Maintenance Issues

Two Funds, Two Different Functions: HOA Operations and Reserves

Funding the ongoing operations of an HOA community stands out as one of the most critical functions of an HOA board — perhaps even the most pivotal. Ensuring the smooth running of day-to-day activities and planning for the long term is key to maintaining a steady flow of funds for a community's effective functioning. It is also an HOA board member's duty to responsibly allocate funds according to guidelines outlined in a reserve study. This study addresses larger issues like roof replacements, n [...]

How Will Maui Fires Affect Insurance Rates? 

The Maui wildfires are estimated to cost insurers up to US$3-billion in damages, creating one of the largest insured losses in Hawaii’s history, according to an analyst report. This leads many property owners wondering if the tragedy will result in higher homeowners insurance rates across Hawai‘i. And as natural disasters are escalated by climate change, will policies be adequate or even obtainable? We’ve gathered some experts opinions. The Aug. 8 blazes did the most destruction in Lahaina, but [...]

A Guide to Reserve Study Standards

The Community Association Institute released updated reserve study standards addressing maintenance, building inspections, and long-life components. These updates are critical for reserve study providers to incorporate into their regular practice and provide an excellent tool for board members and managers to better understand what they should be prepared to discuss during their next reserve study. You can find a printable copy HERE, or refer to the guide text below: Scope and Intent of Reserve [...]

HOA Guidelines for Blissful Barbequing

We enjoy beautiful weather year-round in Hawaii, yet summer always seems more synonymous with barbequing. In an HOA, having a few BBQ guidelines could mean the difference between summer fun or disaster. Experts suggest that if you've got a grill or several in shared areas that owners can use, you should post some rules to ensure safety. Since "grilling season" is upon us, now is a great time to review, or if you don’t have rules, incorporate them into those areas where you have grills located. I [...]

Top Trends for HOAs in 2023

Whew! The last few years have been bumpy for homeowners, including those in HOAs. We’ve all felt the impact of record inflation. Sky-high real estate prices benefited some and stung others, while lack of inventory kept many homeowners in place. HOAs have faced rising insurance and well as other costs, while sea level rise and climate change trends are not far from our thoughts. There are a few things that will impact HOAs significantly in 2023, but not all of them are bad. Here is a rundown of t [...]

How HOA Communities Can Conserve Water

While we want to be as environmentally responsible as possible, saving water should be a prominent issue for associations and its owners. Some areas are already facing water restrictions. Conserving water also keeps assessments manageable. Here’s how you can do your part for both reasons: Appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers consume the most water indoors, so let’s begin there in our conservation efforts. Match the water level on your washing machine to the size of your load. Avoi [...]

Make Sure Gutters are Storm-Ready

With our changing climate, we can expect more frequent storms with heavier rain, even in sunny Maui. But preparing your property for heavy rain does not mean pouring a lot of money down the drain. Some easy maintenance should keep you, well, as right as rain. Frequently overlooked, rain gutters, drains, and downspouts are the primary channels for rainwater to drain away from your building properly and are a critical element of your building’s roofing system. Rain gutters are designed to prevent [...]

Tips for Minor Home and Rental Updates

Whether you are looking at do-it-yourself projects to freshen up your home or to upgrade your condo to offer it as a vacation rental, updates need not be extensive or expensive. With some planning, you can make changes that will matter without breaking the bank or having your home torn apart for months. Here are some basic tips to ensure your project goes smoothly. Prioritize, plan, purchase It’s always a good idea to plan your project, prioritizing what you want to do, then make your purchases. [...]

5 Most Common HOA Landscaping and Gardening Policies

There is just something rejuvenating about having well-tended foliage around our living spaces. If you’re a Homeowners Association board member or a property manager for an HOA, you probably get questions about plants and other landscaping policies. Residents want to understand what they can and can’t do. Rules vary widely from association to association, and this can confuse homeowners. If they’ve looked into their HOA’s landscaping or garden policies, they may not understand fully how rules ap [...]

Planning and Budgeting for HOA Roof Replacements

Roofing is one of the costliest expenditures for any property. Carefully considering the full scope of the job at the beginning stages will help minimize unforeseen expenses. The ideal scenario is hiring an architect, engineer, or consultant, especially for a large roof replacement project, to offer peace of mind and minimize liability. But this particular expense, along with building permitting fees and performance bonds, are almost always overlooked when setting aside roof replacement reserves [...]

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