Chickens are becoming increasingly trendy animals for people to own. At least part of the driving force behind people keeping chickens is the fresh supply of eggs. With increasing awareness around farming practices and consciousness about health, many people are keeping chickens in their backyards. For those who are part of a homeowners association in a suburban setting, though, there…
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Many Michigan condominium associations and HOAs understand the value of general liability or directors and officers insurance. However, another type of coverage, workers’ compensation insurance, is less well-known but can be extremely valuable. Whether your community association has staff, hires vendors, or relies on volunteers, it’s crucial to know when workers’ compensation insurance is legally required in Michigan and when…
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Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept for community association board members and property managers. Whether it is asking ChatGPT to provide a section of the condominium act, using Microsoft Copilot to summarize board meeting notes, or relying on AI tools to manage finances, the use of AI is becoming common, even for those that operate condominium and…
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Condominium associations in Michigan are required to carry insurance that complies with Michigan Administrative Rule 550.208, which states: The bylaws shall provide that the association of co-owners shall carry insurance for fire and extended coverage, vandalism and malicious mischief, and, if applicable, liability and workers’ disability compensation, pertinent to the ownership, use, and maintenance of the premises and that all…
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Being a Board member of a condominium association can often be a thankless job: you receive all the complaints and are the face of every perceived issue that has ever happened or will ever happen in the condominium. And when things run smoothly or problems are resolved, there is no parade in your honor. Board members volunteer their time and…
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Disputes over whether fences that violate restrictive covenants are a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act are often tricky for condominium and homeowners associations to navigate. Requests for fences related to individuals with disabilities are becoming more common, as many HOA bylaws prohibit fences, only allow fences for pools, or limit the type of fence that can be installed…
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