Among the most important elements of building maintenance is inspecting and securing the facade, whether it’s brick, stone, stucco, glass, or some other material. Improper installation, neglected maintenance, and plain old natural deteriora…
New England’s trustees and managers know what a tall order it is to run an HOA, condo association or co-op; from structural maintenance to interpersonal communication and conflict resolution, the skills and strengths that make for effective…
Q. I pay HOA fees for maintenance that includes landscaping, but not all areas of our development are the same; some streets have ornamental trees and a minimal amount of leaves falling, while my block is swamped with leaves on the ground…
Q. I live in a mid-rise condominium, and my next door neighbor is a hoarder. She frequently leaves her door open, so it’s easy to see that there’s a serious problem. I complained to the building management several times, but nothing has i…
While condo associations in many parts of the country occupy towering high-rise buildings or sprawl across vast suburban acreages, small condominium associations—those consisting of 10 units or fewer—are more the norm in New England; indeed…
Just as a ship cannot steer without its captain, a board cannot function effectively without its president. Serving as the administrative head, this volunteer position is vital for ensuring the smooth operation of a condo, co-op, or HOA boa…
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 reg…
As members of co-op corporations and condominium associations, we often hear the term fiduciary duty bandied about. But what does it really mean to be a fiduciary? Stated simply, the term ‘fiduciary’ means trust. When a person managing the…
Homeownership is a long-term commitment for most. In the context of a multifamily community like a condo or co-op, it’s not unusual for many owners and shareholders in the building to have purchased their units around the same time in early…
A community’s governing documents, including its bylaws and house rules, are like a country’s constitution and laws. They are—or at least they should be—‘living’ documents that like our state and national laws and constitution, occasionally…