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OiStockphoto.com Common Interest The Official Publication of CAI-Connecticut Vol. XIII: Issue 5⚫ 2018 CONNECTICUT CHAPTER AMA community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE Inside: FAQs HOA Income Taxes CYBER LIABILITY Computer Fraud and Your Condominium Insurance and BUILDING CODES ...And More! THE MILFORD BANK Condo Association Loan Program We offer interest rates that are among the lowest in the industry, with flexible terms and personal attention. Let us assist your community by financing all of your capital repair projects: Roofing Siding MEET OUR LENDERS Paul Portnoy Vice President Commercial Lending 203-783-5749 PPortnoy@milfordbank.com Paving & Drainage Painting Windows THE MILFORD BANK Always There. MILFORDBANK.COM/BUSINESS-LOANS Mark Gruttadauria Vice President Business Development 203-783-5725 MGruttadauria@milfordbank.com Call or email us today! Equal Member Housing FDIC Lender 2018 Board of Directors Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 • Common Interest President's Message Pamela Bowman, CMCA, EBP PRESIDENT Reggie Babcock. PRESIDENT-ELECT Prime Touch Services Simsbury, CT Westford Real Estate Management, LLC Vernon, CT Frank Pingelski, EBP. ..Tooher-Ferraris Insurance Group Wilton, CT CA ent dent SECRETARY Christine Carlisle, CPA TREASURER Jim Carroll.. Bill Jackson, EBP Donna Rathbun, CMCA.. Chas Ryan, Esq., EBP. Mark D. Sperry. William W. Ward, Esq. Greg Zajac, EBP.. Carney, Roy&Gerrol, P.C. Rocky Hill, CT ...J.P. Carroll Construction, Inc. West Hartford, CT Belfor Property Restoration Wallingford, CT Imagineers, LLC Hartford, CT Pilicy & Ryan, P.C. Watertown, CT Fernwood Estates Association, Inc. West Hartford, CT Ackerly & Ward Stamford, CT Building Renewal, LLC Durham, CT Committee Chairpersons Conference & Expo Karl Kuegler, Jr., CMCA, AMS Education Program
ernwood Estates Association, Inc. West Hartford, CT Ackerly & Ward Stamford, CT Building Renewal, LLC Durham, CT Committee Chairpersons Conference & Expo Karl Kuegler, Jr., CMCA, AMS Education Program Pam Bowman, CMCA, EBP Donna Rathbun, CMCA CAMMIES Dave Pilon, EBP CEO CAM Council Gary Knauf, CMCA Fall Fun Carrie Mott, EBP Golf Carrie Mott, EBP Kim McClain Lawyers' Council Robin Kahn, Esq. Legislative Action Scott J. Sandler, Esq. Marketing Sam Tomasetti, CPA Membership Wendy Colleary, EBP Next Generation Public Relations Bob Gourley Publication Sam Tomasetti, CPA Spring Fling Linda Schaller, EBP Ellen Sias, CMCA Summer Sizzler Chris Hansen, Esq. Jon Gosnell, CMCA, AMS Website Paradise Mea Anderson Chapter Executive Director Staff Who Is CAI? Bob Gourley Ellen Felix Director Program Operations The Connecticut Chapter is one of 63 Community Associations Institute chapters worldwide. CAI-CT serves the educational, business, and network- ing needs of community associations throughout Connecticut. Our members include community association volunteer leaders, professional managers, com- munity management firms, and other professionals and companies that provide products and services to associations. The Connecticut Chapter has over 900 members including nearly 150 businesses, and over 450 community associa- tions representing 50,000 homeowners. The materials contained in this publication are designed to provide accurate, timely and authoritative information with regard to the subject matter covered. The opinions reflected herein are the opinion of the author and not necessar- ily that of CAI. Acceptance of an advertisement in Common Interest does not constitute approval or endorsement of the product or service by CAI. CAI-
in are the opinion of the author and not necessar- ily that of CAI. Acceptance of an advertisement in Common Interest does not constitute approval or endorsement of the product or service by CAI. CAI- Connecticut reserves the right to reject or edit any advertisements, articles, or items appearing in this publication. To submit an article for publication in Common Interest contact Kim McClain at (860) 633-5692 or e-mail: kim@caict.org. Pam Bowman, CMCA, EBP ○ "Coming face-to-face sometimes gives us great opportunities to learn from others, our peers or professionals and we can understand the world and complexities of others." ne of the things we are hearing a lot of these days is how to protect ourselves from social media. For example, refraining from using personal and work emails for board members and unit owners communications; and limiting the use of texting, Facebook and tweeting will go a long way to protect your association. I just read an article on how we have lost our ability to detox from our digital lives and technologies. We can all agree we get much accomplished with the use of our smart phones, tablets, and com- puters. Unfortunately, instant gratification is something we may be looking for with our multitude of communication platforms, but it doesn't always turn out that way. Sometimes, the rapid fire rate in which things happen and the inclusivity of too much or too many can complicate matters. Association Boards are running the business of their communi- ties. And, more than likely, those board members hold down a job or other volunteer positions and perhaps manage family members both older and/or younger. Managers are doing their best to be a jack- of-all-trades with the many things directed through email, text and
r other volunteer positions and perhaps manage family members both older and/or younger. Managers are doing their best to be a jack- of-all-trades with the many things directed through email, text and voicemail, both the office phone as well as the cell phone, and tasks connected to the Board meetings. We have touched on this before, we don't know what the person on the other end is managing at the moment or in their day and they don't know what has taken place in the world of the person they are contact- ing. Coming face-to-face sometimes gives us great opportunities to learn from others, our peers or professionals and we can understand the world and complexities of others. This is one of the key reason we offer so many events as a way to connect. For Community Association Managers, our Summer Sizzler event in East Haven on August 2 will present Cyber and Fraud - what you should know from an insurance standpoint and a legal one. For Board members, on September 15 in Wallingford we will offer our popular Condo Inc. program. It's a commitment of a day and well worth the time. On October 25 our Annual Legal Symposium takes place in Stratford. If you haven't been to the Legal Symposium in the past, you should definitely plan to attend. The topics are fresh and may also offer a new perspective on common issues. I look forward to seeing you at one of our upcoming events. If you have any suggestions for education or want to learn some more about a subject, please let us know. CONNECT with CAI • 3 CONTENTS 3 President's Message 4 CED Message 4 CAI National Conference 5 Upcoming Events 6 New & Renewing Members 6 Statutory Snippet 7 Legally Speaking 10 Financially Speaking 14 Golf Wrap-Up & Photos 18 Communication Corner 20 Ask Mr. Condo 22 Manager's Column
nference 5 Upcoming Events 6 New & Renewing Members 6 Statutory Snippet 7 Legally Speaking 10 Financially Speaking 14 Golf Wrap-Up & Photos 18 Communication Corner 20 Ask Mr. Condo 22 Manager's Column 25 Cyber Liability, Computer Fraud and Your Condominium 27 Paradise Wrap-Up & Photos 28 Technical Explanations 30 Have You Considered Hydro-raking as an Aquatic Management Tool? 32 Environmental Tip 36 Classified Advertising 39 Index of Display Advertisers Common Interest Publication Committee Sam Tomasetti, CPA Chair Tomasetti, Kulas & Co. Reggie Babcock Westford Real Estate Management, LLC Adam J. Cohen, Esq. Pullman & Comley, LLC Bob Gourley MyEZCondo Steve Weir American Integrity Property Restoration Tim Wentzell, P.E. Connecticut Property Engineering Common Interest is published by the Connecticut Chapter of the Community Associations Institute. All articles and paid advertising represent the opinions of authors and advertisers and not necessarily the opinion of either Common Interest, the official publication of CAI Connecticut or Community Associations Institute. This publication is issued with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering financial, legal, accounting or other professional services, and the information contained with in should not be construed as a recommendation for any course of action regarding financial, legal, accounting or other professional service by CAI, the Connecticut Chapter, Common Interest or advertisers. If legal service or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought. The entire contents of Common Interest is protected by copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is expressly prohibited. S From the Chapter Executive Director
be sought. The entire contents of Common Interest is protected by copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is expressly prohibited. S From the Chapter Executive Director "If you make listening and observing your occupation you will gain much more than you can by talking." ~ Robert Baden-Powell Kim McClain everal years ago, a former choir director of mine was often reminding us to “Listen more than you sing." In an ensemble, it is obviously very important to be keenly aware of how your voice is blending with those around you. Without listening, you can more easily be "that" voice that sticks out. Association boards should ideally function as an ensemble. The president is in the role of the director, making certain that voices can be heard, and no one is being overly loud or drowning others out. It seems that the more effective presidents are those who really take the time to listen to both board members and owners of the community. It is truly amazing what one can discover when the focus is on hearing what someone is saying versus waiting impatiently to jump in with the point you feel the need to make. With some stretches of great summer weather still ahead of us, and the opportunity to find more people outside enjoying the sunshine, this might present a chance to do a "listening tour" of your community. Wouldn't it be great if board members had casual chats about taking the pulse of the community before the next board meeting? Then they may learn more about the priorities of the owners in the community and be better prepared when it comes to budget time in terms of how those priorities can be translated into line items or not. Why not give it a try? We have many great events coming up this Fall! We know how much many of you appreci-
es to budget time in terms of how those priorities can be translated into line items or not. Why not give it a try? We have many great events coming up this Fall! We know how much many of you appreci- ate being able to ask your legal questions to our very knowledgeable attorney speakers at our Annual Legal Symposium. October 25, 2018 at Oronoque Village in Stratford are the impor- tant details. Be sure to register at: www.caict.org. This event is often a sellout. Don't miss out. Enjoy the sunshine! Oh, the Places You'll Go! CAI National Conference The The CAI National Conference, usually held in early May each year, moves around the coun- try. Last year we were in Las Vegas, this year was Washington, D.C. and next year it will be Orlando. Think about joining us for this event! Every time we go, we learn so much about how common issues are handled throughout the country. We are also always amazed at the new types of products and services especially designed to make community association living better. (Check out the picture of the Trikke below. A really cool way to get around a community that costs less than a golf cart and is more efficient for going all around a property.) Oh the things you can discover! | (above, left to right) Jean Dobbin - Dobbin Management, Inc.; Ellen Felix - CAI-CT; Reggie Babcock, President-Elect - Westford Real Estate Management, LLC; Pamela Bowman, CMCA, EBP, CAI-CT President - Prime Touch Services; Donna Rathbun, CMCA - Imagineers, LLC, Kim McClain - CAI-CT and Karl Kuegler, Jr., CMCA, AMS. (below) Pamela Bowman - CAI-CT President checks out one of the many new products at the recent National CAI Conference in Washington, D.C. KE BILITY XKF Photos courtesy CAI-CT. Courtesy CAI-CT. OiStockphoto.com UPCOMING CAI-CT EVENTS
esident checks out one of the many new products at the recent National CAI Conference in Washington, D.C. KE BILITY XKF Photos courtesy CAI-CT. Courtesy CAI-CT. OiStockphoto.com UPCOMING CAI-CT EVENTS CAMMIES - Nominations Close Friday, August 17, 2018 Nominations may be made online at the CAMMIES website at http:// cammies.org. The awards will be given out on Thursday, September 27, 2018 at the Night of Fall Fun at the Aqua Turf in Plantsville, CT. Condo Inc. - The Business of Running Your Community Saturday, September 15, 2018, 8:30 am - 3:00 pm BELFOR Property Restoration, Wallingford Do you serve on the board of your association? Are you considering serving? Whether you are a seasoned board member, a recently elected board member or unit owner seeking to understand more about how an association runs, this course is for you! $50- CAI Members, $100 - Non-Members Sponsorships are available for this event. Fall Fun Party & the CAMMIES Thursday, September 27, 2018 Aqua Turf, Plantsville Legal Symposium Thursday, October 25, 2018 Oronoque Village, Stratford CONNECTICUT CHAPTER community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE CONDO, INC. community Visit www.caict.org to register and for updated information. community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE NEW dues structure available for homeowner leaders! Please contact MEMBER SERVICES at 888-224-4321 or cal-info@CAlonline.org for more information CONDO, INC. CAI-CT's Recommended Course for All Connecticut Community Associations CONDO, INC. I The Business of Running Your Community CONNECTICUT CHAPTER Aña community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE Do you serve on the board of your association? Are you considering serving? Whether you are a seasoned board member, a recently elected board member or unit owner seeking to understand more
INSTITUTE Do you serve on the board of your association? Are you considering serving? Whether you are a seasoned board member, a recently elected board member or unit owner seeking to understand more about how an association runs, this course is for you! Topics include: Saturday, September 15, 2018 Wallingford, CT All sessions 8:30am-3:00pm Light breakfast and lunch Members $50, Non members $100 • LEGAL: CIOA, Documents, Rules Enforcement • FINANCIALS: Budgets & Reserves • OPERATIONS: Effective Board Meetings, Contracts, Maintenance, Bid Process CONTEMPORARY ISSUES: Reserve Analysis, Long-Term Planning • INSURANCE: CIOA, Risk Management, HO6 Policies, D&O Insurance GOOD FOR 6.0 CONTINUING ED CREDITS Visit www.caict.org to register. CONNECT with CAI • 5 ©iStockphoto.com NEW & RENEWING MEMBERS Welcome New Members Associations Chateau Wood Condominium Association The Club at Norwich Inn and Spa Deer Hill Arms Condominiums Association Heather Ridge Condominium Association Inc. The Hills - Rivington Meadow Farm of Farmington Palmer Landing Community Association ParkSide South Condominium Riverview Commons Association Individual Managers Margaret Behan Sebastian Costantini Laura E. Jahn Rachael E. Rosario, CMCA, AMS Business Partners Advanced Video Security, LLC American Leak Detection Thank You Renewing Members Associations The Preserve Condominium Association Village Victoria Condominium Association Waters Edge Condominium Association Webster Hill Estates Westside Woods Condominium Wolfpit 27 Condominium Association Management Companies Barkan Management Company, Inc. CM Property Management Empire Property Management Corporation KWA Group Kuzmak-Williams & Associates, LLC Plaza Realty & Management Corporation Premier Property Management Residential Management Corporation
