By Laura Otto (HOA resources)
As the worlds continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s essential that community association boards and community managers know how the coronavirus spreads and take the necessary precautions to serve their communities. As this crisis is constantly changing, HOA boards must ensure they are taking the proper steps to ensure resident’s stay safe, and business operations continue.
- Ensure continued maintenance and sanitation of common areas, including clubhouses, fitness centers, playgrounds, and pools, even though they may not be in use right now.
- Post CDC notices informing homeowners what health precautions they must take to protect themselves from the virus.
- Follow all local and state emergency temporary orders banning short-term rentals.
- Follow state recommended stay-at-home orders and social distancing protocols.
- Ask residents to practice HOA social distancing by maintaining at least 6 feet in between individuals.
- Limit in access to site staff and other association personnel that includes limiting repair work to “essential only,” to minimize contractor traffic, as well as entry by other service providers.
- Set expectations by letting residents know that you are only following guidance from the CDC.
- Pacify residents by informing them you are staying on top of the situation.
- Board meetings should be held virtually. We recommend using Zoom for video conferencing. Click here for a free demonstration.
- Keep the identity of residents who test positive confidential unless the resident agrees to disclose the information.
To assist communicating best practices to help prevent the spread of the virus, CAI has developed a sample letter to inform residents of the steps your community may take to address the COVID-19 pandemic. The letter addresses association operations and what the association may do if residents contract COVID-19.
This situation is continuously changing and we encourage you to check your local government’s current guidelines as things are changing daily. CAI has developed guidance, sample forms and documents, and FAQs on the COVID-19 outbreak. Bookmark the page and return regularly for updates and additional resources.
If your HOA needs help implementing these guidelines, consider contacting an HOA management company. In that case, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. As always, contact our office if you have any specific questions that you may have at info@rmgamerica.com or call us at (954)693-9989.
Stay safe!
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