The aftermath from the multi-day barricade in Henderson remains. The face of the townhome where the suspect was barricaded is still ripped off from the incident, over two weeks later. According to the City of Henderson, the community’s Homeowner Association will be responsible for paying for repairs to the structure of the building, and the […]
Voter-approved changes to debt collection aren’t unconstitutionally vague, appeals court rules (AZ)
The Arizona Court of Appeals on Tuesday rejected a lawsuit filed by debt collectors and homeowners associations that sought to void the debt reforms that voters overwhelmingly approved in 2022 when they passed Proposition 209. The lenders, debt collectors and HOAs alleged that the guidelines for wage garnishment in Prop. 209 were too vague and […]
Two Rivers Services to Help Private Condo Group (WI)
Buckley says the condo association was developed with private infrastructure and the maintenance of roadways and sewer systems is their priority. However, the agreement will allow the city to flush the private water and sewer mains and collect leaves. Read the article…………………………….
Australia Op/Ed: There’s more trouble coming for apartment owners. Here’s why
The Netstrata insurance scandal rocked the strata management industry in NSW but that’s just the beginning as an independent inquiry starts to dig deeper. Strata management in NSW is in turmoil after an ABC TV expose in March alleged that the strata managing giant Netstrata has been benefitting from significant hidden income via its insurance […]
Ukraine: In Odesa region, a condominium association received 40% savings due to thermal modernization of a building
“We started the energy modernization of the house back in 19. At that time, we had the highest tariff in the city. We searched for a long time for ways to save money and came across the wonderful “Energodim” program. Then there was a lot of preparatory work, because at that time there were no […]
Effective Committees – Maximizing Use of Community Volunteers
In a typical co-op, condo, 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, […]
You Have Been Assessing Me Too Much! Square Footage Allocation Discrepancies (CO)
For homeowners’ associations whose assessment allocations are based on square footage of units, problems may arise if the developer used incorrect square footages in the calculations and an owner discovers such discrepancy (especially if the owner is paying a higher assessment than they would otherwise). Owners who discover such discrepancies will likely complain to the […]
Collecting When the Homeowner is Deceased (CO)
Unfortunately, sometimes homeowners pass away. When that happens and the homeowner owes a balance to the association, boards often have many questions about what that means and what they should be doing. First and foremost, remember that the heirs are grieving their loved one. Board members are often torn between wanting to be respectful of […]
The Headless HOA (or Co-op or Condo) Can a Common-Interest Community Exist without a Board? (NY)
CooperatorNews recently received a question from a reader along these lines. The individual is the current president of her association in an unspecified city. She and her current board colleagues all plan to step down this year, but no one from her 20-unit building submitted their candidacy paperwork when the notice to do so was […]
Condo Smarts: Strata fees apply even when owners vacate for building repairs (BC)
Dear Tony: Our building experienced a major flood during the cold snap in January. Everyone had to move out to allow the restoration contractor in for repairs. We are one of three buildings and the owners and tenants have no control over the process of repairs; however, our strata council has given us notice that […]
Q&A: Signs, Signs, Everywhere a Sign (MA)
Q. As election season approaches, I am anticipating—in light of the current divisive nature of our society—that we’re going to see some political battles arising in our condominium community. Over the past year or so, we’ve seen some residents posting flags or signage in their windows related to support for Ukraine, and more recently, Israeli […]
Aesthetic Rules Balancing Community Value with Individual Rights
In the world of single-family homes, property owners can do pretty much whatever they want when it comes to the look of their place. They can paint their house bright purple, for instance. Or display Christmas or Halloween decorations that are so bright or scary they may keep the neighbors up at night. Clearly, the […]
Experts say lack of condo-building comes down to risk, returns (UT)
Developers aren’t building condos in Utah because of design constraints, equity investment issues and the promise of a lower return for a much higher risk, according to a panel of industry experts and interviews with lenders. The answers come after the share of condos fell to a record low in recent years in Utah and […]
ManorLane Launches Landlord and HOA Review Platform for Renters & Tenants
ManorLane, a cutting-edge platform designed to empower tenants through landlord ratings and review channels, makes its debut today. The much-anticipated website facilitates tenant feedback and nurtures community engagement. Read the article…………………………….
