Community associations employ highly-qualified professional community managers, and we think residents should know what the manager has—and has not—been hired to do. The manager has two primary responsibilities: to carry out policies set by the board and to manage the association’s daily operations.
Infinity Management places an emphasis on selecting the best manager based on the needs of each community. Feel free to contact us about your community goals and the type of manager that you’d like overseeing your association. Below, we are offering a few clarifications about the role of a property manager.
What a Property Manager Does
Advisory
While the manager works closely with the board, he or she is an advisor—not a member of the board. The manager is happy to help all residents and be a conduit if necessary. We encourage residents to attend board meetings and listen to board deliberations and discussions. Every board meeting has an open forum where residents can address the board directly.
Meetings
The manager works under the direction of the board. However, he or she is available to all residents. Most questions and request can be answer by calling or emailing the manager. If you need to see the manager, call and arrange a meeting. For after hours emergencies, call the association emergency number or in case of a life threatening matter call 911.
Monitoring Contractor Performance
The manager is responsible for monitoring contractors’ performance, but not supervising them. Contractors are responsible for supervising their own personnel. If there is an issue with a contractor, notify the manager, who will forward your concerns to the vendor and/or the board. The board will decide how to proceed under the terms of the contract.
Inspections
The manager may inspect the community if included in the services. Common area issues in-between inspections should be reported to the manager. Your help is essential. If you know about a potential maintenance issue, report it to the manager.
Violations
The manager is trained to deal with conflict, but he or she will not get involved in quarrels you might be having with your neighbor. However, if association rules are being violated, the manager is the right person to contact.
Association Emergencies
Although the manager is a great resource to the association, he or she is not available 24 hours a day—except for association emergencies. Getting locked out of your home may be an emergency to you, but it isn’t an association emergency. An association emergency is generally defined as a threat to life or property.
What a Property Manager Doesn’t Do
Provide Technical Information
The manager has a broad range of expertise and education, but he or she is not a consultant. Neither is he or she an engineer, architect, attorney or accountant. The manager may offer opinions, but cannot offer technical advice in areas where he or she is not licensed or qualified. However, the manager is able to direct you to the correct personnel.
Set Policies
The manager does not set policy. If you disagree with an association policy or rule, send a letter or e-mail to the manager. The manager will present it to the board.
Information
The manager is always happy to answer questions. For routine inquiries, like the date of the next meeting, please read the newsletter or check the association website.
Keep in mind that every association is unique and management services are tailored to each communities needs. Contact Infinity Management for more information or to inquire about our wide range of services.