perty Management Empire Property Management Corporation KWA Group Kuzmak-Williams & Associates, LLC Plaza Realty & Management Corporation Premier Property Management Residential Management Corporation SOMAK Property Management White & Katzman Management, Inc. Individual Managers Alan P. Barberino, CMCA Lon Brotman, PCAM David Candelora Keith William Confalone, CMCA William Brian Crawford 3000 Madison Ave. Condominium Association Alex Danis Ballymeade Association, Inc. Beacon Hill Condominium-Beacon Falls Brookwoods II Carriage Crossing Association, Inc. Chapel Hill Condominium Association Chatfield Farm Community Assn., Inc. Churchill South Clockmakers Hill Condominium Association Countryside Manor Condominium Assn., Inc. Dartmoor West Townhouses Association, Inc. Edgewater Association, Inc. Fennwyck Estates Founders Village Homeowners Assn., Inc. Four Beaches Condominium Association Gloria Commons Homeowners Assn., Inc. Hallmark Hill Condominium Association Hatfield Mews Townhouse Owners Corp. High Ridge Estates Condominium Assn. Hopmeadow Place Condominium Kendall Green Condominium II Association Lambert Common Association, Inc. Long Hill Farm Association Mattabasset Owners Association, Inc. North Field Condominium Northfield Green Condominium Assn., Inc. Oaks Condominium Association, Inc. Old Mill Townhomes Oldefield Farms Homeowners Assn., Inc. Palmer Landing Community Association Prosperity Park Condo Association Regency Towers South Mill Village Association Spice Glen Homeowners Association Steeplechase Condominium Association Sterling Village Assn., Inc. The Crossings Homeowners Association The Fairways at Torrington Condominium Association, Inc. Jean Dobbin Kathy Dubay, CMCA, AMS Jesse Englehart, CMCA, AMS Lisa S. Glover, CMCA, AMS Regina A. Hamel
c. The Crossings Homeowners Association The Fairways at Torrington Condominium Association, Inc. Jean Dobbin Kathy Dubay, CMCA, AMS Jesse Englehart, CMCA, AMS Lisa S. Glover, CMCA, AMS Regina A. Hamel Mary Heberger, CMCA John Hufcut J. Kent Humphrey, CMCA Crystal Klatt, CMCA Sandra A. Pimentel, CMCA Andrew Price, CMCA, AMS Debra Rainone, CMCA Peggyann Routhier, CMCA, AMS Ellen B. Sias, CMCA John Staley Richard R. Stoeppel Janet Van Tassell, CMCA Dianna Marie Wilson, CMCA Business Partners Adam Quenneville Roofing, Siding & Windows American Safe Wash Banti & DeFelice, LLC Bouvier Insurance CINC Systems Eagle Rivet Roof Services Corp First County Bank Hodge Insurance Agency Ion Bank Mutual of Omaha Bank/Community Association Banking & CondoCerts People's United Insurance Agency Pro-Klean Cleaning & Restoration Services Pullman & Comley, LLC SavATree/SavaLawn Simsbury Bank The Reardon Agency, Inc. Union Bank Homeowners Association Services Webster Bank For Membership Information Visit www.caionline.org. Statutory Snippet... On the state level, what are the annual reporting requirements of a Common Interest Community, if any, and to whom? If it is incorporated, the association is required to file an annual report with the Secretary of the State concerning its corporate status. The asso- ciation is also required to file annually with the town clerk of the town in which it is located information about the contact person for obtaining resale certificates. Source: State of Connecticut: Frequently Asked Questions by: Matthew N. Perlstein, Esq. – Feldman, Perlstein & Greene, LLC. Reprint permission granted. You can find the entire document on our website: www.caict.org. - CAI-CT'S 6TH ANNUAL LEGAL & LEGISLATIVE SYMPOSIUM Proceeds to benefit legislative advocacy. GOOD FOR 4.0
. Reprint permission granted. You can find the entire document on our website: www.caict.org. - CAI-CT'S 6TH ANNUAL LEGAL & LEGISLATIVE SYMPOSIUM Proceeds to benefit legislative advocacy. GOOD FOR 4.0 CONTINUING ED CREDITS Date: Thursday, October 25, 2018 Time: 1:00-5:00 pm Place: Oronoque Village Clubhouse, Stratford, CT Speaker proposals are due August 15, 2018. We are still looking for interesting and challenging legal topics. - Once Again - Wine and cheese reception included in the price of registration. Learn in the afternoon and share some laughs in the evening! After the Symposium, we'll relax with some tasty food and libations. Please join us! CONNECTICUT CHAPTER Aña $50 CAI-CT members Community $75 Non-members ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE Legally Speaking... Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 • Common Interest If A Tree Falls... Who Pays? By Adam J. Cohen, Esq. OiStockphoto.com T Adam Cohen, Esq. Trees often damage property and structures by overgrowing, dropping sap and branches, snarling underground utilities, or falling unexpectedly. The damage can be substantial or even deadly. Trees might be “happy” when they're in a Bob Ross painting, but you certainly won't be if your neighbor's tree suddenly appears in your living room. Which, of course, leads to the question: who is responsible to pay for the damage? Legally, the owner of a tree is whoever owns the land attached to its trunk. If the tree sits on a boundary line or on jointly-owned property, all of the owners of land touching the trunk own the tree equally. Those owners can generally plant, alter, or remove their trees as they wish. But the owners of properties which do not touch the trunk have some rights as well. For example, if a tree's branches or roots extend over a property
plant, alter, or remove their trees as they wish. But the owners of properties which do not touch the trunk have some rights as well. For example, if a tree's branches or roots extend over a property line, the neighboring landowner can trim them back to the boundary. Ownership of a tree growing in a common interest ownership com- munity depends on the type of community, the wording of its declaration, and the tree's exact location. In a typical condominium where all outdoor areas are common elements, trees are owned jointly by all unit owners but maintained by the association through its executive board, which also can trim branches or roots reaching in from outside the community's borders. In a planned community where units often include a house's surrounding lawn, trees on those lawns are owned by those owners individually, while the association only controls trees in the common areas which the associa- tion owns directly. In either case, the owners of neighboring land – either an adjacent unit or property outside the community – have the right to cut the overhanging branches or roots of that owner's trees which extend beyond their boundary at their own expense. - Owning and maintaining a tree does not automatically mean responsibility for any damage that it causes. Leaves and sap which fall from a tree are considered natural products; a court typically would not hold a tree's owner responsible even if they damage a nearby home's siding or clog someone else's gutters or pipes. Likewise, when the tree itself or its branches fall onto another person's property, the general rule is that the tree's owner is not responsible for any damage or injuries. Wind, snow, lightning, and other causes are considered
elf or its branches fall onto another person's property, the general rule is that the tree's owner is not responsible for any damage or injuries. Wind, snow, lightning, and other causes are considered natural events, and the owner of land where a tree falls for these rea- sons cannot hold the tree's owner liable for compensation. Insurance on the property where the tree fell would probably cover the cost to repair a damaged structure, but probably not to remove the tree's remnants on the ground. "Every town in Connecticut appoints a tree warden charged with control of trees along public roads, sidewalks, and grounds as well as the branches or roots affecting them." However, the law offers a limited exception when the tree's owner was negligent in that he knew or should have known that the tree was dead, diseased, rotting, or otherwise likely to come down. This means that a landowner with actual knowledge that a particular tree is rotting and obviously at risk of falling must remove the tree or take other pro- tective measures, or be liable to a neighbor whose property is damaged when it does. But the law does not obligate people to continuously monitor and inspect every tree they own for nonvisible decay. This is why a condominium association in Westport won a court case last year when a rotting tree branch fell from its property onto a car parked in a nearby commercial lot, since the car's owner could not prove that the association should have known the branch was likely to fall. Local government also plays a role. Every town in Connecticut appoints a tree warden charged with control of trees along public roads, sidewalks, and grounds as well as the branches or roots affecting them. This means the private owner of a tree whose roots damage a sidewalk
ee warden charged with control of trees along public roads, sidewalks, and grounds as well as the branches or roots affecting them. This means the private owner of a tree whose roots damage a sidewalk or road badly enough to injure someone using it will often be considered immune from liability, since that owner wouldn't have the right to dig up the road or sidewalk. The tree warden himself, of course, has the authority to order that trees be trimmed or removed as necessary for public safety. [Continues on page 8.] CONNECT with CAI • 7 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter RESERVE STUDIES Easy To use. Does Pretty much everything. It Our remarkably simple reserve study system. Our advanced reserve studies help you achieve a deeper engagement with your properties and a more effective way to manage them. Both today and tomorrow. And with total confidence. RESERVE™ ADVISORS Long-term thinking. Everyday commitment. For your reserve study proposal, contact Michelle Baldry at (844) 701-9884 or visit reserveadvisors.com. TREE...from page 7. In the past few years, legislation has periodically been proposed in Connecticut which would make it easier for people to hold their neigh- bors responsible for falling trees, but none of the proposals have passed. Courts have relied on these failures as the legislature's intent to keep the law as it is: that tree owners are usually not liable. Unless a tree's unsafe condition was either obvious or actually known to its owner, a person who is injured by it or whose property is damaged by it will have a hard time suing over it. Some courts have even suggested that a neighbor him- self might negligently contribute to damage – reducing or eliminating the
t or whose property is damaged by it will have a hard time suing over it. Some courts have even suggested that a neighbor him- self might negligently contribute to damage – reducing or eliminating the small degree of liability which exists - if he does not exercise his right to trim an overhanging branch before it falls. When an association or unit owner is concerned about someone else's nearby tree, communication is the best approach. Giving the neighbor a heads up about plans to trim the branches or roots back to the property line, or bringing to the neighbor's attention evidence that the tree appears diseased or unstable, is the right place to start. Depending on the tree's location, the town's tree warden may also be able to help. If you have reason to suspect a tree on your own asso- ciation's property is dead or diseased, a licensed arborist should be consulted, and the tree should be cut or removed if it poses any risk. ■ Adam J. Cohen is an attorney with the Law Firm of Pullman & Comley, LLC headquartered in Bridgeport, Connecticut. As the Chair of its Community Associations Section, he represents and gives seminars to condominiums, tax districts, and other communities in matters ranging from amendments of governing documents to revenue collection strategies and commercial disputes. S A HIGHER Level of Association MANAGEMENT Sentry Management joins with Phoenix Property Management. SENTRY Ssentry management® COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT 860-282-7733 30 Connecticut Boulevard | East Hartford, CT 06108 hartford.sentrymgt.com 8 CONNECT with CAI OiStockphoto.com It's time for our Annual Fall Fun event & The CAMMies! Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest FUN AHEAD Our Annual Night of Fall Fun is always a crowd pleaser. This is our 4th Annual CAMMIES Awards
t's time for our Annual Fall Fun event & The CAMMies! Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest FUN AHEAD Our Annual Night of Fall Fun is always a crowd pleaser. This is our 4th Annual CAMMIES Awards Presentation. Be sure to nominate your favorite Community Association Manager today! Don't miss the celebration! It's won't be FUN without you!! To register visit www.caict.org SPECIALIZING IN CONDOMINIUMS. Only 2% of Contractors in the U.S. are Master Elite. We can offer a 50 year guarantee! Thursday SEPTEMBER 27, 2018 5:30-8:30 pm Aqua Turf, Plantsville CONNECTICUT CHAPTER community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE GAF Master Elite WEADER STOPTE ROOFING CONTRACTOR Original Owner⚫Over 49 Years Serving Connecticut V. NANFITO GAF Master Elite Contractor ROOFING & SIDING Gutters ⚫ Replacement Windows ⚫ Remodeling LEAKS? DECKS KITCHENS SUN TUNNELS SKYLIGHTS Assistance with Insurance Claims BATHS MAINTENANCE POWERWASHING 800-916-6107 vnanfito.com Lic# 570192 CONNECT with CAI • 9 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter Financially Speaking... Frequently Asked Questions: Homeowners' Association Income Taxes By Marsha Elliott and Sam Tomasetti, CPA Marsha Elliott Sam Tomasetti, CPA CiStockphoto.com Question: If my homeowners' association is organized under the non-stock corporation act of the State of Connecticut as a not-for- profit entity why do I have to pay federal taxes? Answer: Organizing under the non-stock corporation act of the State of Connecticut as a not-for-profit entity does not exempt your Association from paying federal taxes on certain income. Explanation: Homeowners' associations, which are not Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 501(c) tax exempt organizations, are not exempt from federal taxation under current law even if they were orga-
Explanation: Homeowners' associations, which are not Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 501(c) tax exempt organizations, are not exempt from federal taxation under current law even if they were orga- nized under the non-stock corporation act of the State of Connecticut as a not-for-profit entity. For Federal tax purposes, homeowners’ associations are defined as residential condominium associations, real estate management associations or timeshares. A homeowners' asso- ciation basically has two choices when the annual Federal income tax return is filed. They can either elect to file as a homeowners' associa- tion under IRC Section 528 if certain requirements are met, or they can generally file as a regular corporation under IRC Section 277. When a homeowners' association elects to file under IRC Section 528 it must break down income and expense between exempt function activities and those that are entered into for the production of income such as laundry income and interest income earning activities (referred to as nonexempt function activities). Once this analysis is performed, the nonexempt function activities less any applicable expenses are taxed at the flat Federal rate only of 30% after a statutory allowance of $100 is deducted for homeowners' associations except timeshares which are taxed at 32%. In addition, electing to file as a homeown- ers' association provides an exemption from Connecticut corporate income taxes, if the return is timely filed.* On the other hand, when an association files an annual tax return (i.e. Federal Form 1120) according to IRC Section 277, it must ana- lyze the components of income and expense into membership and non-membership activities. The net non-membership income is taxed
