Are Your HOA Rules Causing Parking Problems? Part II

In most associations, the assignment of one or more spaces is for each unit. Boards should use their rule-making authority to adopt parking policies that require owners to park in their assigned areas. That gives the association the power to enforce the rules if an owner violates this provision.

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Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Your HOA

Some condominium or townhome documents contain specific requirements for charging stations, but most don't specifically address the subject. When the documents are silent on the matter, installing a charging station is typically handled as a request to modify the general or limited common elements.

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How to Address HOA Bids for Contract Work

There are good reasons for homeowners associations to obtain multiple bids for contract work. Proposals help the association create a budget for long-range planning and ensure that the board selects the best contractor to complete the required work within the timeframe and contract specifications. Some boards believe they need three bids for every contract, no matter how small or undefined the work's scope. That's not always the right thing to do.

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HOA Holiday Lights Safety Tips

HOA residents may be getting an early start on holiday décor this year. Lights are being strung on homes even earlier as they seek to find some extra joy during the COVID-19 pandemic. As is typical during the holiday season, homeowners should review any seasonal décor guidelines in their community and follow some simple steps to decorate safely.

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HOA Civility Living Tips

Civility, like chivalry, is becoming extremely rare. Differences of opinion are no longer allowed—either someone agrees with the other person, or both may reject any polite dialogue. Today's society needs healthy ways to manage disagreements and relationships, especially in your community HOAs. Here are some tips to consider regarding the dispute and what it means (or doesn't).

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For Better or Worse—Bill Pay to Strengthen HOA Relationships 

Like any relationship, one built on trust is an important one between an association's board members and its community association management company. It's the primary reason this relationship exists in the first place. A board of directors calls on a management company to help execute the responsibilities it has to its residents. Therefore the way a management company pays its bills can significantly impact the level of trust and overall quality of the relationship—for better or worse.

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