Spring has sprung! Which means that community associations through North and South Carolina will begin seeing increased community traffic, amenity use (including use of playgrounds, pools, tennis and pickleball courts), and increased social events. So, is your community ready.
Communities should consider the following:
- Pool: Is the pool ready to open? Has the association contracted with a professional pool vendor to make sure the pool is ready for owner use? Often this is the time of year where pool vendors are busiest. Getting on their list now will aid in making sure the pool is ready to open on time. The association should also evaluate their pool rules. Our firm recommends regular review of pool rules to make sure they are up to date and compliant with state and federal laws. Our firm regularly reviews pool rules for our community association clients. More information regarding making sure the pool is ready to open can be found here.
- Other Amenities: With the weather warming, there will be increased use of outside amenities. It would be wise to begin inspecting those areas if the association has not already done so. Meaning, look at playground equipment, tennis and pickleball courts, walking trails, etc. to see if they are in proper “working” order. Associations, should inspect these common amenities to make sure that nothing needs repair or required maintenance.
- Insurance: Associations should always take a regular review of their insurance policies to make sure that they have adequate and appropriate insurance for their type of community. Amenity existence and use can play a part in what type of insurance may be needed or the level of coverage to be provided. Insurance shouldn’t just be reviewed in the springtime. However, with owners outside more often and using the amenities, the risk for claims could increase.
- Architectural guidelines: Spring is prime season for making exterior additions, undertaking landscaping projects, or making much needed repairs. In a similar way that pool rules should be audited, architectural guidelines should be reviewed for compliance with the governing documents and state law. Are there any trends or emerging exterior change types that may warrant some guideline tweaking? Think solar panels or electronic vehicle charging stations.
It is important to be ready for increased community use that the warmer weather will bring. Our North and South Carolina community association attorneys are happy to assist your community as spring rolls into the Carolinas.