Most board–manager relationships run into a rough patch at some point. Knowing the common challenges can help a board address them early. These are general observations, not a judgment of any company.
1. Communication gaps
Agreeing on how and how often the board and manager will communicate, and who the main contacts are, can head off frustration.
2. Unclear contract scope
Disagreements often come from different assumptions about what’s included. Review the management agreement together and write down anything unclear.
3. Hard-to-read financial reports
Ask for reports in a format the board understands, and schedule time to walk through them.
4. Maintenance follow-through
A shared list of open projects, with status and next steps, helps everyone track work such as paving, painting or landscaping.
5. Uneven rule enforcement
Agree on a written process for rule violations that follows the governing documents, and apply it the same way for every owner.
6. Board turnover
New board members may not know past decisions. Good records and an orientation packet can help.
7. Owner questions going unanswered
Clarify which questions go to the manager and which go to the board.
8. Reserve planning
Unplanned large projects can strain a budget. See HOA reserve fund basics.
9. Fit
Sometimes a relationship simply isn’t the right fit. If your board decides to change, see how to switch HOA management companies, and our questions to ask before hiring an HOA manager.
Ironhorse Management has helped Montana associations since 1979. Learn more about our HOA management in Bozeman and across Montana, or request a proposal to see what a plan could look like for your community.
Please note: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal, financial or tax advice. Every association and situation is different. It’s wise to consult an attorney and/or CPA for legal or financial matters, and to review your governing documents and other appropriate resources before making decisions, rather than relying only on this article.