Question: What is a good procedure for rules
enforcement?
Answer: Having a long list of rules is usually not
advisable. There are already enough rules lying around unused. But
the Board has the authority to enact reasonable rules and procedures when
necessary. The Resolutions Process is a great way to define the complex issues. Resolutions can be
used for collections, architectural control, pets and parking. Resolutions
enacted by the Board should include:
1. Clear explanation of the issue
2. Consequences for
failing to obey
3. Appeal process
4. Review by the association
attorney
5. Review by the owners before enactment by the Board.
Question: Do you have a suggestion for a maintenance
request form?
Answer: Three part carbonless forms work well. The
original for the file, one copy for the owner and one copy for the maintenance
person. I highly recommend using email because the request is filled out by the
owner and can be moved quickly along to maintenance, management and
accounting.
Question: Our rules state: "No clothing or other
household fabrics shall be hung in the open." I took this to mean clothes lines
would not be permitted. Can the Architectural Committee interpret this to mean
that clothes lines are permitted as long as they are in the back yard?
Answer: Rules like this are intended to control the curb
appeal standard for the community. The rules tend to soften if the offending
issue is relegated to the back yard, presumably out of sight. While the
Architectural Committee does have the right to interpret the rules, it does
answers to the Board. If you disagree with their interpretation, talk to the
Board.
For more information on this subject, see www.Regenesis.net.
Published: February 28, 2001
Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.
 Richard Thompson owns Regenesis, a management consulting company that specializes in condominium and homeowner associations. He is a nationally recognized expert on HOA management issues.Regenesis publishes The Regenesis Report, a monthly newsletter for HOA boards, developers and managers. To subscribe, go to Regenesis.net. He can be contacted by email at . |