turn (i.e. Federal Form 1120) according to IRC Section 277, it must ana- lyze the components of income and expense into membership and non-membership activities. The net non-membership income is taxed at regular corporate income tax rates for Federal and State purposes. Therefore, by filing the regular corporation return, the Association pays both federal and state taxes. This code section is more complex and typically is not the preferable filing option for many associations as it relates to the various code sections and revenue rulings applicable to this type of filing. However, it may provide a more favorable tax outcome depending on the Association's specific tax situation or may be a required filing if the 1120-H filing requirements are not met (see requirements below). 10 CONNECT with CAI "What types of homeowners' association income are considered taxable and non-taxable income if I file an 1120-H under IRC Section 528?" Question: Are there annual requirements to file the Federal Form 1120-H for Homeowners' Associations or can I just file it each year? Answer: Yes, there are requirements that must be met for this election, and if not met, the Association must file a corporate tax return (i.e. Federal Form 1120). Explanation: Certain "homeowners' associations" as defined for tax purposes are required to meet the following tests to qualify for the IRC Section 528 election to file an 1120-H: 1. Substantially Residential Test: This test requires that majority (about 85%) of the units in a homeowners' association be held for residential purposes except for timeshares. of 2. Sixty (60%) Income Test: This test requires that at least 60% of the association's gross income for the tax year be made up of exempt function income or income to carry out the “exempt” purpose
of 2. Sixty (60%) Income Test: This test requires that at least 60% of the association's gross income for the tax year be made up of exempt function income or income to carry out the “exempt” purpose the association which is to acquire, construct, manage, maintain and care for the property of the association. 3. Ninety (90%) Expenditure Test: This test requires that at least 90% of the homeowners' association's expenses for the tax year be for carrying out the "exempt” purpose of the association which is to acquire, construct, manage, maintain and care for association property. 4. Lack of Private Benefit Test: This test requires that no member of the homeowners' association profit from the net earnings of the association. In other words, profits or earnings can't be distributed to members of the association. Refunding excess members assess- ment or fees is not considered a distribution. Understanding the importance of meeting these test requirements and proper documentation are key for your association. Question: What types of homeowners' association income are considered taxable and non-taxable income if I file an 1120-H under IRC Section 528? Answer: In general, taxable non-exempt function income is pri- marily generated from 3 sources. Income from non-association proper- ty, income from non-members use of association property and amounts charged to members of the association for specific services. Non-taxable or exempt function income includes members' fees and assessments related to the exempt purpose of the homeowners' association. Explanation: The first source is typically made up of income received from investing activities such as interest income on invest- ments and if an association engages in commercial activities. The sec-
xplanation: The first source is typically made up of income received from investing activities such as interest income on invest- ments and if an association engages in commercial activities. The sec- ond source of non-exempt income can be items such as guest fees and certain other amounts received from non-members of the association. The third source is from special charges to individual members of the association. The following are examples of sources of non-exempt function or taxable income: SANDLER HANSEN & ALEXANDER LLC ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW 98 Washington Street, Third Floor Middletown, CT 06457 Phone: (860) 398-9090 Facsimile (860) 316-2993 www.shacondo.legal Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest Source 1 - Amounts received from investing/commercial activi- ties: Interest income (other than non-exempt interest), sale of assets, commercial business activities. - Source 2 Amounts received from/charged to non-members: Laundry facilities, vending machines, community room rental, stor- age room rental, garage parking rental, recreation facilities, rental of a unit owned by the association, golf courses, restaurants, boat rental, guest fees, and resale certifications to potential buyers. Source 3 Amounts assessed to members for specific services: Laundry facilities, non-refundable keys, community room rental, storage room rental, garage parking rental, recreation facilities, golf courses, restaurants, and boat rental. Examples of nontaxable or exempt function income are member common charges, assessment for major repairs and replacements, fees, fines and penalties to the members and move in/move out fees. The Association should be mindful that these are examples of types of income which could be subject to tax, but each association must
ees, fines and penalties to the members and move in/move out fees. The Association should be mindful that these are examples of types of income which could be subject to tax, but each association must understand its individual situation and assess the underlying purpose of the income being generated and document it. The above answers to Frequently Asked Questions regarding income taxes are general in nature but can provide your association with an underlying basis for learning about homeowners' association income taxation. However, for best practices, it is always important to [Continues on page 12.] Providing High Quality Legal Services to Connecticut Condominium & • Homeowner Associations Collecting common charges and foreclosing association liens Interpreting, amending and updating documents Scott J. Sandler, Esq.† Christopher E. Hansen, Esq. Michael S. Alexander, Esq. Fellow, College of Community Association Lawyers • Document and rule enforcement • Transition from declarant control • Negotiating and litigating with declarants • Reviewing, negotiating and litigating contracts • Representing associations borrowing from banks • Maintaining and updating corporate records and filings CONNECT with CAI 11 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter Attention CAI-CT Business Partners: Is your company seeking to offer education programs for our Community Association Managers? Would like to ensure these programs you are eligible for Continuing Education credits? Contact us. Be sure your programs are CAI-CT Approved! CONNECTICUT CHAPTER community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE GAI-07 APPROVED APPROVED FINANCIAL...from page 11. consult with your tax professional for advice regarding your specific tax situation and the application of the tax laws.
unity ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE GAI-07 APPROVED APPROVED FINANCIAL...from page 11. consult with your tax professional for advice regarding your specific tax situation and the application of the tax laws. *Please note: As of May 15, 2018, we are not aware of a change to the flat tax rate of 30% for Homeowners Associations filing Form 1120-H. However, there has been a change to the regular corporation tax rate which is now a flat tax rate of 21% effective for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017. Please consult your tax profes- sional regarding the change in the tax law and how these changes may be applicable to your Association. Sam Tomasetti, CPA is a principal in the accounting firm of Tomasetti, Kulas & Co., P.C. Sam served on the CAI-CT Board of Directors as its Treasurer from 1999-2003. He is currently Chairperson of the Publications and Marketing Committees. Sam is a frequent speaker at CAI-CT education programs. Marsha Elliott is staff supervisor and has worked with all the financial aspects of condominium associations in the past thirteen years at Tomasetti, Kulas & Company, P.C. Editor's Note: We wish to bid a fond farewell to Marsha Elliott. She has taken a new position in Stamford. Over the years, Marsha has contributed many articles to Common Interest, with the intention of helping our readers to better understand financial issues. We will miss her dedication and positive spirit! Call (860) 633-5692 or email kim@caict.org. Take Your Homeowners Association to the Next Level right this way Meeting the needs of Homeowners Association Lending and the professionals who serve them: • Competitive loan terms • Term sheets customized for your association's needs • Quick turn around and responsive service Lisa Allegro Vice President, Senior Relationship Manager
onals who serve them: • Competitive loan terms • Term sheets customized for your association's needs • Quick turn around and responsive service Lisa Allegro Vice President, Senior Relationship Manager lallegro@simsburybank.com 860.651.2064 LENDER Member FDIC 12 CONNECT with CAI Visit simsburybank.com/HOA Simsbury Bank. Bank this way. CT's Condo Insurance Specialists We are the largest insurers of Condominium Associations in Connecticut, it's our specialty. Let us help you make sense of coverage options with a review of your association's program. BOUVIER INSURANCE binsurance.com West Hartford, CT Waterford, CT Stamford, CT Danielson, CT Westerly, RI Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter O Glorious Golf! ur 142 golfers were treated to an absolutely spectacular day at the CAI-CT 19th Annual Golf tournament on June 11, 2018. The weather could not have been better and the great energy and camaraderie on the course made for a very fun and relaxed day. We wish to offer a big THANK YOU to our amazing Golf Committee. They worked hard to make certain the tournament was a great success. The committee has already begun planning for next year. Save the date: June 10, 2019! Golf Committee Chairperson: Carrie Mott Bouvier Insurance Paul Gray Certa Pro Painters of Mystic-Glastonbury Josh Suzio Bouvier Insurance Jim Torello Belfor Restoration Services Rick Torello - Belfor Restoration Services Diana Wilson, CMCA – KWA Group – Kuzmak-Williams & Associates, LLC An enormous part of the success of the event is due to the many wonderful volunteers who were with us from the early morning until the end. This event could not possibly run so smoothly without such an incredible team of volun- teers. Thank you! We also wish to thank to Alan Barberino and Deann Uberti
from the early morning until the end. This event could not possibly run so smoothly without such an incredible team of volun- teers. Thank you! We also wish to thank to Alan Barberino and Deann Uberti for using their photography talents to help capture the fun moments in pictures. (right) Scott J. Sandler, Esq., CCAL-Sandler, Hansen & Alexander, LLC (below) Alan Rosenberg, Esq. — Rosenberg & Rosenberg, P.C. 14 CONNECT with CAI SANDLER HANSEN & ALEXANDER, LLC (above) Elizabeth Wilkins & Kristyn Seabra — Bouvier Insurance (below) Richard Audet - Audet Property Management & Real Estate celebrates an Eagle! Our sponsors are fabulous! Thank you for your tremendous support of CAI-CT. Titanium Event Sponsor: GAF (above) Dianna Wilson, CMCA, Kevin Long, Ed Hughes, Richard Wilson — KWA Group - Kuzmak-Williams & Associates, L.L.C. - (above) Michael Famiglietti, CMCA — CM Property Management; Chas Ryan, Esq., EBP - Pilicy & Ryan, P.C.; Frank Pingelski, EBP & Peter Ferraris - Tooher-Ferraris Insurance Group (left) Kevin Cyr & Richard Bouvier — Bouvier Insurance Photos continue on the next page. Gold Sponsors: Bouvier Insurance ION Bank Silver Sponsor: CertaPro Painters of Mystic-Glastonbury White Tee Breakfast: GAF Beverage Cart Sponsors: Bouvier Insurance Sandler, Hansen & Alexander, LLC Banquet Sponsor: All-Waste, Inc. Registration Table Sponsor: Bouvier Insurance Scorecard Sponsor: Tooher-Ferraris Insurance Group 19th Hole Sponsor: BELFOR Property Restoration Lyman Orchard Pie Sponsor: Imagineers, LLC Water Sponsor: Scherneker Property Services, Inc. Driving Range: Collins Hannafin, P.C. Putting Contest: BELFOR Property Restoration 50/50 Contest: Windsor Federal Savings Hole in One Contest: Adam Quenneville Roofing & Siding Closest to Line: Greater New York Insurance
ns Hannafin, P.C. Putting Contest: BELFOR Property Restoration 50/50 Contest: Windsor Federal Savings Hole in One Contest: Adam Quenneville Roofing & Siding Closest to Line: Greater New York Insurance Longest Drive: Pro-Klean Cleaning & Restoration Closest to the Pin: United Cleaning & Restoration/Reficio Company Air Cannon Contest: CAU Snack Bag Sponsor: New Look Painting & Construction, Inc. Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter Golf...continued from previous page. (above) Pam Lacko, Richard Audet — Audet Property Management & Real Estate; John Maschi — Peter M. Bakker Agency, Inc.; Donna Rathbun, CMCA - Imagineers, LLC; Pamela Bowman, CMCA, EBP - Prime Touch Services; Alan Barberino, CMCA - Alan Barberino Real Estate, LLC (above) Doug Miller, Blaine Abaray, Thomas Daniel and Naree Song — Scherneker Property Services, Inc. (above) Eric Myers - Northeast Property Group, David B. Messier, Paul Gray and David Messier — CertaPro Painters of Mystic-Glastonbury 16 CONNECT with CAI (above) Jim Carroll — JP Carroll Roofing, Chad Smedberg, Jack Carroll, Luke Carroll (right) Licia Ciotti — United Cleaning & Restoration (left) Ken Camello - Savol Pools, Steve Weir & Bill Pacelia-American Integrity Restoration EZGO 22 (below) Merritt Loomis, Ben Harrison, Greg Arnold & Chip Corrado — GAF (below) Adam Quenneville, Adam Quenneville Roofing & Siding, Tim Warner-Pacific Premier Bank & Joe Rodgers - Carney, Roy & Gerrol, P.C. Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 • Common Interest LONGEST DRIVE (above) Rich Wechter, CMCA -- Westford Real Estate Management, LLC, Trish Palmer, Servpro, Nancy Liskiewicz, CMCA - Westford Real Estate Management, LLC & Nancy Liskiewicz, CMCA - Westford Real Estate Management, LLC (above) Joe Milano, Joe Cifarelli — Pro-Klean Cleaning & Restoration,
pro, Nancy Liskiewicz, CMCA - Westford Real Estate Management, LLC & Nancy Liskiewicz, CMCA - Westford Real Estate Management, LLC (above) Joe Milano, Joe Cifarelli — Pro-Klean Cleaning & Restoration, Chris White & Jake Piekarski (above) Steve Palmer, Bill Ward, Esq. — Ackerly & Ward, David Van Dyke and Tom Neville (below) Jean Walker -- Crystal Restoration Services of CT, _ Prez Carneiro — People's United Insurance Agency, Mea Anderson — Crystal Restoration Services of CT and Jennifer Glover — People's United Insurance Agency (above) Margaretann Fiderio & Dave Laferriere - Fiderio & Sons; Greg Grenier & Ivan Shiffman — ION Bank CONNECT with CAI • 17 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter Communication Corner... COMMUNITY The Community Association Meritorious Service Awards (The CAMMIES) By Bob Gourley Bob Gourley ¯n just four years, the CAMMIES have become the community asso- ciation management industry's pinnacle of excellence in our state. Complete with its own website at http://cammies.org, this awards program has all the hallmarks you would expect of any great industry award. There is hard work and competition amongst the nominees. There is an award for Rising Stars, who are the future of community association management in our state. There is an award for Management Executives who either manage other managers or very large associations in our state. They represent the stability and management excellence of the profession. And, then there is the coveted Manager of the Year Award. We save this award for the end of the presentations because it is such a high honor for the hard-working community association manager who wins. It is the ultimate recognition so richly deserved for the excellence in community
end of the presentations because it is such a high honor for the hard-working community association manager who wins. It is the ultimate recognition so richly deserved for the excellence in community association management put in by the nominee during the previous 12 months. There is a reason for the pomp and circumstance surrounding the event. It is the industry taking note of the best and brightest in the profession. They deserve our accolades. There have already been many notable and noteworthy CAMMIES Award Recipients. You can visit the website at http://cammies.org/ previous-winners/ to see all the previous winners. In 2017, Lynn Jackson, CMCA, AMS from The Property Group, LLC took home the CAMMIE for Community Association Manager Rising Star of the Year. Kevin Hellriegel, CMCA, AMS from Heritage Village was awarded the CAMMIE for Community Association Management Executive of the Year. The CAMMIE for Manager of the Year was awarded to Steven Cabaniss, CMCA from Westford Real Estate Management, LLC. All of these winners faced stiff competition from other worthy nominees, but these Community Association Managers were judged to be the best of the best. CAMMIES will be awarded in three categories this Awards year. will be given out to deserving Community Association Management superstars who work so diligently to make Connecticut's community associations among the most desirable in the nation. While there are specific differences in the judging criteria for each award, candi- dates will be judged on their excellence and proficiency in areas like Leadership, Ethics, Knowledge, Professionalism, Financial Ability, Communication Skills and more. Of course, dedication to CAI and its core values are highly rated as is ownership and maintenance of a State
