Condo Media - May 2024 - 36

The Region VERMONT
Navigating
Challenges
Reducing Risks for Community Wellbeing [By Andrew Dudka]
Associations have an important role in
keeping the property safe and looking
nice. In Vermont, where people form
close-knit groups while enjoying the
beautiful scenery, associations are
tasked with protecting property values
while building community spirit.
ASSOCIATION CHALLENGES
l Legal
These responsibilities come with legal
and legislative challenges that need
very careful attention and proactive
solutions to limit risks. Vermont's laws
about associations are complex, with
statutes, regulations, and case law.
Understanding these intricate legal
details is essential for associations to
follow the law and avoid liability issues.
One big legal concern for Vermont
associations involves governing and
enforcing rules. Clear, thorough bylaws
are vital to explain to the homeowners
the association's rules of conduct.
Unclear or incomplete bylaws can cause
disputes and lawsuits. So it is critical to
review and update bylaws regularly to
meet changing legal standards.
l Environmental
Also, Vermont's evolving laws may bring
new association regulations, especially
around the environmental landscape.
Staying current on these changes and
following them is key to avoiding fines
and keeping communities safe.
l Safety
Keeping residents and visitors safe
is a top priority for associations.
From maintaining shared spaces to
36 CONDOMEDIA May 2024
putting security measures in place,
associations have a lot of responsibility
to lower risks. But if they fall short
of these duties, legal issues and
money problems may follow.
To keep safety risks down, associations
need to thoroughly assess
dangers and make repairs. These may
include uneven sidewalks, damaged
common stairways, pavement defects,
fragile tree limbs, and stormwater
management, to name a few. Checking
shared spaces, features, and structures
often is key to spotting hazards early.
Prioritizing quick fixes and upgrades
can avoid accidents and legal issues.
Associations should also have solid
safety rules and emergency plans
to handle surprises. Fire safety and
disaster plans at the ready for crises
can limit risks and help communities
bounce back when trouble hits. This
also means having adequate budgets
to meet these challenges at all times.
l Financial
Clear budgeting and smart financial
planning are vital to ensure stability.
Associations should save for longterm
maintenance and big projects to
avoid deferred issues and special fees.
You guessed it: Associations need a
well-funded reserve account.
Also, cost-conscious buying and
vendor control can help associations
spend less without cutting quality.
Negotiating good contracts yearly for
landscaping, snow plowing, and building
maintenance, as well as annual
insurance shopping, will save money
in the long run.
l Insurance
Associations need insurance policies
that match their specific needs and risks.
Solid liability coverage, protection for
directors and officers, and property
insurance can save from surprise costs
and claims. Be sure to carefully review
all policies to ensure they align with your
property's uniqueness.
WHEN DISPUTES ARISE
Even when associations try hard to avoid
problems, they still sometimes end up
with legal challenges and drama. From
bylaw arguments to owner complaints,
addressing issues quickly - and not making
it personal - is important for keeping
the community well managed and happy.
Associations have several options to
settle disputes quickly, so don't hesitate
to use them. Mediation or arbitration are
great tools to resolve issues faster and
cheaper. Talking things out and keeping
owners involved can also create more
team spirit to prevent arguments from
turning into lawsuits.
Handling all the challenges in
Vermont associations takes effort,
great planning, and being proactive.
By prioritizing safety, adequate budgeting,
maintenance, open communication,
and responding quickly to the communities,
associations can lower risks, help
residents stay resilient, and encourage
harmonious vibes for living there.
n ANDREW DUDKA IS PRESIDENT OF
CRITERIUM LALANCETTE AND
ENGINEERS IN RUTLAND, VT.
Condo Media - May 2024

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