Operating Your Associations During the Coronavirus Pandemic 2020
Best Practices For Operating Your Community Association During the Coronavirus Pandemic 2020
What Should Your HOA or Condo Do To Stay Safe During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic 2020?
There are many Association related issues and concerns resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, more complications and logistical concerns will continue to unfold. We must be proactive.
The most important thing to prioritize in your south Florida community is safety. The health and wellbeing of your community and neighbors must come first.
There are a few key actions to take during this time to prevent the spread of the virus in a neighborhood setting.
Here’s an outline for Coronavirus Preparedness in your HOA:
- SPEAK WITH YOUR PROPERTY MANAGER ASAP
- PLAN A COURSE OF ACTION
- PRECAUTIONS
- LOGISTICS
- LEGAL
- CLEANING / SANITIZING
- NEIGHBORHOOD AND RESIDENT SAFETY
- IF AN INFECTED PERSON LIVES IN YOUR ASSOCIATION
SPEAK WITH YOUR PROPERTY MANAGER ASAP
Start by gathering the Board members via digital meeting platforms. This will facilitate the planning process to discuss Association related safety precautions. Grant Property Management is providing video conferences for our Boards at no charge through our GPM Zoom Meeting portal.
PLAN A COURSE OF ACTION
During this digital meeting every Board member should be present (as possible) and work together to develop and implement strategic health and safety precautions.
Pay special attention to the specific features of your property. The Board should consider what actions are appropriate to take for your particular Association. Be proactive. The Board should establish policies and procedures now, instead of having to scramble when information about an infected individual is presented.
PRECAUTIONS
For example, although it may create resistance from the residents, closing common areas like clubhouses, pools and gyms, is a wise decision.
Here are a few other important precautionary considerations:
LOGISTICS
Consider your property type and resident population.
Your HOA may have increased risk factors based on the demographic of residents and the type of residences you live in.
Multi-floor condominiums with common elevators need to be especially thoughtful.
Town home and garden style housing communities that have shared common walls or common catwalks, or hallways, and residences that are in close proximity to each other need special consideration.
LEGAL
It is suggested you clear all COVID-19 related issues and potential actions with your HOA attorney to avoid potentially explosive and expensive mis-steps.
CLEANING
It is a good idea to heed CDC and WHO advice and keep areas (even temporarily closed areas) disinfected and clean. Consider implementing increased cleaning services. This will provide sanitation to frequently touched or trafficked areas.
Grant Property Management is encouraging increased cleaning services at all of our properties. Inasmuch, we are offering these additional sanitation services at discounted prices to further motivate proper hygienic steps.
NEIGHBORHOOD AND RESIDENT SAFETY
Residents or homeowners should take proper precautions in interaction with others. Guest entry should be limited at this time. Continue to practice social distancing. Check with the CDC and WHO as well as local trusted news sources to stay up to date with health practices.
IF AN INFECTED PERSON LIVES IN YOUR ASSOCIATION
In the event a COVID-19 infected person is determined to live in your association, it must be reported immediately. Depending on property type this may create an increased risk of virus transmission.
We suggest informing residents and homeowners so they may take proper precaution. It is also important to contact local authorities and health care providers.
You should also contact your attorney.
WHAT SHOULD YOUR HOA/CONDO ASSOCIATION DO DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IN 2020
We are in unprecedented and uncharted territory and Associations must be careful how they address Coronavirus issues. Safety of residents is most important.
Follow the above guidelines. Stay informed. Keep your neighborhood safe and your homeowners and residents healthy.
Do not hesitate to reach out to Grant Property Management if you have questions or would like to inquire about services or support. We can offer video conferencing, cleaning and janitorial support, or logistical guidance.