What You Need To Know About HO6 Insurance
Life in a townhome offers a vibrant blend of community and convenience but just like any home, unexpected events can disrupt your peace of mind. That’s where HO6 insurance steps in as your reliable ally! Think of it as a security blanket protecting your personal belongings from unexpected downpours, both literal and metaphorical. Many people […]
Is it Possible to Contest Assessments by Co-Op and Condo Boards? (NY)
Co-op shareholders and condo unit-owners dread the news that their board is levying an assessment on top of monthly charges. Lately, that dread has shaded to raw terror as boards grapple with ways to pay for costly retrofits that might be required to bring their building’s carbon emissions into compliance with Local Law 97. Read […]
Dive In & Thrive: Optimizing Your Community Pool
As the sunny days of summer beckon, it’s crucial to recognize that the upkeep of a community pool demands year-round attention. Not only does a pool enhance property values, but it also serves as a cherished sanctuary for families and individuals alike. From providing a space for children to frolic in the sun to offering […]
Laketown Wharf evacuation latest (FL)
Several residents remain vacated after Panama City Beach officials issued a mandatory evacuation for Laketown Wharf on Front Beach Road. Residents in 63 units have until Saturday at 6 p.m. to pack their belongings and relocate due to a safety hazard. According to officials they received a complaint on April 4th from a guest about […]
Philippines: Lob thy neighbor: Homeowners’ war in Dasmariñas Village heats up with Loinaz- Arroyo group aiming to topple Fortun’s group
A leadership battle involving abogados, milyonaryos and veteran bankers is shaping up inside Dasmariñas Village, home to some bilyonaryos and celebrities. Two camps are fighting for control of the homeowners association inside one of the most exclusive enclaves in the country, where prices of properties range from P110 million to P1.3 billion. Read the article…………………………….
After paying into condo association, O’Fallon residents want answers after getting storm damage bill (MO)
Within homeowners and condominium associations, residents often find themselves embroiled in disputes over accountability, transparency, and financial responsibility. The I-Team has uncovered that many of these types of associations are struggling to manage soaring insurance premiums and having trouble meeting their obligations Read the article…………………………….
Beaver dam builds concern for nearby neighborhood (KY)
The first time around, local council representative Brenda Monarrez granted $2,500 in neighborhood development funds to remove the dam. The removal process cost $4,800 in total. This second dam has sat for over a month, and neighbors shared some frustration as their homeowner’s association has not decided how to remove the dam. Read the article…………………………….
CTA Heats Up with New FAQs, Government and Amicus Briefs and New Draft Legislation
The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) is the gift that keeps giving. As affected entities and their advisers struggle to determine whether they are subject to the beneficial ownership information (BOI) reporting provisions of the CTA and, if so, how to report, there has been a flurry of activity: Read the article…………………………….
5 Community Association Management Trends to Watch in 2024
The rise of community associations across the U.S. holds promise for management companies in 2024—but companies also need to be prepared to face a unique set of challenges in the coming year. Which opportunities and obstacles will association managers face in 2024, and how are they adapting their strategies in this evolving environment? HomeWiseDocs surveyed […]
Guarding your Association’s Finances: Best Practices to Combat Payment Fraud
Community Association Management companies are under siege from high-tech conmen determined to rip them off. From check fraud and Business Email Compromise (BEC) attacks to account takeovers and vendor impersonation, fraudsters have become more brazen and more sophisticated. Mailbox keys purchased on the Dark Web or stolen from postal carriers have made it easy for […]
RI developer accused of ‘shoddy’ and substandard work ordered to pay over $750K in damages
A Superior Court judge on Monday upheld an arbitration award of more than $750,000 to owners of a condominium complex who say the developer performed shoddy and substandard work when he renovated their building in 2019. Read the article…………………………….
