For shared-interest communities, guarding the safety and security of residents is of paramount importance. Achieving those goals is more than a matter of key fobs and cameras, however. It applies to all kinds of hazards within communities’ …
From the outside, the structure of a condo, co-op or townhouse building may appear to be monolithic; just pieces of brick, steel, vinyl or wood, punctuated with some glass here and there. That’s an oversimplification, however. A multifamily…
Water is a necessity for living—but it’s also a potential hazard for all types of buildings, on both micro and macro levels. Whether it’s the result of extreme weather or an internal plumbing leak, water can cause serious damage to building…
The elevator is one of those inventions—along with running hot and cold water and indoor plumbing—that have been around for so long we take them for granted. But elevators obviously weren’t always a part of the architectural landscape. With…
Everyone wants to be comfortable in their home, but as every resident knows, that comfort comes at a price. Boards and managers know this too; with rising energy costs, climate change-related weather fluctuations, and looming fines on the h…
The unique charm of historic properties—both inside and out—is a key draw for many condo and co-op buyers. Exterior ornamentation, ornate brickwork and moldings, inlaid flooring and other vintage features create exactly the kind of ambience…
For most people, their home represents their single biggest investment. And in a multifamily building or homeowners association, both individual units and the entirety of the building or development are part of that investment. In light of …
Your property’s staff—in particular its maintenance staff—is the oil and muscle that keeps your building or HOA in shape and operating from day to day. There’s a reasonable expectation in shared interest communities that the property and it…
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…
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…