Board Influence on Inside Maintenance Responsibilities
Condominium, homeowners associations, or cooperative Board Members' responsibilities fall upon what is visible: outside maintenance such as landscaping, lighting, and facilities maintenance. So who typically responsible for inside maintenance? These issues usually include heating and cooling systems, dryer vents, and plumbing. Homeowners should focus their efforts on maintaining these systems, as they can impact the overall health and safety of the community. How can Board Members effectively make sure everyone in the community is doing their part on the upkeep of the inside of their homes? We are here to answer your questions about inside maintenance responsibilities.
Board Influence on Inside Maintenance Responsibilities
Whether the community is a condominium, homeowners association, or cooperative, the owner or shareholder will always be responsible for certain maintenance items within the home. In some instances, the Board can exercise control over such responsibilities. Still, there are many areas where the ability to influence owner behavior is limited.
Board Influence on Device Safety
Take the case of a central fire/smoke/sprinkler system wired throughout a building. The Board may be obligated by its governing documents to maintain the system even though the location of some detectors is within a unit. An annual inspection, which is required by local ordinance, is conducted to make sure these systems are operating correctly.
Other systems, such as dryer vents, can be a mixed responsibility. Unfortunately, there is much gray area with this issue. For instance, the conduit may originate within the unit but may enter a common area on its way to a roof or other exterior vent. In this case, the Board could adopt the position that cleaning of the conduit is a typical expense, and it could hire a contractor to perform the work.
Board Influence on Appliance Safety
Appliances located within the unit are the clear responsibility of the owner. This responsibility can cause safety concerns if owners choose not to maintain their machines. Nonetheless, a board can identify potential problems and conduct a campaign to urge accountability among residents. For example, notices on bulletin boards, newsletters, or the website for annual inspections of water heaters can help mitigate issues. Another idea is to have the Board designate a "safety month" to encourage residents to address a list of safety issues in their homes.
Boards should invite their insurance brokers or representative to the annual meeting or other community events. Having these people there to explain the steps owners could take to protect themselves, the building, and their neighbors are beneficial.
A final option is to amend the bylaws to require owners to perform certain maintenance functions in their units regularly. However, obtaining sufficient support for such an amendment may be difficult, as may be enforcement of the rule if it is adopted.
Condominium Associate's Is Here to Help
Do you need your property manager to help you establish expectations for your homeowners? Do not hesitate to contact our leadership team for assistance. We are here to provide administrative support. We are here to help our Board Members feel comforting confronting their community's concerns. Most of all, we want you to know that we are an approachable bunch that enjoys our jobs and working with you on the day-to-day requirements of your association.