From condo to co-op: can owners avoid Florida’s structural reserves law by changing labels?
Question: Can we convert to a co-op to avoid these onerous regulations? Answer: Your question doesn’t specify which “onerous regulations” you are referring to. You simply labeled your question “condominium laws.” What I can tell you, though, is that cooperatives are governed by Section 719, Fla. Stat. (the Cooperative Act), which is extremely similar to, […]
FirstService Residential Raises the Bar on Responsive Communication
FirstService Residential, Metro Vancouver’s leading property management company, has raised the bar when it comes to responsive communication in strata management through the introduction of their Resident Support Services (RSS). Read the article…………………………….
Co-Ops and Condos Are Exempt From Good Cause Eviction Law (NY)
Good Cause Eviction bills have been bouncing around Albany for years, and most co-op and condo boards have viewed them as a bad idea, one more unwelcome governmental intrusion. The state Legislature has finally passed a Good Cause Eviction bill, but it is limited in scope and, crucially, it will not apply to co-ops and […]
Condo Roofs Becoming Home to Protected Birds (FL)
Many individuals residing in Florida community associations are attracted to their homes by the favorable climate and natural beauty, such as what is found along its beaches. Such conditions have served as the catalyst for much of the development within the state’s coastal areas. However, while the proliferation of communities within Florida’s coastline has allowed […]
Georgia House Bill 220
On April 23, 2024, Georgia’s Governor Brian Kemp signed House Bill 220 into law, marking a significant shift in how community associations, including condominium and homeowners associations, can handle violations of their covenants Read the article…………………………….
B.C. strata must allow injured woman to keep inflatable hot tub on deck
B.C.’s Civil Resolution Tribunal has ordered a New Westminster strata to allow a woman injured in a car accident to have an inflatable hot tub on her balcony. Owner Margaret Cupples sustained serious injuries in a January 2020 motor vehicle accident, tribunal vice-chair Garth Cambrey said in his April 24 decision. She borrowed an inflatable […]
B.C. management company must pay strata for late bill payments
B.C.’s Civil Resolution Tribunal has ordered a management company to pay a Langley strata for failure to comply with its contract or provide adequate services. The strata said Quay Pacific Property Management Ltd. owed it $4,837 in damages for the failure to pay bills, late payment fees and copying and postage charges, Read the article…………………………….
Understanding Fiduciary Duty For Co-op and Condo Board Directors (NY)
Serving as a board director entails a range of obligations, and it’s not uncommon for newcomers to underestimate the scope of their responsibilities. Individuals are drawn to board positions with varied motives, ranging from personal interests to community objectives or concerns about finances. However, despite their eagerness to contribute, most new board members are unaware […]
Condo Associations Struggling to Find Directors (FL)
The firm’s latest Miami Herald column titled “Do We Have Any Volunteers? Condo Associations Struggling to Find Directors,” was authored by Gabriella M. Ruiz. The article focuses on how rising association budgets and special assessments can be a recipe for hostility and dissent that becomes too much to bear for even the most ardent and […]
The United States of Termites: How the Tiny, Traveling Pests Are Taking Over—And Where They’re Going Next
From stink bugs to ants and even ladybugs, there’s no shortage of pests that can terrorize and take over your home. Thankfully, some of the best pest control companies or DIY methods can help eradicate unwelcome visitors and infestations. Termites, however, are in a class of their own. When left unchecked, they are some of […]
Renter says HOA board member is harassing her (NV)
Q: I recently read your article about Nevada laws and residential bullying. I appreciate the ethos of the article and addressing where manners of reason may often go wrong. I feel as if I, a renter, am experiencing harassment from an individual on the HOA board, who lives across from me. Her car is parked […]
The low-maintenance, eco-friendly lawn that will still impress your neighbors
This year, a Tasmanian yard that hadn’t been watered in 10 years and featured a dead brushtail possum won the title of ugliest lawn in the world. The contest, organized by the island of Gotland in Sweden, rewards those who turn over their yards to nature to save water and change the world’s perception of […]
How Past Discriminatory Real Estate Practices Have Impacted Coronado (CA)
“What happened is a darker chapter in American history that occurred from the 1920s to the 1960s which involved racially restrictive practices in real estate,” said Ashley. “Coronado was not immune.” Read the article…………………………….