ship, Ethics, Knowledge, Professionalism, Financial Ability, Communication Skills and more. Of course, dedication to CAI and its core values are highly rated as is ownership and maintenance of a State of Connecticut community association manager's license. Awards for Community Association Manager of the Year, Rising Star of the Year, and Executive of the Year are all up for grabs. Rising 18 OiStockphoto.com THE WINNER IS... "The awards will be given out on September 27, 2018 at the Night of Fall Fun..." Stars and Executives are, respectively, the future and stability of excel- lence in community association management in our state. The high- light of the evening is always the Community Association Manager of the Year. I expect this year will be no different. The CAMMIES Committee has defined the Manager of the Year as a Property Manager who manages a portfolio of community associa- tions. The Executive of the Year award will again go to someone who either manages other · managers, serves as an onsite manager of a large association, or owns or manages a property management company. The Rising Star of the Year will continue to be a community associa- tion manager with less than three years of industry experience. The awards will be given out on September 27, 2018 at the Night of Fall Fun at the Aqua Turf in Plantsville, CT. Nominations are open NOW and I may be made online at the CAMMIES website at http://cammies.org. Deadline for nominations is August 17, 2018. Details and more informa- tion is also available at the dedicated CAMMIES website. I am very proud of our chapter for embracing this program and recognizing all community association management professionals in our state. It is a difficult job that some make look so easy. There are
I am very proud of our chapter for embracing this program and recognizing all community association management professionals in our state. It is a difficult job that some make look so easy. There are countless hours of time and guidance given to Boards and community association members to help them deliver the best possible community association living experience to residents. The CAMMIES Awards is our way of recognizing that sacrifice and honoring the very best. I hope you will be a part of the program by nominating the candidate your choice and by joining us for the CAMMIES on September 27, 2018 at the Aqua Turf. Win or lose, it is an exciting night to honor those who give so much of themselves to make community association living better for all of us. of Bob Gourley is Chief Marketing Officer of HOALendingXchange and Founder of MyEZCondo, a firm that specializes in communication products for community associa- tions. Bob serves on the Publication, CAMMIES, and Website Committees and is a Past President of the Board of Directors for CAI-CT. ente ภ 2 shift Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest How will you fund your next association project? Get custom financing that's perfect for your budget and your association. No deposit relationship required. Let us find the financing that's right for you. Call me today! mutualofomahabank.com 171258 Erin Kremser VP, New England 860-459-4713 866-800-4656 ext.7481 erin.kremser@mutualofomahabank.com Mutual of OmahaBank > Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender Choose wisely. NEW ENGLAND CHAPTER community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE Making the right choice isn't easy. Even when you're comparing apples to apples. How can you be sure you're making the right building envelope decisions for your community?
nity ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE Making the right choice isn't easy. Even when you're comparing apples to apples. How can you be sure you're making the right building envelope decisions for your community? Talk to people with the experience to know. SPS Schernecker Property Services Thomas Daniel | 781-487-2517 | sps.solutions CONNECT with CAI 19 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter ASK MR. CONDO You Ask Mister Condo, Now Mister Condo Asks You! E very issue of Common Interest features an "Ask Mister Condo" Question submitted by a reader of the Ask Mister Condo website at http://askmistercondo.com. There are often many reasonable suggestions and solutions to condo questions. Mister Condo is asking you to participate and share your wisdom with the world. Review the question below and submit your answer in an email to askmistercondo@askmistercondo.com. Look for your answers in future issues of Common Interest. Here is this issue's Ask Mister Condo question: W.R. from New Haven County writes: Dear Mister Condo, I been having serious issues with the new president and other board members since I stepped down a year ago. This position went to the new president's head to the point where she put all my neighbor's business out in the community and when my neighbor addressed her via email she then called the management company to tell them she felt threatened by her. Then we were going back and forth via email about some of the bylaws & rules and as well as rumors that she was talking trash about me, she turned around and falsely accused me of threatening her and called the cops. The officers could not find any evidence of me doing that. Life for me has never been the same since. She doesn't like to be told what to
and falsely accused me of threatening her and called the cops. The officers could not find any evidence of me doing that. Life for me has never been the same since. She doesn't like to be told what to do and put my personal business concerning my email address in an email that went out to the entire community instead of addressing me only. How do I have her removed or handle this? Can I file a harassment charge against her and the board? In a previous Ask Mister Condo column, you were asked to help a reader with the following question: B.P. from Litchfield County writes: Dear Mister Condo, I live in a 55 and over condo community and they charge by square footage. The townhouses pay more than the ranches which I don't think is fair because all of us receive equal services such as plowing, mowing trash pickup, clubhouse use etc. I don't believe assessing by size of the units is proper. Any comments on this and what we can do to change it? Mister Condo replies: B.P., there is very little you can do to change the schedule of com- mon fee assessments and for good reason. The schedule of fees was part and parcel of every unit that was sold in your association. It is a legally binding agreement that both buyer and seller agreed to at the time of purchase. Further, it is an intrinsic part of the condo docu- ments that binds the unit owner to the association. I answered a similar question from a condo owner in Illinois not too long ago. You can find my full answer here: http://askmistercondo.com/validity-of-condo- percentage-of-unit-ownership-questioned. All the best! There are now more than 1,500 questions and answers on the “Ask Mister Condo" website! Since 2012, Mister Condo has been politely offering some of the best HOA and condo advice to readers just like
t! There are now more than 1,500 questions and answers on the “Ask Mister Condo" website! Since 2012, Mister Condo has been politely offering some of the best HOA and condo advice to readers just like you! Join in the friendly conversation on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn or on the website. Visit us at http://askmistercondo.com. There's plenty to talk about! NOTICE TO ALL CAI-CT MEMBERS Annual Meeting September 18, 2018 CAI-CT will hold its Annual Meeting on September 18, 2018 at 8:30am in our office at 1489 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT. Election of officers and board members will be held at this time. If you have any questions, or wish to make a nomination please contact us at 860-633-5692 or www.caict.org. CONNECTICUT CHAPTER Ann community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE 20 CONNECT with CAI Take the GUESSWORK out of your association's master insurance coverages. TM CondoLogic™ The industry leader in coordinating unit owner and master insurance policies to avoid costly gaps and redundancies. Contact us to schedule a free no obligation Condo Logic workshop today! Kristin Rathbun, Insurance Advisor krathbun@binsurance.com Toll free:1-800-357-2000 X 210 CondoLogic is a service of BOUVIER® INSURANCE binsurance.com Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter Manager's Column... Reggie Babcock Rich Wechter, CMCA - Being Practical, Part XLIX Out on a Limb How to Avoid Uncomfortable and Unnecessary Situations By Reg Babcock and Rich Wechter, CMCA In this column, we tackle various topics of interest to association boards of directors with the intent of imparting practical advice. This issue's column addresses two critical topics facing community association managers on a daily basis: the need to avoid situations where
of directors with the intent of imparting practical advice. This issue's column addresses two critical topics facing community association managers on a daily basis: the need to avoid situations where community association managers are asked by association boards to take on roles beyond those that they have signed up for or are asked to take actions without factual or legal foundation. We will set forth a number of examples of these situations and offer recommendations on how to deal with each such example. This review is by no means a complete analysis of this topic and we will likely note more examples in a future article. A. Setting the Table on this Topic One of the most common complaints heard from community association managers is the constant demand by association board members and residents to have community association managers extend themselves well beyond what is contracted for by management companies or to take actions that lack factual or legal foundation. In the first instance, it is always easy to ask the community associa- tion manager anything, whether or not they can properly opine on a particular subject. These questions cover legal, architectural, and engineering matters, to name a few. Community association managers are accessible and available much more readily than outside individuals and are considered the jack of all trades to the outside world. In the second instance of community association manager over-exten- sion, many association boards, in an effort to deal with mis-behaved unit owners and tenants, ask community association managers to take actions that have no factual or legal foundation, and, in some cases, belong in the venue of law enforcement authorities, and not the arena of condominium/
, ask community association managers to take actions that have no factual or legal foundation, and, in some cases, belong in the venue of law enforcement authorities, and not the arena of condominium/ homeowner associations. While the misbehavior is many times significant and potentially dangerous to neighboring residents, the position that com- munity association managers are put in by their boards places the com- munity association managers and the boards in a precarious position that could have been avoided had some thought been given to the actions taken. The following are just a few examples of community association managers being "Out on a Limb." B. Violations of Rules - The Need for Both a Factual and Legal Foundation We cannot count the number of times that board members have pushed for the issuance of either a violation letter or a Notice and Hearing letter without any factual or legal basis for the issuance 22 CONNECT with CAI OiStockphoto.com ROCK HARD PLACE "Community association managers must push back on such demands, no matter how 'hot' the pressure is to send out such letters without ...a factual basis..." of such letters. The most common justification for the issuance of such letters is the claim that the complained about conduct is "offensive" or not “appropriate for condominium/homeowner associations". Community association managers must push back on such demands, no matter how “hot” the pressure is to send out such letters without both a factual basis for such letters or any relevant provision of the association's governing documents. Community association managers must, in all such instances con- firm the following: 1. A factual basis for the claimed violation. This requires the establish-
of the association's governing documents. Community association managers must, in all such instances con- firm the following: 1. A factual basis for the claimed violation. This requires the establish- ment of the date, time, location, conduct that is the subject of the claimed violation, witnesses to the conduct, and any other informa- tion that the community association manager needs to properly draft the appropriate letter and the board needs to ultimately adju- dicate the matter; 2. The citation to the specific provision(s) in the association's govern- ing documents that is/are being violated by the subject unit owner/ resident in order to establish a legal basis for the issuance of a warn- Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest ing letter or Notice and Hearing letter. While it is not the role of the community association manager to opine on the sufficiency of the proof offered for any violation, there still needs to be a basic understanding of what provision(s) of the governing documents is/ are allegedly being violated; and 3. The community association manager must confirm that the enforce- ment of the association governing documents is being made consis- tently, without bias or prejudice or favoritism. C. Some Conduct is Better Suited to be Handled by Law Enforcement Authorities Association Boards are charged with rules enforcement. There are a multitude of issues that association boards must address, many on a daily basis. Some residents of condominium/home- owner communities, to say this politely, have no ability to play well with others, whether fellow residents of the community or elsewhere. Circumstances do arise where the conduct of a resident rises to a level that demands action or, at the very least, commu-
play well with others, whether fellow residents of the community or elsewhere. Circumstances do arise where the conduct of a resident rises to a level that demands action or, at the very least, commu- nication with law enforcement authorities. Examples of such con- duct include, but are not limited to, verbal or physical threats or intimidation of others, and criminal conduct (selling drugs being a prime example). The handling of such matters is better suited with law enforcement authorities, and not by community association managers and association boards. The potential punishment that [Continues on page 24.] Take Action with Authority Condominium and Community Association Representation Common Charge Collection •Foreclosure Litigation ⚫Rules Enforcement Governing Document Revision and Amendments • Loan Closings • Contract Negotiation Developer/Declarant Issues Municipal Zoning Matters • General Representation and Litigation ZNC LAWI & Cooper, P.C. Zeldes, Needle Joseph Cessario Attorney at Law 1000 Lafayette Boulevard, Bridgeport, CT 06604 263 Tresser Boulevard, Stamford, CT 06901 T. 203-333-9441 | F. 203-333-1489 ZNCLaw.com Robert A. Pacelli, Jr. Attorney at Law WHILE OTHERS SEEK TO SELL A POLICY, RA WE BELIEVE IN THE VALUE OF A RELATIONSHIP. We specialize in providing master policies to condominium and homeowners' associations. • Multiple companies to choose from for best pricing • Coverage advice to best protect your property and liability • Personal inspections of all properties We look forward to assisting you. REARDON AGENCY INSURANCE Mallory Reardon Kevin Reardon Susan Reardon 26 CLARK LANE WATERFORD, CT 06385 860.442.1396 REARDONAGENCY.COM CONNECT with CAI 23 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter MANAGER'S...from page 23.
