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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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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The governing documents of a condominium association are intended to address the various provisions and restrictions that apply to the co-owners and the association. The condominium documents, however, simply cannot address each and every specific situation that may arise. Or a provision in the condominium documents may address a topic in general terms without identifying how that provision is to…
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On July 8, 2024, the Governor signed the Homeowners’ Energy Policy Act, MCL 559.301, et seq. (“HEPA”), which becomes effective on April 1, 2025. The HEPA is intended to limit a homeowners association’s ability to restrict or prohibit an owner from installing solar panels and other energy-saving devices. In addition, the HEPA also requires each homeowners association to adopt a…
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Common complaints that co-owners have about the condominium’s master deed and bylaws are that they are poorly written, full of legalese, and are difficult to understand. When it comes to the responsibilities of the condominium association and co-owners to maintain, repair, and replace the common elements and the unit, a maintenance matrix be helpful to clearly and simply identify whether…
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