Summer season is upon us. Warm days and nights provide the perfect conditions for grilling outdoors on a deck, patio, or balcony. That makes this the ideal time to think about fire safety and to review Ohio’s laws on grilling and the use of open-flame cooking devices. The Ohio...
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You’re Fired – Terminating Contractors Versus Employees By: Nicholas J. Meinert, Esq.
Most community associations utilize independent contractors to service their property. A general example of an independent contractor is an association’s landscaper who uses its own machinery, works on other properties, and is paid in lump sums. However, some associations hire employees who only work for the association, are paid...
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Installing Automated External Defibrillators within your Community By Janice E. Scotton, Esq.
All associations, especially those with swimming pools or clubhouses, should consider installing automated external defibrillators, or AEDs. Recent studies show that quick use of AED units substantially increases the rate of survival of victims of heart attack. AEDs are now widely accepted in the airline, health, and fitness industries...
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Owners Pay Assessments – Not Maintenance Fees or Dues! By: Nick Meinert
The Ohio Condominium Act and Ohio Planned Community Act both require that associations “collect assessments for common expenses” from the owners. Annual assessments, monthly assessments, special assessments, and enforcements assessments are all legally referred to as assessments. Despite this statutory assessment authority, many associations still improperly refer to their...
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2019! OHIO COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS ARE CHANGING! By David W. Kaman, Esq.
The times are rapidly changing. In the past, many of us were skeptical of technology, against funding of reserves, and felt completely comfortable with the status quo. Today, a growing number of enlightened board members are aggressively addressing association issues and radically improving their communities. Declarations and Bylaws that...