We base the best relationships between HOAs and the management companies on open communication and clear expectations. However, suppose you're not exactly sure what your management company should be doing for your association. In that case, it can be challenging to determine if you're getting the total value of your service agreement. Here's how to set appropriate expectations with your management company—and why it's crucial.

Under Florida law, an association attempting to enforce a covenant or restriction against one homeowner while allowing another homeowner to violate the same regulation without consequences constitutes selective enforcement. Unfortunately, this is a common problem for association boards.

In the months after the devastating collapse of Champlain Tower South Condominium Association in Surfside, Florida, residents and board members are questioning how to keep themselves and their property safe.

Most board members take their position seriously. However, there are a fair number of potential pitfalls and possible liability issues if a board member isn't careful. For these reasons, it can be a huge advantage to work with a community association manager who can help board members avoid snags and ensure the association runs smoothly.

A homeowners association is the cornerstone of a planned community. When run properly, it brings continuity, preserves architectural integrity, maintains common areas, protects property values, and promotes the concept of "community." Every association should be responsible for its assets and operation following state laws and the community's governing documents.

Has your board instituted an ethics policy for all directors and committees? Typically, the first requirement is that all nominees for directors sign a confidentiality promise never to sue the board. So, if a board member does something wrong, illegal or unethical, how can the HOA get relief?

There are numerous considerations when allowing third parties to use a common area clubhouse to provide classes or other services. However, it is the facilitation of exercise classes that raises the most concern.

For many associations, the Board of Directors' most significant issue is dealing with demanding homeowners. Even the most even-tempered folks have "hot buttons." Dealing with the emotions entwined in ownership of one's home can push those buttons and create problems in an association.

Does your community association manage a playground? You may be wondering what you can do to make sure you and your family are safe and compliant. Playgrounds are a great gathering place in the community—but unfortunately, they can spell danger for HOAs if they aren’t properly inspected and maintained.

Associations handle personally identifiable information daily, including homeowner names, addresses, bank account information, credit card numbers, credit histories, and Social Security numbers. Unfortunately, these items are attractive to cybercriminals, and as data thieves grow more sophisticated in their tactics, the potential risks of a data breach increase for an association.

Do you have your eyes on a particular home? The first thing you should do is ask your real estate agent if it's part of a community association.

Managing the daily operations of a homeowners association can make it hard for Florida board members and community managers to carve out time to evaluate the health of their association. Though it may be one more thing to do, knowing your community’s financial standing, curb appeal, and relationship with residents is well worth the time and effort.

Trespassing in HOA communities is a common concern. Usually, the situation involves either the HOA entering a homeowner's property or a homeowner entering community property. Regardless of the actual situation, the association must know how to handle this issue. Failure to provide awareness can result in severe consequences for either party.

Governing homeowners associations include documents, among which are the bylaws and the CC&Rs. However, there will come a time when you will need to amend those documents. Continue reading to learn how to change HOA bylaws and CC&Rs.

Conducting effective board meetings plays an essential role in the Board of Directors' ability to govern their community successfully. However, it takes a great deal of time and effort for a board meeting to run in a timely and productive manner.

Has your board of directors of your homeowners’ association recently consider a bulk contract for cable television and internet service for your community. While the association has not previously provided cable or internet service to the residents, the association signed the contract to force homeowners to pay for the service as part of their assessments.

Summer is almost here. Many HOA board members will be out of town throughout the summer. Still, you must continue to hold board meetings as often as outlined in your association bylaws.

Have you received letters from your homeowner's association manager about your dog barking while you're out at work. If this describes your situation, you may have that "dog next door." Condominium Associates provides tips and tricks on how to tame a barking dog in your HOA.

Who doesn’t love a community pool? The best way for everyone to enjoy the pool is an agreed-upon set of pool rules. It’s the perfect time of year to start thinking about how to set the pool up for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

The safety benefits of having a lifeguard are apparent, but there are financial and liability considerations as well. Many homeowners associations are exploring ways to eliminate lifeguards without the liability. According to HOAResources.com, the association should create, publish, and circulate a policy called "Rules and Regulations for Unattended Pool Use.” Read on to learn more.