HOA Protocols During the COVID-19 Crisis

The COVID-19 crisis is changing everyday life across America. Previously, we discussed how you, as an HOA board member, can help your members get through the COVID-19 crisis. However, you need to take care of yourself and protect your board, too. Here’s what you need to know so you can take the proper precautions.

Close Facilities

If your board controls access to facilities like a common area, a gym, a pool, or other areas, it’s time to close those down or drastically limit access to them. Just as most commercial meeting spaces, gyms, and pools are closed, you can close the ones in your community. In fact, you should do this because there’s a chance you could be held liable for any illness spread via those areas if you don’t.

If you get pushback, remind people of government rules during this crisis. Remind them, too, that you are doing this for their protection and for the protection of the most vulnerable people in your community.

Postpone Events

Since most states are limiting gathering size, it’s best to postpone any events that you have planned for your board or your community. You can set new dates for them or simply let your members know that you will notify them when the event has been rescheduled. Remind people that they are only supposed to be gathering with their immediate family members during this time.

Install Hand Sanitizer Stations

If you do need to keep public spaces or access open, even on a limited basis, make sure that people have access to hand sanitizer as soon as they enter the space. The best way to do this is to install stations that automatically dispense the sanitizer, but you can also use large bottles with press-down dispensing if you need to.

Limit Personal Contact

Postpone board meetings or choose to have them via teleconferencing software, like Zoom. Make sure that members also know how to access the meeting and that everyone is comfortable with the software before the meeting date. This allows you to continue to conduct business as usual without endangering anyone’s health.

Follow Local Guidelines and Rules

Different cities may issue different guidelines, laws, and rules during this time. Make sure you are in touch with city officials and that you check on these guidelines before you plan anything, open or close anything, and more! After all, you’ll want to be in compliance with all of the laws that pertain to you, even those on the local government level.

The COVID-19 crisis is proving challenging for everyone across all walks of life. No matter who you are or what you do, your life is likely changing right now. Follow these guidelines for your HOA board to limit your liability and protect your community from this virus. If you need help making the best decisions for your board and your membership, contact us at AMI. We will do everything we can to help you get through this difficult time.