LET YOUR RESIDENTS KNOW HOW THEY CAN PROTECT THEIR HOME.
Encourage your residents to take a few simple steps like the ones below before they travel during the summer. These steps can go a long way in keeping theft and vandalism out of the community.
Know your neighbors. You'll get a better idea of who lives in your community and if they've noticed anything suspicious. Ask someone to stop by your home and check on things while you're away.
Leave the light on. Not only does a front porch light signal that someone's home, it also makes it harder for intruders to hide among the shadows. If you see any street lights that are burnt out, let the community know as soon as possible so it can replace them.
Lock up. If you want to keep unwanted guests out, don't make your home inviting. Even when you're around, it's best to keep all gates, doors, windows, and garages closed and locked.
Put on your walking shoes. The more familiar you are with your neighborhood, the quicker you can spot anything unusual. Also, when more residents regularly walk around the community, it can help scare off any potential criminals who are afraid of getting caught in the act.
Clean it up. Picking up litter, removing graffiti, and keeping greenery trimmed not only makes the community look better, but it also sends the message that residents are diligent about keeping the neighborhood a respectable and safe place to live.
See something, say something. If you notice a crime, regardless of how small the incident may seem, notify association security and the police immediately. Of course, only call 911 if it is an emergency; otherwise, contact the police on a non-emergency line.
Have a safe and enjoyable summer!
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BREAKING NEWS
NOT ALL PR IS GOOD PR.
You can ward off many possible public relations problems at the beginning by clearly communicating with residents, particularly when there are assessment increases or rule changes. Use these tips, derived from
Common Ground magazine's “Breaking News" article:
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Identify a spokesperson and train him or her on stock responses. Having fact sheets about your community association also helps.
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Be accessible to media inquiries and develop working relationships with journalists.
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Be transparent about association operations with residents by promoting good news and initiatives.
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Consult with your attorney or refer requests directly to him or her when confronted with a major issue.
>>Read examples of how other community associations are applying these tips
here.
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WHAT RESIDENTS SHOULD KNOW BEFORE THEY RENT THEIR HOME
IF IT'S EVEN ALLOWED.
If your community allows rentals and residents are thinking of making their home available, you can make the experience successful for everyone by helping residents and tenants understand their responsibilities. This will help preserve your property value and maintain the association's property value. Share the guidance below.
Before you make your home available for rentals, be sure to check your association rules and local laws. Some communities and municipalities prohibit rentals or may regulate the terms. You also should contact your homeowner's insurance carrier to be sure you're covered for any incidents related to rentals.
Assuming all checks out, follow the simple steps below to ensure you, the tenants, and the association all have a positive experience.
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Provide your tenants with copies of association rules.
Explain to your tenants that living in a community association is very different from living in a rental apartment community. -
Ensure that tenants comply with association rules.
The board can assist you in this area, but the responsibility lies with you. -
Advise tenants on the proper use of association facilities.
Provide your tenants with rules regarding community amenities. -
Use a written lease agreement, and make sure it requires tenants to comply with all association governing documents.
In the event your tenant fails to comply with these documents, the association may pursue legal action against the tenant, and possibly against you. -
Provide the association with contact information for your tenants. If you're a renter and don't have a copy of the association rules or if you'd like more information about the association, contact a board member or manager.
This article was originally featured in
HOAresources.com.
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constituents in your community
your summer event guest list just got longer.