Reardon Kevin Reardon Susan Reardon 26 CLARK LANE WATERFORD, CT 06385 860.442.1396 REARDONAGENCY.COM CONNECT with CAI 23 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter MANAGER'S...from page 23. the judicial system can impose is far greater and more powerful than what an association can do itself. Moreover, such matters are, by their very nature, highly volatile, and community association managers and association board members are not suited to get themselves in the middle of such matters. D. Community association Managers are not Lawyers While the role of community association manager takes us into the world of lawyers, litigation, and contracts, we are not lawyers and must take affirmative steps to avoid crossing the line between com- munity association manager and lawyer. Lawyers must opine on legal matters while community association managers should refrain from doing so. Community association managers can review and discuss provisions of the governing documents while the ultimate legal opin- ion on the meaning and application of governing document provisions must come from the lawyer. Association board members will generally seek to have commu- nity association managers cross that fine line. Community association managers need to resist that push and, at the very least, preface any discussion on the governing documents by noting that any opinion provided is a lay opinion, as community association manager and not as the lawyer for the association. E. Community association Managers are not Outside Consultants While the role of community association manager includes involve- ment with a multitude of construction projects, many of which include detailed plans and specifications, we are not engineers or architects and
role of community association manager includes involve- ment with a multitude of construction projects, many of which include detailed plans and specifications, we are not engineers or architects and should not be in the business of offering opinions that are the province of engineers and architects. While our work provides us with a degree of familiarity of the “language” of engineers and architects, we are not licensed to act as consultants and do so at our respective peril. F. Conclusion Community association managers and the many people that work side by side with them in Connecticut must protect themselves and their respective association boards from acting without factual and legal grounds on rules violations. Too much is at stake for such actions to be taken without thought and analysis. It is safe to state that community association managers wear many different hats while performing their daily jobs. While that is part of what we signed up for, we did not and should not be wearing the hats of lawyer, engineer or consultant under any circumstance. Leave those hats on the shelf. We hope that this article will aid community association managers on these critical matters. The authors work for Westford Real Estate Management, LLC. Reg Babcock is Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel and Rich Wechter, CMCA is Senior Vice President. Building Renewal, LLC (the chimney cap guys) We Measure - Fabricate - Install ▪ Never a Middleman Chimney Cap Replacement - Decks - Exterior Repairs HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS HBRA ASOCIATION OF CENTRAL CONNECTI 24 CONNECT with CAI Our 46th year in business 45R Ozick Drive ▪ Suite 19 Durham, CT 06422 Tel: 860-372-4554 ▪ www.buildingrenewal.net CAI-CT member MEMBER OF ANA community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 •
46th year in business 45R Ozick Drive ▪ Suite 19 Durham, CT 06422 Tel: 860-372-4554 ▪ www.buildingrenewal.net CAI-CT member MEMBER OF ANA community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 • Common Interest Cyber Liability, Computer Fraud and Your Condominium By Rich Bouvier, CIC Rich Bouvier, CIC T The future of insurance will definitely require close attention to claims arising out of the use of the internet, computers, the need to protect data, and funds transmitted electronically. Cyber crime seems to make the news regularly these days and I believe this is truly the tip of the iceberg considering how paperless and automated we have become. First we must define cyber liability. Cyber Liability is the risk of having electronic data stolen over the internet, computers and other means of electronic data storage as well as the obligation to restore the data and other responsibilities you have to those whose data you compromised. The data of concern is the sensitive personal information also referred to as personally identifiable information. This can include names, addresses, dates of birth and most notably, social security num- bers we can certainly include privacy passwords for computers and other portable devices, email accounts, online banking, and just about anything that could identify, track down or emulate another person. The theft of this information has made news headlines quite regu- larly for many years running. From large store chains to universities to health insurance providers, these headlines usually highlight the massive data breaches. There are multitudes of smaller home town local breaches that paralyze businesses and individuals and these won't make the nightly news feeds. Cyber Liability insurance policies are designed to be the source of
multitudes of smaller home town local breaches that paralyze businesses and individuals and these won't make the nightly news feeds. Cyber Liability insurance policies are designed to be the source of funds to help you, the named insured, with the costs associated with your responsibilities to the breached parties such as legal fees, notifica- tion, restoration of personal identities, recreating the lost or destroyed data and the costs associated with fixing or replacing the hardware damaged during the event such as computers, servers, tablets, laptops and or smartphones. Now let's define the theft of association money. This is a Computer Fraud and or Wire Transfer Fraud. This is a bit more specific and requires a different type of insurance. Rather than Cyber Liability, association funds are best protected by a properly written Crime policy – often referred to as Employee Dishonesty Coverage. - Currently, crime policies are required to protect association funds, and many insurance providers have added the ability to add coverage for Computer Fraud or Wire Transfer Fraud. Not all insurance com- panies do this automatically – some do, some don't. This coverage is not expensive, it is readily available and absolutely worthy of a conver- sation with your insurance agent to determine if you have it and if not, how much it is to add it to your community's portfolio. OiStockphoto.com "How we treat archive information really caught attention. We save my everything now, but do you really need to?" We often hear about identity theft, credit monitoring and services such as LifeLock. There is a wide array of service providers that do credit scoring and credit monitoring, as well as personal credit freezes that can absolutely help prevent identify theft; More often though
LifeLock. There is a wide array of service providers that do credit scoring and credit monitoring, as well as personal credit freezes that can absolutely help prevent identify theft; More often though these services are sought out after a problem occurs. To date I have had only one known personal breach wherein someone attempted to file a tax return in my name. Fortunately, the IRS was able to notice that the attempted return was significantly different than what was previously filed and they froze that return allowing me to contest it with the assistance of my personal accountant. Crisis averted! Even to this day, I have no idea how my information was obtained to get as far as they did. There are keys to limiting exposure; some we have heard a few times over the years. Similar to prohibiting the use of charcoal grills or mandat- ing that hot water tanks be replaced every ten years to reduce the risk of property related claims, there are things that you can do to reduce your exposure to cyber threats. These include: Updating passwords for bank accounts, email accounts, ATM pin numbers and other private means of personal access. Using secure or encrypted email, password protect laptops, smart phones, tablets are common place these days, but don't tape the password on the bottom of the device and try to change them regularly to multi-character/symbol passwords to put up the good fight against them being stolen and reused. How we treat archive information really caught my attention. We save everything now, but do you really need to? This is an impor- tant decision as purging the unnecessary data in a proper and secure fashion is a quick and easy way to reduce your exposures. Password [Continues on page 26.] CONNECT with CAI 25
o? This is an impor- tant decision as purging the unnecessary data in a proper and secure fashion is a quick and easy way to reduce your exposures. Password [Continues on page 26.] CONNECT with CAI 25 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter CYBER LIABILITY...from page 25. protect archive files and store them offline (thumb drive or external hard drive). Ari Santiago, CEO & President of IT Direct, a nationally award winning technology success provider in West Hartford, CT was kind enough to share an 8 point list to help limit your risk of cyber crime: 1. The first step should be an inventory of systems and data. Make a list of all the various systems, applications and documents that are used and identify which of those have private, personal or confiden- tial information as well as what that information is. 2. Looking at the systems and data inventory list determine which information is actually required and stop collecting the rest. Additionally, delete as much historical data as possible. 3. Use an established best practices frame work to complete a cyber security review to make sure that typical best practices are being fol- lowed. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has a framework in their publication 800-171 that can provide a good outline. 4. If you are collecting and process credit cards on a recurring basis, use a third-party cloud processor that stores and secures the data for you and don't keep the full account information on any local systems 5. Make sure that all bank and financial accounts being used by the association have multi-factor authentication setup. If your finan- Common Interest CIOA FINANCIAL TRANSITION DISAPPEARING BOARD MEMBERS community Share your news and expertise! CONNECTICUT CHAPTER Aña community
n have multi-factor authentication setup. If your finan- Common Interest CIOA FINANCIAL TRANSITION DISAPPEARING BOARD MEMBERS community Share your news and expertise! CONNECTICUT CHAPTER Aña community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE Common Interest welcomes the submission of articles, news and announcements subject to space limitations, editing and appropriateness, including educational value. The Common Interest Publication Committee will make every effort to publish articles submitted and may even be able to help you with your submission. Please call (860) 633-5692 or E-mail: kim@caict.org for more information. cial institution doesn't offer multi-factor authentication for online servicing either disable the ability to use online tools or switch to a different company. 6. Make sure you have a backup solution for all data that runs auto- matically (i.e. without human intervention) and is monitored to make sure that it is successfully running. 7. Review contracts with any cloud services that contain sensitive, confidential or personal data and make sure that they take responsi- bility for any data leakage that may occur. 8. Repeat the above on an annual basis. The first will be time consum- ing, though subsequent years should be quick and easy. Consider this the ounce of prevention to prevent the very painful pound of cure! "Prevention will remain the best medicine, but insurance products are available as a second means of protection if the first defense is insufficient." Chas Ryan, Esq., EBP, of Pilicy & Ryan, P.C. in Watertown, CT told me: “Cyber related concerns for communities and management companies are a real and growing threat. A thoughtful approach to addressing these issues will prove to be effective and useful. Being proactive will often times save the
or communities and management companies are a real and growing threat. A thoughtful approach to addressing these issues will prove to be effective and useful. Being proactive will often times save the day rather than assuming a forced defensive posture after the fact..." "Trust, but verify. We see email fraud cases all the time. An email comes in from what appears to be a bank you are currently doing business with or a client you have been communicating with. The email provides wiring instructions or instructions to send a check to a certain person/company. Before any money is sent, contact a known person at the company and confirm he or she sent the email, confirm the address where money is to be sent, confirm the wiring instructions (if any), and the amount to be sent. Too often, a computer is hacked and the criminals patiently monitor emails. When the time is right, they send an email that looks almost identical to the bank's email or your client's email but has changed a phone number, a mailing address, or wire instructions, for example. Without having a policy in place for verifying the information, it is too easy to comply with the email. Once the money is sent, it is almost impossible to recover." As the threats grow, consult with your insurance agent to determine how best to protect your community. Prevention will remain the best medicine, but insurance products are available as a second means of protection if the first defense is insufficient. Fortunately, there is more information to come. Managers, please join us on August 2nd from 3PM to 5PM at Amarante's Sea Cliff in East Haven for the Cyber Security & Fraud seminar hosted by the Connecticut Chapter of CAI. ■ Rich Bouvier, CIC is a partner with Bouvier Insurance. He is a past president
M at Amarante's Sea Cliff in East Haven for the Cyber Security & Fraud seminar hosted by the Connecticut Chapter of CAI. ■ Rich Bouvier, CIC is a partner with Bouvier Insurance. He is a past president of CAI-CT and currently serves on our Membership Committee. Rich is a frequent speaker at CAI-CT education programs as well. 26 CONNECT with CAI Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 • Common Interest Paradise at Shorehaven s most of our community association managers know, some- times you just can't predict what will happen. Most of the ele- ments for our Annual Paradise Event were in place: fantastic committee, terrific sponsors, lots of great attendees and an excellent program. However, we learned 48 hours in advance of the event that our main speaker, from the FBI, was told no one from the New Haven office could leave due to some recent restructuring issues. Not to worry though, we recruited a replacement who was eager to jump in. But, his car broke down on the New Jersey Turnpike on his way to our event. Ugh! Nevertheless, our remaining speakers for the timely topics saved the day! They offered some excellent information with plenty of time for Q&A. We are grateful to: Steve Berg, Esq. – Frankel & Berg; Adam Quenneville - Adam Quenneville Roofing & Siding, Inc., Scott Andersen Peoples United Insurance (He was a replacement speaker for someone whose flight was cancelled!) and Jean Walker – Crystal Restoration Services of Connecticut. - - The networking portion of the event was enjoyable. Thanks to all who attended! We are grateful for our sponsors for their wonderful support of this event! Premium Sponsors: Bouvier Insurance Crystal Restoration Services of Connecticut DiMatteo Group JSD Protective Services Peoples United Insurance Plaza Realty & Management Corporation Sava Tree
s event! Premium Sponsors: Bouvier Insurance Crystal Restoration Services of Connecticut DiMatteo Group JSD Protective Services Peoples United Insurance Plaza Realty & Management Corporation Sava Tree Event Sponsors: GNY Insurance On the Mark Management Pilera Property Management Software - (right) Michelle Ifill — Roseau & Helen Harris Deer Hill Arms 1 & Dena Liberman - On the Mark Management (below) Mike Knobloch - TAMKO Building Products, Inc. and Rich Wechter, CMCA - Westford Real Estate Management, LLC (left) Steve Berg, Esq. — Frankel & Berg, Jackie Moccia, CMCA, AMS & Lynn Jackson CMCA, AMS — The Property Group, Inc. (above) Jennifer Murphy, Rebecca St. Germain & Lisa Brand - Dimatteo Insurance & James Anderson - Just Like Home Property Management (above) Carrie Mott, EBP - Bouvier Insurance, Rick Torello-BELFOR Property Restoration, Joanne Ravich-The Property Group, Inc., Mark Liberman, CMCA, AMS- On the Mark Management CONNECT with CAI 27 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter TECHNICAL EXPLANATIONS This column appears in each edition and is intended to touch on technical topics of general interest to common interest associations. Topics will be of a general nature, but I will also accept and respond to questions from readers. On occasion, it will be guest authored when topics can best be addressed by experts in other fields. Timothy Wentzell, P.E. A Insurance And Building Codes By Timothy Wentzell, P.E. local condominium association had a small fire in one of their units, and they recently contacted me with a series of tions that their insurance carrier had raised. Although the ques- fire was relatively minor, it had been decided to remove the drywall in numerous areas as well as the carpeting to prevent mildew damage.