Banning bulk billing threatens to impair broadband access
The importance of high-speed internet in today’s world cannot be overstated — impacting everything from telehealth, to remote learning, to small business growth. Thanks to the Biden Administration’s effort to bridge the digital divide through broadband infrastructure and affordability programs included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re making great strides in expanding connectivity to underserved […]
Florida Governor Signs House Bill 1029 Into Law
This act intends to provide condominium associations with a program similar to the My Safe Florida Home Program by establishing what is known as the My Safe Florida Condominium Pilot (MSFCP) Program. Eligible condominiums can now apply for mitigation grants to help harden their buildings in an effort to mitigate hurricane damage. Read the article…………………………….
Family of Ralph Yarl files civil suit against Andrew Lester, homeowners association (MO)
The family of Ralph Yarl filed a civil lawsuit early Monday against Andrew Lester and the homeowner’s association in connection to the shooting in April 2023 that left Yarl severely injured. In addition to criminal charges filed last year against Lester, Monday’s lawsuit states the 80-year-old and the Highland Acres Homes Association were careless and […]
Roofing Changes Usually Require Member Vote (FL)
Q: Our condominium association is thinking about changing roofing materials. Our bylaws say that a majority of the unit owners who participate in a meeting can decide any issue, “unless a specific voting percentage is stipulated in the declaration, these bylaws or law.” Does this mean that a majority of the unit owners can approve […]
Pool Preparations for Your HOA
Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s almost time for pool season. Maintaining the perfect oasis is about more than just warm weather and water. Creating a safe, positive environment for residents to escape, unwind, and make cherished memories requires an ongoing process of routine checks, equipment upgrades, and meticulous planning. Read the […]
What Can Be Done About Solar Panels? (FL)
If you are living in a Homeowners Association the Board or the Architectural Review Committee generally cannot prohibit the installation of solar panels (or “solar collectors”). A Florida law, F.S. 163.04, provides that any “deed restriction or declaration” or even any “similar binding agreement” may not prohibit — or have the effect of prohibiting — […]
What to Do if You Receive a Complaint or Subpoena
If your community association is served with a complaint or subpoena, you must promptly forward it to the community association’s legal counsel. As explained in this article, receipt of a complaint or subpoena triggers time sensitive legal obligations that can expose your community association to serious liability. Read the article…………………………….
Industry groups applaud new energy codes set by HUD, USDA
The newly adopted code requirements are designed to strengthen efficiency requirements for new houses and multifamily units that are purchased with federally backed loans such as Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and USDA mortgages, along with new homes with funding from other HUD programs. These new homes are primarily occupied by low- and moderate-income homeowners and […]
Some Hawaii residents pursue member-owned insurance cooperative
After most of the recently proposed legislative solutions have failed, Puna residents are hoping they can solve their district’s impending housing insurance crisis. When the last major home insurer announced last year that it would be leaving the Hawaii market by August of this year, homeowners in Lava Zones 1 and 2 discovered that their […]
Batiki West opens back up – Fort Myers Beach condo building one of few back in operation (FL)
Like many other condo buildings on Fort Myers Beach, Batiki West was uninhabitable for more than a year after Hurricane Ian. It needed a new roof. It still needs a new elevator. While many other buildings are still waiting to reopen though, Smith has been able to open Batiki West just in time for condo […]
A heaping, scrap metal mess: Port Liberté residents sue neighbor Sims Metal over noise, health issues (NJ)
It has been a hot mess, both metaphorically and literally, for condominium residents living next to a scrapyard on the city’s Hudson River waterfront. “Excessive” noise, dust blowing over, bright lights at night and even fires and explosions are among the many complaints against the scrapyard from those residing right across the channel at the […]