When it comes to legislation and legal issues that apply to condo associations, co-ops, and other multifamily housing models, the focus is often local—city ordinances, council meetings, and so forth – but there are judgments handed down and…
2017 June
Focus on... Law & Legislation
It’s no secret that insurance is a necessity for any building or association. Nevertheless, the expense of coverage means that issues of liability and risk are all too often examined only after problems have occurred. Usually, insurance hol…
To paraphrase the Declaration of Independence, all men and women are created equal with certain inalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That may not be the case if you live in a condominium, co-op or HOA, …
For more than 150 exhibitors and TK of attendees, lasst month’s spring edition of the Cooperator Expo Chicago was the place to be. The Expo kept the buzzing with board members, managers, and building owners hunting for the best insights, t…
While the exhortation to “smoke ‘em if you got ‘em” has never really gone out of style, one should take caution before lighting up just anywhere. Many places, from restaurants to airplanes to hospitals, expressly and strictly forbid anyone …
Q. Is it illegal for members on the HOA board to also hold a position on the board of directors of the property management company that the HOA hires and oversees? —Worried About Impropriety A. “No, but both the board…
Q. We have a doorman at our Lake Shore Drive building from 8 a.m. until midnight, and the street door is locked at midnight. Is there any regulation regarding necessary available access to the building by guests or emergency responders be…
Q. Can the board change house rules without a vote? The condo declaration states no pets in or any property of the condominium upon approval of the board in writing. The house rules were changed from no pets to pets allowed and two per un…
Q. When I became disabled, I applied to the board for approval for a companion dog. Upon approval, I signed an agreement that restricted the dog from certain areas and reiterated the dog could not be a nuisance to neighbors. I installed $…