ns that their insurance carrier had raised. Although the ques- fire was relatively minor, it had been decided to remove the drywall in numerous areas as well as the carpeting to prevent mildew damage. The condominium association had insurance that covered required code updates, and their contractor had raised the issue of including numerous code updates to this unit as part of the repairs. Specifically, the contractor had raised the issue of making all of the load-bearing walls in the unit to a two-hour fire rating. This would include several of the separating walls within the unit as well as the external walls, the dividing wall between this unit and the adjacent unit, and the ceil- ings as these were patio-style units and a unit existed above the fire- damaged unit. The Association's insurance carrier was questioning whether this work was required. The crux of this issue lies in some ambiguity that exists with regard to the adopted international building code and how it is being applied by local municipalities. The international building code, which was adopted by the State of Connecticut, is divided into two code manu- als. One is called simply, “International Building Code,” whereas the second is called, “International Existing Building Code." The distinction between the two is intended, in my opinion, to differenti- ate between buildings that are in existence that need renovation and/ or repair versus a major rebuilding of a structure and for entirely new structures. The International Existing Building Code states as follows, "Level 1 alterations include the removal and replacement or the covering of existing materials, elements, equipment, or fixtures using new materials, elements, equipment, or fixtures that serve the
s, "Level 1 alterations include the removal and replacement or the covering of existing materials, elements, equipment, or fixtures using new materials, elements, equipment, or fixtures that serve the same purpose,” which would appear to apply in this case as only the drywall and carpeting were to be removed. The International Existing Building Code further goes on to state that for this level of repair, "Alterations shall be done in a manner that maintains the level of fire protection provided.” This would imply that, as no structural ele- ments were removed from the building, the existing type and thickness of drywall could simply be reinstalled and the building put back into functional use. I would question, if there are any code issues related to the initial construction, whether prudent judgment would dictate CiStockphoto.com "The crux of this issue lies in some ambiguity that exists with regard to the adopted international building code and how it is being applied by local municipalities." that these be rectified. The International Building Code would require load-bearing walls that are supporting a separate dwelling unit above to be of fire-rated construction, as well as the ceilings in this instance, and dividing walls are required to have appropriate fire resistant construction in any new structure or structures that are significantly rebuilt or modified. This, however, brings us to the core of the question, which is whether or not the local municipal building authorities will interpret these requirements in a similar manner. This, by the way, has always been an issue in a state like Connecticut where the building officials are the code enforcement agents for their municipality. In many cases, we
ments in a similar manner. This, by the way, has always been an issue in a state like Connecticut where the building officials are the code enforcement agents for their municipality. In many cases, we have found very significant differences between the approaches taken [Continues on page 33.] 28 CONNECT with CAI Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest A Little Oxygen Goes A Long Way Customized Fountain and Pond Aeration Solutions Fountain aren't just attractive additions to labas and stormwater ponds; they provide needed antenation throughout the water column. Well-rated we can help prevent the occurrence of underable algas and fish dis while reducing sediment bulldup. Let us design a custom sertion solution to help keep your community's waterbodies healths beautiful and balanced. WANT TO LEARN MORE? DOWNLOAD OUR FREE GUIDE: "All About Aeration" www.aditudalalamanagement.com/pond-aration Festoring Balanca. Enhancing Beauty. 855.534.3545⚫ solitudelakemanagement.com For a full but of our supersoffringe, weltw SOLITUDE LAKE MANAGEMENT PAST THE E LEADING EDGE EXTERIORS YOUR CONDOMINIUM REMODELING SPECIALISTS CALL FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE 860.632.0050 HIC# 0641570 ROOFING & SIDING GUTTERS | WINDOWS | DOORS | DECKS LEADINGEDGEEXTERIORSLLC.COM GAF Master Elite WEATHER STOPPER ROOFING CONTRACTOR BBB ACCREDITED BUSINESS CONNECT with CAI 29 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter Have You Considered Hydro-raking as an Aquatic Management Tool? By Emily Walsh C ommunity lakes and storm- water ponds can be used to attract native wildlife, facilitate recreation and enhance the beauty of a HOA property. But, over the course of many years, these aquatic resources may experience sedimentation, nutri- ent loading and other water quality problems. If a waterbody is not prop-
the beauty of a HOA property. But, over the course of many years, these aquatic resources may experience sedimentation, nutri- ent loading and other water quality problems. If a waterbody is not prop- erly managed, it will eventually fill in with muck and other organic materials until depths are significantly reduced. To help restore volume, reduce the pos- sibility of flooding during rainstorms, and improve overall water quality, it's important to consider hydro-raking as a proactive management tool. If you own or manage an association with lakes and ponds, you've likely heard of hydro-raking as a unique strategy utilized by aquatic profession- als to remove aquatic vegetation and “bottom sludge." A hydro-rake is essentially a floating barge supporting a mounted backhoe and rake attachment that can remove up to 500 pounds of lake and pond muck, plant material and organic debris in a single scoop. The hydro-rake has the ability to target certain areas of nuisance and/or invasive aquatic vegetation, while conserving other areas in their natural state. This is crucial in the eyes of aquatic management, which is geared towards retaining and restoring balance within the waterbody's ecosystem. Maintaining an equilibrium of native vegeta- tion enhances the potential for increased species richness and ecosys- tem resilience – the ability to maintain balance despite challenges posed by nutrient loading, water stratification and other factors that can affect water quality. In addition to proactively managing vegeta- tion, hydro-raking can help reduce or prolong the need for dredging, which is often the costliest project a homeowners' association will ever face. - While the hydro-rake is not a suitable management strategy in every
g can help reduce or prolong the need for dredging, which is often the costliest project a homeowners' association will ever face. - While the hydro-rake is not a suitable management strategy in every situation, it can be extremely effective when used to control several types of vegetation often found in waterbodies used for recreation, community fishing, the collection of stormwater runoff, or simply the enjoyment of their aesthetic beauty. Emergent Species Emergent vegetation such as cattails, common reed and maidencane are common plants that can plague waterbodies; however, removal can be achieved by utilizing the hydro-rake as a stand-alone management option 30 CONNECT with CAI (above) Hydro-raking: Hydro-raking can be an extremely effective management tool for the removal and reduction of nuisance aquatic plants found in community lakes, stormwater ponds and private waterbodies. (below) Emergent Vegetation: Emergent vegetation that thrive in shallow lakes and stormwater ponds, like water lily and water willow species, are suitable candidates for removal by hydro-rake. or as a complement to other management approaches. Emergent plants are fantastic candidates for the hydro-rake because they are usually found along the edge of the waterbody, where they can be easily accessed by the rake attachment. During the removal process, the hydro-rake will extract the plant in its entirety, as well as its attached rhizome (root) structure lain beneath the water's surface. Because the hydro-rake works from the water Photos courtesy SOLitude Lake Management. rather than land, desirable ornamental and buffer plant species along the shoreline are not impacted. Floating Leaf Species The hydro-rake is effective when removing common floating leaf
e Management. rather than land, desirable ornamental and buffer plant species along the shoreline are not impacted. Floating Leaf Species The hydro-rake is effective when removing common floating leaf vegetation such as water lily and watershield. These plant species are ideal for hydro-rake management, due to their leaf structure and attached root systems underneath. As with common reed and cattail removal, the hydro-rake can remove the plants, as well as the root structures. Open water is then restored, thus enhancing the ability of native aquatic flora and fauna to repopulate the area. Other common floating-leaf species, such as water hyacinth, water chestnut, and water lotus are additional candidates for hydro-raking service. Submersed Species Submersed species such as curly-leaf pondweed, big leaf pond- weed and tape grass can be effectively managed through hydro- raking. These prescribed programs can provide sufficient plant reduction, especially when combined with herbicide management options. As with any management strategy, it's important to always consider the biology of the targeted plant before beginning a hydro-raking project. Some submersed plants, such as such as milfoil and fanwort spread heavily through fragmentation and may require alternate management strategies to ensure fragmentation and repopulation do not occur. Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest Hydro-raking is a management tool used in a wide array of aquatic restoration projects ranging from inlets, outlets, littoral zones, coves, private shorelines, and more. Aquatic vegetation removal projects can be performed any time of year, but the best time is when the nutrients are in the vegetative structure; this is relative to the associated region, weather conditions, and plant biol-
oval projects can be performed any time of year, but the best time is when the nutrients are in the vegetative structure; this is relative to the associated region, weather conditions, and plant biol- ogy. When considering this service, the first step is to contact your local lake and pond management profes- sional to conduct a site visit. During "Hydro-raking is a management tool used in a wide array of aquatic restoration projects..." this time, they will identify nuisance plant species and management areas, and consider a strategy that aligns with your association's long- term waterbody goals. As with any form of proactive management, hydro-raking can help improve the health, longevity and beauty of your community's lake or stormwater pond for years to come, but is most effective when used in conjunction with other preventative management methods, including aeration, buffer management, nutrient remediation and other strategies that prevent the premature aging, or filling in with sediment, of the waterbody. Emily Walsh is an experienced Environmental Scientist with SOLitude Lake fisheries management solutions. Learn more about this topic at www.solitudelakeman- Management, an environmental firm providing sustainable lake, pond, wetland and agement.com/knowledge. BBB ACCREDITED PAINTING & New Look CONSTRUCTION • Painting • Roofs . Siding • Decks • Windows Main Office SERVICING CONDOMINIUM AND HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS SINCE 1978 www.nlpcinc.com CAI-CT MEMBER MEMBER OF community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE 860.633.1319 | Shoreline Office 203.974.9852 CONNECT with CAI 31 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter ENVIRONMENTAL TIP Have you ever passed by a giant lawn during a rainstorm and noticed the sprinklers running full tilt — in the pouring
