Understanding the scope of association insurance coverage is basic to protecting the vital interests of the owners. Do you understand what the association’s duties are when a fire, windstorm or burst pipe damages the common elements or unit interiors? The association’s insurance duties are addressed in the governing documents (sometimes called CC&Rs – Covenants, Conditions & Restrict... read more

In many homeowners’ associations, frustration is lurking just below the surface, waiting to explode into anger. Frustration is the result of unfulfilled expectations. These expectations can be reasonable or unreasonable, mature or immature. Mature expectations are thoughtful considerations colored by fairness. These folks will generally resolve their issues in a win-win fashion. Immature expecta... read more

The past few years have seen association insurance premiums rise dramatically. Whereas deductibles on association policies were typically $1,000 not many years ago, today it is more common for associations to have $2,500, $5,000 or even $10,000 deductibles. As insurance deductibles continue to increase, associations are reviewing how to allocate those deductibles. Insurance professionals note that... read more

The swimming pool is an important amenity for any HOA. The pool promotes relaxation and social interaction while offering homeowners a place to enjoy much-needed exercise. Swimming is often called the “perfect exercise” because it exercises almost all muscles and burns calories without stressing joints and muscles. However, for this to be possible, water temperature must be comfortable... read more

Homeowners’ associations are often called on to provide security in some form or another. Some provide controlled entry gates or access, security guards, video cameras and other high-tech gadgetry. Others build fences and moats (you heard right…with volunteer alligators…in Florida). All of this is costly, but does it really do the trick? Security is mostly perception subject to perso... read more

No two painting projects are alike. Types and conditions of materials to be painted, complexity of architectural features, types and degree of weather exposures, impact of landscape features and shade configurations all make a big difference in a well-conceived painting program. Even the purpose of painting can vary from one project to the next. Painting may address preventive maintenance, aesthet... read more