Let’s say, hypothetically, an association begins to consider the installation of security cameras in its common areas in order to protect residents. The board noticed a dramatic increase in crime in surrounding neighborhoods, so they felt this would be a good decision for community. However, if they install this system, are they opening up their association to liabilities it didn’t previously have? What are the best practices for an association to follow when using and installing security cameras?
Last month we received several questions regarding what constitutes a majority when voting to change an association’s bylaws or the declaration. We were a little surprised by how something that seems so simple, is actually not. As they say, the devil is in the details, especially when it comes to voting on either association bylaw or declaration amendments.
Do you have that one monthly association board meeting that is the most dreaded of all meetings in your portfolio? Does it last three, four or five hours? Yes, I said five hours. Why?
Whether done intentionally or unintentionally, the unauthorized practice of law can land a property manager in hot water. Not only could a manager’s job be on the line, but there are also legal issues associated with practicing law without a license. Therefore, rather than addressing legal matters on their own, managers should instead turn to counsel, said Denise Becker, Senior Vice President of Homestead Management Services, Inc. in Pine Brook and Hillsborough, New Jersey.
This time of year, many association managers are getting ready to present their budget drafts to their communities’ boards of directors. That is, if the association’s fiscal year is the same as a calendar year. However, no matter what the fiscal year schedule is, it’s important that mangers take certain steps to keep the budget process on the right track all year long.