with CAI 31 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter ENVIRONMENTAL TIP Have you ever passed by a giant lawn during a rainstorm and noticed the sprinklers running full tilt — in the pouring rain? Is this the best use of a natural resource? Associations can save money on their water bills and keep their lawns looking great by working closely with their landscaping contractors. Most lawns need watering only once per week in order to stay lush and green. How mush water would you community save by watering only weekly? CAI-CT's 2018 Night of Fall Fun Celebrating CAMMIES Awards Night Thursday, September 27, 2018 5:30-8:30pm The Aqua Turf, Plantsville Enjoy phenomenal hot hors d'oeuvres, cheese & vegetable crudités & pasta station. Dessert, coffee & tea too! $75 Business Partners $50 Community Association Managers Sponsorships Available Register at www.caict.org ADAM QUENNEVILLE ROOFING SIDING WINDOWS We guarantee we will deliver results which exceed your expectations BBB 2010 Winner BBB Torch Awards Trust Performance Integri 100 Trade Center, G-700 Woburn, MA 01801 855.552.6273 GAF Master Elite WEATHER STOPPER ROOFING CONTRACTOR | 160 Old Lyman Rd South Hadley, MA 01075| • MEMBER OF community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE WWW.1800NEWROOF.NET 728 Bamum Ave Stratford, CT 06614 CT HIC # 575920 • MA HIC # 120982 • MA CSL # 070626 • RI Reg. # 36301 • ME CHARTER # 20110918F 32 CONNECT with CAI OiStockphoto.com Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest TECHNICAL EXPLANATIONS...from page 28. on these types of issues. Local code officials seem to have considerable latitude in determining the applicability of different codes in different circumstances, especially when it comes to fire safety issues. Therefore, I did not have a clear answer to respond to this ques-
titude in determining the applicability of different codes in different circumstances, especially when it comes to fire safety issues. Therefore, I did not have a clear answer to respond to this ques- tion. It certainly would appear to me that the International Existing Building Code would apply in this case. However, if your local building authorities decide otherwise, you may be caught between the opinion of your local building officials and the opinion of your insur- ance carrier. While your local building officials may require these code updates, the insurance carrier may certainly have issues, possibly cor- rectly, with regard to whether or not they should be held responsible for payment of these repairs. Please address any questions or areas of interest that you would like answered in future columns to Timothy Wentzell, P.E., Connecticut Property Engineering, 630 Governor's Highway, South Windsor, CT 06074 (860-289-8121) (e-mail: ConnPropEng@cox.net). Is your community facing tough legal issues? Save time, money and frustration by hiring an attorney who's a specialist! Discover fellows of the College of Community Association Lawyers (CCAL). You'll know you're being represented by one of the best community association lawyers in the country. Find a roster of CCAL fellows online at www.caionline.org/ccal or call (888) 221-4321 (M-F, 9-6 p.m. ET). community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE LAW OFFICES OF TABLA Feldman, Perlstein & Greene LLC PROVIDING LEGAL SERVICES TO CONDOMINIUM AND HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS THROUGHOUT CONNECTICUT Document Interpretation and Association Governance Document and Rule Enforcement and Litigation Unit Owner Disputes Transition from Declarant Control Defect Litigation Construction Disputes and Construction •
Interpretation and Association Governance Document and Rule Enforcement and Litigation Unit Owner Disputes Transition from Declarant Control Defect Litigation Construction Disputes and Construction • Contract Review, Negotiation, and Litigation Insurance and Property Damage Claims Personal Injury Claims Employment and Housing Discrimination Counseling and Claims Common Charge Collections and Foreclosures Association Borrowing Document Amendments and Restatements MICHAEL FELDMAN BOARD CERTIFIED CIVIL TRIAL LAWYER MATTHEW N. PERLSTEIN FELLOW, COLLEGE OF COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION LAWYERS KRISTEN SCHULTZE GREENE KASEY PROCKO BURCHMAN JONATHAN R. CHAPPELL KELLY A. FREITAS 10 WATERSIDE DRIVE, SUITE 303 FARMINGTON, CT 06032 TELEPHONE (860)-677-2177 or (860) 677-0551 FACSIMILIE (860) 677-0019 WWW.CTCONDOLAW.COM CONNECT with CAI 33 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter W Thunderstorm Safety - Avoiding a Lightning Strike arm weather usually means fun in the sun, but summer heat also can bring severe weather. Threatening thunderstorms often loom large on summer : afternoons so it's important to be prepared for downpours and accompanying lightning, which can strike outdoors or indoors. Consider the following suggestions when planning both outdoor and indoor events this summer to reduce the risk of a lightning strike. • Watch the weather. Pay attention to your local weather forecast before participating in outdoor activities. If there's a chance of thunderstorms, consider rescheduling or moving events indoors. If that's not possible, have an emergency plan in place in case a severe storm rolls in and designate a sufficient nearby structure as an emergency shelter. • Stay inside. If severe thunderstorms are imminent, go indoors and wait
an emergency plan in place in case a severe storm rolls in and designate a sufficient nearby structure as an emergency shelter. • Stay inside. If severe thunderstorms are imminent, go indoors and wait until they pass. Safe, enclosed shelters include homes, schools, offices, shopping malls and vehicles with hard tops and closed windows. Open structures and spaces do not provide adequate protection. • Duck and crouch. If you're caught outside during a severe storm, it's important to crouch low on the ground, tuck your head and cover your ears to help protect yourself from harm. Do not lie down; lightning strikes can produce extremely strong electrical cur- rents that run along the top of the ground, and laying horizontally increases electrocution risk. • Turn off faucets. During a thunderstorm, lightning can sometimes be conducted through the plumbing. Avoid any type of contact with "Pay attention to your local weather forecast before participating in outdoor activities." running water, including bathing, showering, and washing your hands, dishes, or clothes. • Turn off electronics. All electrical appliances -televisions, comput- ers, laptops, gaming systems, stoves, and more—that are plugged into an electrical outlet could carry a current from a lightning strike. Surge protectors will reduce the risk of damaging electronics. • Stay away from windows. Not only is lightning a threat, but high winds and hail create flying debris that could be harmful during a thun- derstorm. Close all windows and doors and keep away from them. Source: CAI - Copyright-free articles for homeowners. The Falcon Group Engineers, Architects and Reserve Specialists www.falconengineering.com info@falconengineering.com (800) 839-7740 fin 1266 E. Main Street, Suite 700R Stamford, Connecticut 06902
ners. The Falcon Group Engineers, Architects and Reserve Specialists www.falconengineering.com info@falconengineering.com (800) 839-7740 fin 1266 E. Main Street, Suite 700R Stamford, Connecticut 06902 (203) 672-5952 ENGINEERING ARCHITECTURE DRONE SERVICES LITIGATION EXPERTS ENERGY CONSULTANTS CAPITAL RESERVE SPECIALISTS 34 CONNECT with CAI OiStockphoto.com Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest M&S PAVING AND SEALING INC. Our Services CONDOMINIUM PAVING • PAVEMENT RECLAIMING & MILLING • PAVEMENT SEALING & CRACK SEALING • FULL DEPTH PAVEMENT REPAIR (PATCHING) • CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION & REPAIR • EXCAVATION, DRAINAGE & STRIP DRAIN INSTALLATION CURBING INSTALLATION & REPAIR • CATCH BASIN & SIDEWALK REPAIRS service@mspave.com sales@mspave.com South Windsor: 860-436-4588 111 Commerce Way South Windsor CT 06074 COHEN Not Just a Law Firm. and WOLF Your Law Firm. General Association Representation Litigation and Arbitration Common Charge and Fine Collection Drafting and Amending of Association Documents Negotiation and Closing of Association Loans Contract Review MARK A. KIRSCH ROBIN A. KAHN • DANIEL S. NAGEL DAVID M. MOROSAN • Ari J. HOFFMAN DAVID DOBIN BRIDGEPORT DANBURY WESTPORT ORANGE 203-368-0211 203-792-2771 203-222-1034 203-298-4066 www.cohenandwolf.com H Condominium Association Insurance Specialists 20+ Commercial Insurance Markets, to include: Andover • GNY . Hanover The Hartford • Philadelphia • Providence Mutual QBE • Travelers USLI • Vermont Mutual • V3 HODGE INSURANCE T 800.201.3339 P 203.792.2323 F 203.743.0830 www.hodgeagency.com Liberty Mutual Nationwide NLC D&O + Crime coverage to include Property Managers Agents average 25+ years industry experience ❖ Dedicated roles for processing Certificates + Claims ❖ Multiple Deductible Options + Jumbo Limits available
+ Crime coverage to include Property Managers Agents average 25+ years industry experience ❖ Dedicated roles for processing Certificates + Claims ❖ Multiple Deductible Options + Jumbo Limits available ❖ Strong Relationships with High-Loss Markets 283 Main Street PO Box 307 • Danbury, CT 06810 ⚫ hodgeagency.com CONNECT with CAI 35 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter Classified Services ACCOUNTING Carney, Roy and Gerrol, P.C. 35 Cold Spring Road, Suite 111 Rocky Hill, CT 06067-3164 860-721-5786 • 800-215-5945 Contact: Joseph T. Rodgers, CPA E-Mail: joe@crandg.com CAI-CT MEMBER Tomasetti, Kulas & Company, P.C. 631 Farmington Avenue Hartford, CT 06105 860-231-9088 Fax 860-231-9410 Contact: Dan Levine, CPA E-mail: DLevine@TomKulCo.com CAI-CT MEMBER Mark D. Alliod & Associates, P.C. Certified Public Accountants 348 Hartford Turnpike, Suite 201 Vernon, CT 06066 860-648-9503 Fax 860-648-0575 Contact: Mark D. Alliod, CPA E-mail: mark@markalliodcpa.com CAI-CT MEMBER ASPHALT/ ASPHALT REPAIRS/ CONCRETE/PAVING M & S Paving and Sealing, Inc. Carrie DeMilio 111 Commerce Way South Windsor, CT 06074 860-436-4588 carrie@mspave.com CAI-CT MEMBER ATTORNEYS Cohen and Wolf, P.C. 1115 Broad Street Bridgeport, CT 06601 203-368-0211 Fax 203-394-9901 www.cohenandwolf.com CAI-CT MEMBER Feldman, Perlstein & Greene, LLC 10 Waterside Drive, Suite 303 Farmington CT 06032 8860-677-2177 or 860-677-0551 Contacts: Matthew N. Perlstein, Esq. Michael Feldman, Esq. CAI-CT MEMBER Pilicy & Ryan, P.C. 365 Main Street, PO Box 760 Watertown, CT 06795 860-274-0018 • Fax 860-274-0061 Contact: Franklin G. Pilicy E-mail: dmajor@pilicy.com CAI-CT MEMBER Sandler, Hansen & Alexander, LLC Contacts: Scott J. Sandler, Esq., CCAL Christopher E. Hansen, Esq. Michael S. Alexander, Esq.
