Articles published by:

Nick Butris

Condo & HOA Insurance• May 7, 2026

Are Emotional Distress Claims Covered by Your Community Association’s Liability Insurance Policy?

Can a Michigan homeowners association rely on its liability insurance to cover emotional distress claims tied to enforcement disputes? In many cases, the answer is no. Condominium and homeowner associations routinely rely on liability insurance as a financial safety net when disputes escalate into litigation. Associations often assume that if a lawsuit is filed—particularly one alleging serious harm such as…
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Common Elements• April 16, 2026

When Are Michigan HOAs Liable for Flooding and Drainage Problems

Michigan Court Limits HOA Liability for Flooding Claims Flooding disputes are among the most fact-intensive and emotionally charged conflicts facing homeowners associations. When water ends up where it should not, the instinct is to find someone to blame: the HOA, a neighboring owner, or a governmental entity. But a recent decision from the Michigan Court of Appeals, Pickthorn v Oakland…
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Developers• March 27, 2026

Michigan Court Limits Developer Rights in Condo Marina Dispute

In condominiums with marinas, disputes often arise over who controls access to shared amenities, such as boat slips, and how those costs are allocated. In many cases, rights to control the marina, access to boat slips, and cost-sharing for marina amenities are disputed. In Harbor Isles Marine, LLC v Estate of Chodock, unpublished opinion of the Court of Appeals, issued…
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