What Are Signs of Termite Damage
HOAs are faced with various insect infestation, none cause more damage than termites. Termites are tough and resistant insects with a voracious appetite for wood. Unfortunately, this can lead to severe home and property damage as the hungry insects feast their way through structural materials. A thorough inspection can give clues as to whether termites...
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Chairing the HOA Annual Meeting
The chair presides over the HOA annual meeting or any deliberative assembly. The chair conducts the meeting and is responsible for the orderly opening, progression and completion of the meeting. In short the chair is in charge of the meeting. The chair can also be referred to chairperson, chairman, chairwoman, presiding officer, president, and moderator....
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Quorum
A quorum is the number of members required to be present before a meeting can legally be conducted. Quorums are necessary for annual membership meetings and board of directors meetings. If HOA business is to be conducted, special membership meetings would require a quorum as well. For board of directors meetings, unless the bylaws...
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Eliminating or Adding Amenities in an HOA
Eliminating or taking on additional HOA responsibilities may appear to be a straightforward undertaking, but there are a number of considerations. The primary considerations are the requirements of the HOA's governing documents and the ramifications on the HOA's budget. A third consideration is the unintended consequences of whatever decision is made. Boards of directors...
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Communication When Disaster Strikes the HOA
Planning for disaster is one of those tasks that unfortunately seems to be put on a backburner. Out of sight, out of mind, is human nature with non-pressing issues. As with any emergency or potentially stressful situation, preparation maybe more difficult when the situation is upon the HOA member. That is why planning well beforehand...
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Salt Water Pools
Pool maintenance costs being one of the largest budget items for an HOA, a saltwater pool may help to lower expenses. A salt water or saltwater pool is a swimming pool, which is filled with a mild salt solution. Many companies that install pools can construct salt water pools and outfit them with the necessary...
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Annual HOA Audits & Reviews
Each year William Douglas Management's Accounting Department seeks quotes from outside CPA firms to perform audits and reviews for our client’s financial records. A quote for performing the HOA's tax returns is also obtained at the same time. Combining either an audit or a review with the tax preparation, typically offers a cost savings to...
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Other HOA Meeting Guidelines
- When a topic is first introduced or a main motion is made, allow all questions for informational purposes to be asked before opening to debate. - Discourage the repetition of arguments. Discourage dialogues that start up between two individuals in debate. - If debate carries on too long, impose time limits on...
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5 Points About the HOA Reserves
Reserves are a crucial aspect of all HOAs. 1 - The Internal Revenue Service considers general maintenance items not appropriate use of Reserve funds. For example painting may not qualify as a Reserve item. 2 - Reserves have to be allocated for a specific purpose. Contingency Reserves, General Reserves, Rainy Day Reserves could...
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HOA Retention Ponds Don’ts
DO NOT mow detention pond too close to the surface; height should be 4 to 6 inches to maintain healthy grasses. DO NOT apply landscaping chemicals in pond area, or in areas where the residue could make it into the pond during a storm event. William Douglas Management, providing excellent management services...
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