-0061 Contact: Franklin G. Pilicy E-mail: dmajor@pilicy.com CAI-CT MEMBER Sandler, Hansen & Alexander, LLC Contacts: Scott J. Sandler, Esq., CCAL Christopher E. Hansen, Esq. Michael S. Alexander, Esq. 98 Washington Street, Third Floor Middletown, CT 06457 860-398-9090 • Fax: 860-316-2993 www.shacondo.legal CAI-CT MEMBER CARPENTRY Building Renewal, LLC Greg Zajac 45R Ozick Drive, Suite 19 Durham, CT 06422 860-372-4554 Email: gzajac@buildingrenewal.net buildingrenewal.net CAI-CT MEMBER Painting PAINTING New Look CONSTRUCTION Siding • Roofs •Decks • Windows SERVICING CONDOMINIUM AND HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS SINCE 1978 MAIN www.nlpcinc.com CAI-CT MEMBER OFFICE 860.633.1319 SHORELINE 203.974.9852 CAI-CT MEMBER OFFICE Let Our Experience Work for You! PRIMEtouch SERVICES . carpentry siding • painting 800.767.8910 www.primetouch.net COMMUNICATION ⚫ RESPONSIVENESS • SERVICE CAI-CT MEMBER Schernecker Property Services Eric Churchill 781-487-2501 • Fax: 866-899-0736 Email: eric.churchill@spsinconline.com www.spsinconline.com CAI-CT MEMBER DUCT/DRYER VENT CLEANING Duct & Vent Cleaning of America, Inc. Located Throughout New England Servicing the Northeast, Free Estimates Fully Insured, Certified by NADCA 1-800-442-8368 ENGINEERING/ RESERVE STUDIES CCA, LLC, Engineering Surveying Landscape Architecture 40 Old New Milford Road Brookfield, CT 203-775-6207 www.ccaengineering.com CAI-CT MEMBER The Falcon Group 1266 E. Main Street, Suite 700R Stamford, CT 06902 Phone: 203-672-5952 www.falconengineering.com CAI-CT MEMBER Reserve Advisors, Inc. Michelle Baldry, Northeast Regional Executive Director Danbury, CT 06811 Tel: (844) 701-9884 mbaldry@reserveadvisors.com www.reserveadvisors.com CAI-CT MEMBER Common Interest EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS AFFORD OUR FEES ROOFING IQ
Director Danbury, CT 06811 Tel: (844) 701-9884 mbaldry@reserveadvisors.com www.reserveadvisors.com CAI-CT MEMBER Common Interest EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS AFFORD OUR FEES ROOFING IQ community To Advertise... email: info@brainerdcommunications.com 36 CONNECT with CAI FINANCIAL SERVICES Association Lending Serving New England Howard Himmel 978-567-3630⚫h.himmel@avidiabank.com Avidia Bank avidiabank.com Member FDIC Member DF Equal Housing Lender CAI-CT MEMBER The Milford Bank Contact: Paul Portnoy, Vice President Vice President 203-783-5700 800 340-4862 www.milfordbank.com CAI-CT MEMBER Mutual of Omaha Bank, Community Association Banking Contact: Erin Kremser, CMCA, VP/Regional Account Executive P.O. Box 105, West Chatham MA 02669 860-459-4713 • Fax 603-636-8566 erin.kremser@mutualofomahabank.com www.mutualofomahabank.com CAI-CT MEMBER Simsbury Bank Contact: Lisa Allegro VP/SR. Relationship Manager/HOA Lending 86 Hopmeadow St Weatogue, CT, 06089 Phone: 860-651-2064 Cell 860-428-2100 Email: lallegro@simsburybank.com www.simsburybank.com/HOA CAI-CT MEMBER GENERAL CONTRACTORS THE CONDOMINIUM SPECIALISTS Southern NewEngland Home Works 203-627-6053 ⚫ROOFING • SIDING ⚫ GUTTERS • SNOW PLOWING www.snehomeworks.com CAI-CT MEMBER V. NANFITO ROOFING & SIDING Leaks • Repairs Windows • Doors Decks ⚫ Painting Gutters ● Maintenance Powerwashing 1-800-916-6107 www.vnanfito.com CAI-CT MEMBER Lic# 570192 INSURANCE Bouvier Insurance 860-232-4491 Contact: Richard Bouvier, CIC www.Binsurance.com CAI-CT MEMBER Condo Logic Contact: Lisa Caminiti 29 North Main Street West Hartford, CT 06107 860-232-4491 x-112 • Fax: 860-232-6637 Condo Logic.Net C.V. Mason & Company Insurance Contact: Bud O'Neil 860-583-4127 • Fax 860-314-2720 boneil@cvmco.com Hodge Insurance 282 Main Street
ord, CT 06107 860-232-4491 x-112 • Fax: 860-232-6637 Condo Logic.Net C.V. Mason & Company Insurance Contact: Bud O'Neil 860-583-4127 • Fax 860-314-2720 boneil@cvmco.com Hodge Insurance 282 Main Street Danbury, CT 06810 1-800-201-3339 • 203-792-2323 Fax: 203-791-2149 CAI-CT MEMBER The Reardon Agency, Inc. Mallory Reardon Porter 26 Clark Lane Waterford, CT 06385 (860) 442-1396 Fax: (860) 444-2822 mreardon@reardonagency.com www.reardonagency.com CAI-CT MEMBER Tooher Ferraris Insurance Group Contact: Peter P. Ferraris, Jr., President 43 Danbury Rd., Wilton, CT 06897 Tel: 203-834-5900 or 800-899-0093 Fax: 203-834-5910 E-Mail: pferraris@toofer.com CAI-CT MEMBER Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest LAKE & POND MANAGEMENT SOLitude Lake Management Tracy Fleming, Director of Marketing 590 Lake Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 508-885-0101 Fax: 508-865-1220 info@solitudelake.com www.solitudelakemanagement.com CAI-CT MEMBER LAUNDRY EQUIPMENT AUTOMATIC LAUNDRY "Superior Laundry Solutions" Serving The Northeast Since 1964 D Doug Lindland 800-422-5833 dougl@automaticlaundry.com www.automaticlaundry.com MAINTENANCE THE CONDOMINIUM SPECIALISTS Southern NewEngland Home Works 203-627-6053 ROOFING SIDING GUTTERS SNOW PLOWING • www.snehomeworks.com CAI-CT MEMBER V. NANFITO ROOFING & SIDING Leaks • Repairs Windows • Doors Decks • Painting Gutters • Maintenance Powerwashing 1-800-916-6107 www.vnanfito.com CAI-CT Member Lic# 570192 [Continues on page 38.] CONNECT with CAI 37 Community Associations Institute-Connecticut Chapter CLASSIFIED SERVICES...from page 37. MANAGEMENT COMPANIES Barkan Management Company, Inc. 121 W. Main Street Vernon-Rockville, CT 06066 Call: 860-633-6110 Contact: Laura Waldrop Email: Connecticut@barkanco.com CAI-CT MEMBER County Management Services, LLC
ES Barkan Management Company, Inc. 121 W. Main Street Vernon-Rockville, CT 06066 Call: 860-633-6110 Contact: Laura Waldrop Email: Connecticut@barkanco.com CAI-CT MEMBER County Management Services, LLC 6527 Main Street Trumbull, CT 06611 203-261-0334 • Fax: 203-261-0220 Contact: Gary M. Knauf garyknauf@gmail.com www.countymanagementservices.com CAI-CT MEMBER IMAGINEERS, LLC 635 Farmington Avenue Hartford, CT 06105 Phone 860-768-3330 • Fax 860-236-3951 249 West Street Seymour, CT 06483 Phone 203-463-3219 • Fax 203-463-3299 Contact: Karl Kuegler E-mail: kkuegler@imagineersllc.com www.imagineersllc.com CAI-CT MEMBER SOMAK Property Management 413 East Street, Suite 2 Plainville, CT 06062 860-259-1046 info@somakmanagement.com www.somakmanagement.com CAI-CT Member The Windsor Management Company Mallard Crossing Business Center 58 A Connecticut Avenue South Windsor, CT 06074 860-688-1738 • Fax 860-688-0261 Contact: Don McLaughlin E-mail: don@windsormgnt.com www.windsormgnt.com CAI-CT MEMBER PAINTING CertaPro Painters Contact: David Messier 112 Stockhouse, Rd. PO Box 300, Bozrah, CT 06334 860-886-2903 Fax 860-886-5900 CAI-CT MEMBER • Painting • Roofs Schernecker Property Services Eric Churchill 781-487-2501 •Fax: 866-899-0736 Email: eric.churchill@spsinconline.com www.spsinconline.com CAI-CT MEMBER ROOFING/SIDING/ GUTTERS/WINDOWS Adam Quenneville Roofing & Siding Adam Quenneville 160 Old Lyman Road South Hadley, MA 01075 855-552-6273 production.aqrs@gmail.com www.1800newroof.net CAI-CT MEMBER Exteriors of CT, LLC Exteriors of CT, LLC CONDOMINIUM CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS Siding ⚫ Roofing Windows Doors 860-657-2038 dl@ctexteriors.com www.exteriorsofct.com CAI-CT MEMBER LIC #632519 Magee Property Management 7 Cody Street West Hartford, CT 06110 860-953-2200 • Fax 860-953-2203
⚫ Roofing Windows Doors 860-657-2038 dl@ctexteriors.com www.exteriorsofct.com CAI-CT MEMBER LIC #632519 Magee Property Management 7 Cody Street West Hartford, CT 06110 860-953-2200 • Fax 860-953-2203 Contact: Amber Chamberland Email: manager@mageecompanies.com www.MageeCompanies.com CAI-CT MEMBER Sentry Management, Inc. Contact: N. Lynne McCarron, CMCA, Vice President 30 Connecticut Boulevard East Hartford, CT 06108 (860) 282-7733 Imccarron@sentrymgt.com hartford.sentrymgt.com PAINTING New Look CONSTRUCTION . Siding Decks • Windows SERVICING CONDOMINIUM AND HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS SINCE 1978 www.nlpcinc.com CAI-CT MEMBER MAIN OFFICE SHORELINE 860.633.1319 203.974.9852 OFFICE CAI-CT MEMBER Let Our Experience Work for You! PRIMEtouch SERVICES • carpentry siding • painting 800.767.8910 www.primetouch.net COMMUNICATION ⚫ RESPONSIVENESS • SERVICE CAI-CT MEMBER Leading Edge Exteriors, LLC Contact: Michael Muraca 730 East Street, Middletown, CT 06457 860-632-0050 • Fax 860-632-7762 Michael@leadingedgeexteriorsllc.com www.leadingedgeexteriorsllc.com CAI-CT MEMBER Magee Roofing, Windows, Gutters & Siding 7 Cody Street West Hartford, CT 06110 860-953-2200 • Fax 860-953-2203 www.MageeCompanies.com CAI-CT MEMBER Reficio Company, LLC Contact: Alex Gritzuk 70 Industrial Park Access Road Middlefield, CT 06455 (860) 961-6562 www.reficiocompany.com CAI-CT MEMBER 38 CONNECT with CAI Schernecker Property Services Eric Churchill 781-487-2501 Fax: 866-899-0736 Email: eric.churchill@spsinconline.com www.spsinconline.com CAI-CT MEMBER THE CONDOMINIUM SPECIALISTS SNOW PLOWING Magee Properties & Facilities Maintenance 7 Cody Street West Hartford, CT 06110 860-953-2200 • Fax 860-953-2203 www.MageeCompanies.com CAI-CT MEMBER THE CONDOMINIUM SPECIALISTS Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest
Facilities Maintenance 7 Cody Street West Hartford, CT 06110 860-953-2200 • Fax 860-953-2203 www.MageeCompanies.com CAI-CT MEMBER THE CONDOMINIUM SPECIALISTS Volume XIII: Issue 5, 2018 Common Interest "Just make it go away!" JP MAGUIRE Property Damage Clean Up & Reconstruction We Can. FIRE WATER WIND MOLD ASBESTOS BIOHAZARD Southern NewEngland Home Works 203-627-6053 • ROOFING SIDING • SNOW PLOWING CAI-CT MEMBER Southern NewEngland Home Works 203-627-6053 • ROOFING SIDING • • SNOW PLOWING CAI-CT MEMBER 1-877-JPMAGUIRE www.JPMaguire.com CAI-CT MEMBER United Cleaning & Restoration, LLC 203-464-4171 70 Industrial Park Access Road Middlefield, CT 06455 Contact: Licia Ciotti www.unitedcr.com CAI-CT MEMBER V. NANFITO ROOFING & SIDING Leaks • Repairs Windows • Doors Decks • Painting Gutters • Maintenance Powerwashing 1-800-916-6107 www.vnanfito.com WATER / FIRE DAMAGE Crystal Restoration Services of Connecticut, Inc. Contact: Jean Walker 3 Duke Place, South Norwalk, CT 06854 203-853-4179 • 203-853-6524 Fax E-mail: jwalker@crystal1.com www.crystalrestorationservices.com CAI-CT MEMBER community ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE Building the Best Communities in Connecticut Looking for a service provider? CAI-CT Member Lic# 570192 DISPLAY ADVERTISER DIRECTORY Check out our online service directory at: www.caict.org to find the professionals you need! Adam Quenneville Roofing & Siding. 32 M&S Paving.... .33 Sentry Management. 8 Bouvier Insurance 13 The Milford Bank .2 Simsbury Bank. 12 Building Renewal, LLC. .24 Mutual of Omaha Bank, SOLitude Lake Management... .29 Cohen & Wolf, PC 35 Community Association Banking. .19 Southern New England Home CondoLogic 21 New Look Painting & Construction .. .31 Works .Back Cover The Falcon Group...... 34 Reardon Agency. 23 V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding.. 9
Association Banking. .19 Southern New England Home CondoLogic 21 New Look Painting & Construction .. .31 Works .Back Cover The Falcon Group...... 34 Reardon Agency. 23 V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding.. 9 Reserve Advisors ..8 Zeldes, Needle & Cooper, P.C.. 23 Feldman, Perlstein & Greene, LLC.. 33 Hodge Insurance. 35 Leading Edge Exteriors. 32 Sandler, Hansen & Alexander, LLC.. 11 29 Schernecker Property Services (SPS) .. .19 CONNECT with CAI 39 Southern New England Home Works 203-627-6053 ROOFING SIDING, GUTTERS FOR ALL OF YOUR SHINGLE FLAT & METAL ROOFING NEEDS • • GAF Master Elite Certified Flat Roof Restorations Vinyl, Wood & Fiber Cement Siding . 5&6" Gutters • Windows ⚫ Doors • Snow Plowing Call Today For Your Free Estimate!!! (203) 668-2493 www.snehomeworks.com