Unprecedented wildfires brought sudden devastation and loss to Southern California in January. As wildfire recovery efforts begin, community association leaders need to consider what immediate actions to take while also ensuring they align with governing documents. They also need to be prepared to work with insurance providers and handle resident requests.
Disaster recovery efforts can be complicated even without a challenging insurance market. Valencia on the Gulf, a condominium community nestled on the normally picturesque beach in Venice, Fla., was among the many neighborhoods that got hammered by Hurricane Ian. Under the leadership of its community manager, Valencia is well on its way to recovery.
California’s “balcony bill,” SB 721, requires balcony inspections within all multifamily residential buildings containing three or more dwelling units no later than Jan. 1, 2025. David Swedelson, founding senior partner at Swedelson Gottlieb firm, provides details to help communities prepare for and transition to these new requirements.
Community association board members and managers frequently practice diffusing tension and communicating clearly. Today, they also need to prepare safety and security plans in the event of hostile and dangerous behavior. Though worst-case scenarios are rare, in an increasingly uncertain climate, a renewed focus has been placed on safeguarding residents, volunteers, and employees.
The past few weeks have brought multiple natural disasters to several parts of the U.S. Last week, tropical storm Hilary’s unprecedented landfall brought powerful winds and heavy rains, reminding community association leaders to evaluate their disaster preparations.
