or vendor.   Read the article…………………………….

Moving into a new home is an exciting experience, but when your new community is governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA), there are additional factors to consider. HOAs come with a set of rules, regulations, and expectations that every resident must follow to protect and foster their thriving community.    Read the article…………………………….

Halloween is creeping up, and it’s time for your HOA to brew up plans for a safe and spook-tacular celebration. With witches, goblins, and little monsters roaming the streets, it’s important to ensure safety and community spirit. Your HOA can be the hero of the night, like Frankenstein and his monster, with the right tricks (and treats) up its sleeve.    Read the article…………………………….

As a member of your Homeowners Association’s (HOA) board, you’re responsible for more than just managing community concerns — you also have legal obligations to meet. One of the newest and most important regulations that could impact your association is the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). Ignoring this act could lead to significant penalties, which makes understanding it essential for every HOA board.  Read the article…………………………….

Managing a Homeowners Association (HOA) is no small feat.  As board members, you often juggle many responsibilities, from overseeing maintenance projects and financial management to addressing the concerns and needs of your community residents. As these tasks grow more complex, you might find that bringing on the right community manager can make a significant difference in the smooth operation and overall harmony of your neighborhood.   Read the article…………………………….

In today’s technology-driven world, the management of community associations has evolved significantly. Technology is not only reshaping personal and professional interactions but also revolutionizing how communities are managed.  While modern technology offers innovative solutions that streamline processes and foster better connections among your residents, it is important to be aware of potential drawbacks.   Read the article…………………………….

Effective governance is the backbone of any community association. The board of directors plays a pivotal role in overseeing the association’s affairs and making decisions that impact the entire community. However, navigating the complexities of governance requires more than just good intentions—it requires a solid understanding of legal principles and best practices. Here are a few legal tips for community association boards to ensure effective operations and decision-making:   Read the article…………………………….

Community associations are founded on principles of shared responsibility and collective maintenance. From maintaining common elements to providing essential services, every member’s contribution in the form of assessments is vital. However, ensuring timely payment of these assessments can often be challenging. This underscores the importance of establishing a robust policy and procedure for collecting assessments. Such a framework serves as a roadmap for addressing delinquent assessments and directs the collection efforts of the law firm representing the community.   Read the article…………………………….

In today’s digital age, online platforms and social media have become effective tools for communication and community engagement. These forums can be an easy and efficient method for boards to communicate with owners. In these instances, the board controls the online content.  But, what about online platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, started by an owner, or group of owners, to facilitate communication and share information? Owners who start a community Facebook page, or other online platform, often have good intentions, and there may be some benefits. However, the use of online platforms by owners also presents challenges, such as the rapid spread of misinformation that can negatively impact the reputation and cohesion of the community.   Read the article…………………………….

Do you have a pet, or have you ever owned one?  Owning a pet is a source of joy and companionship for many people. However, in an HOA (Homeowners Association) community, managing pets can be a complex balancing act. It requires careful consideration and thoughtful regulation to ensure pet owners can enjoy their furry friends while maintaining the harmony and cleanliness of the community.   Read the article…………………………….

One of the most common challenges that associations and their property managers face is effectively enforcing parking rules within a community. Parking spaces are often limited in quantity, particularly in communities located in urban areas, and families now routinely have multiple vehicles. Further, parking disputes are typically visible for all to see and can quickly enflame the passions of all the parties involved.   Read the article…………………………….

One of the most common questions HOA and condominium boards get from their owners is “What can we do about the rentals?” In many cases, the occupancy of homes by renters can be limited or prohibited altogether by an amendment to the declaration or, in more limited circumstances, by a rule adopted by the Board. It is important, however, that boards consider all the relevant information prior to adopting a leasing restriction to ensure that it adequately meets the needs of their community.   Read the article…………………………….

While all of us here at Williams & Strohm, LLC look forward to and enjoy watching fireworks with our friends and families during the Fourth of July holiday, the close living situations that exist in many condominiums and subdivisions typically makes these communities inappropriate locations for the use of fireworks. As Ohio has updated its laws to allow more freedom to citizens to use fireworks within the state, boards must now take extra care to make sure they have adopted appropriate rules governing the use of fireworks within their communities.    Read the article…………………………….

When I first started practicing community association law, I was warned about the 3 P’s – pools, pets, and parking. While I have certainly dealt with issues involving the 3 P’s, they have not consumed nearly as much time as other issues. I attribute that, in part, to our firm’s proactive approach to educating our clients about these issues and assisting them with putting frameworks in place to limit issues before they arise. With pool season starting in earnest this weekend, this post is a reminder of some of the unique issues and liabilities that pools create and the best ways to limit those liabilities.   Read the article…………………………….

Community associations are founded on principles of shared responsibility and collective maintenance. From maintaining common elements to providing essential services, every member’s contribution in the form of assessments is vital. However, ensuring timely payment of these assessments can often be challenging. This underscores the importance of establishing a robust policy and procedure for collecting assessments. Such a framework serves as a roadmap for addressing delinquent assessments and directs the collection efforts of the law firm representing the community.   Read the article…………………………….

Earlier this year, I blogged on the case of Johnson v. Board of Directors of Forest Lakes Master Association, 454 P.3d 623 (2019) unpublished (Kansas) and explained how improperly passing and/or filing amendments can be VERY expensive. This is true in every state, and today we learn of another way that amendment errors can be costly.    Read the article…………………………….

Effective governance is the backbone of any community association. The board of directors plays a pivotal role in overseeing the association’s affairs and making decisions that impact the entire community. However, navigating the complexities of governance requires more than just good intentions—it requires a solid understanding of legal principles and best practices. Here are a few legal tips for community association boards to ensure effective operations and decision-making:    Read the article…………………………….

In the complex realm of managing condominium and homeowner associations, disputes with contractors and other critical business decisions can unexpectedly arise. Successful navigation through these challenges requires proactive measures, clear communication, and careful decision-making. In this guide, we explore how to handle dispute settlements, important business choices, and the significance of release agreements for associations.   Read the article…………………………….

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 foundation for every action an association takes   Read the article…………………………….

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…………………………….

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 outside their homes. Then, come fall, residents may want to display signs showing their support for political candidates or other important issues. This is why winter is a great time for board members to prepare for potential sign issues they may face throughout the year.   Read the article…………………………….

February is the time of year when those of us in Ohio start thinking about sunnier and warmer days to come. For many people, that means making plans for summer projects and improvements to their homes. Establishing architectural standards and reviewing applications for exterior improvements is one of the most important jobs for many HOA and condominium boards, and this is a great time for board members to review procedures and ensure that their association is handling that responsibility properly.   Read the article…………………………….

Imposing an enforcement assessment, commonly referred to as a “fine,” on an unruly owner or property is a popular and usually effective mechanism for enforcing rules within a condominium or subdivision. Fines alone, however, cannot address all scenarios and must be imposed in accordance with applicable laws.Read the article…………………………….

Being a member of a condominium or homeowners’ association board of directors has its challenges. One of those challenges is keeping up with new information related to community associations and board responsibilities on the state and federal level. This blog covers new federal reporting requirements for both condominium and homeowners’ association board members.   Read the article…………………………..

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 County will refuse to record the amendment.   Read the article…………………………….

As winter arrives, associations and community association managers must prepare for the inevitable task of establishing smooth and safe snow removal operations. While hiring a professional snow removal service is essential, paying close attention to the language contained in these contracts is equally crucial. Unclear wording can result in legal complications piling up as rapidly as snowflakes. To avoid such issues and limit the risk of liability, it is imperative to review your snow removal contract to ensure it includes the following key elements.    Read the article……………………………