Selecting the right community manager can make all the difference in the success of an association. A great manager not only handles day-to-day operations but also fosters communication, organization, and trust within the community. At Mulcahy Law Firm, P.C. we’ve outlined what makes an A+ community manager—and how boards can identify and support these professionals. Communication is Key An exceptional [...]
Clear, consistent recordkeeping is one of the most important responsibilities of an HOA or condominium association board. Arizona law sets specific retention requirements for different types of records, and following those timelines helps ensure compliance and smooth operations even as leadership changes. Records to Keep Permanently Some documents form the association’s foundation and should never be discarded. These include: Articles [...]
governing documents give boards several tools to enforce compliance—ranging from courtesy letters to fines and litigation. One enforcement option that’s often overlooked but can be very effective is known as “self-help.” What is Self-Help? “Self-help” allows an association to enter a property and correct a violation at the owner’s expense, but only if this authority is expressly provided in the [...]
As 2025 wraps up, it’s time for many Arizona HOAs and condominium associations to begin preparing their budgets for the upcoming year. A well-planned budget is one of the board’s most important responsibilities. It ensures financial stability, supports necessary maintenance and reserves, and helps avoid unpleasant surprises. The budgeting process should begin with a careful review of last year’s actual [...]
Permanent lighting—also known as “permanent holiday lighting” or “trim lighting”—is quickly becoming one of the hottest home improvement trends of 2025. These systems use low-profile LED light strips installed along rooflines or eaves that can be controlled via mobile app to change colors or brightness year-round. Homeowners love the flexibility and curb appeal of permanent lighting. The technology allows residents [...]
Homeowner and condominium associations are responsible for managing significant community funds, and protecting those funds should always be a top priority. Even though bank failures are relatively rare, they can occur, and associations should take proactive steps to minimize financial risk and ensure their deposits are fully protected. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) provides deposit insurance coverage for checking, [...]
Let’s be honest—no one wants to think about fraud or embezzlement happening in their community association. But as we’ve seen all too often, theft can and does happen, even in the most well-meaning communities. At Mulcahy Law Firm, P.C., we want your association to stay safe, informed, and in control. That’s why we’re sharing some simple but essential steps boards [...]
Are you familiar with and understand the unique role of the legal documents pertaining to your HOA or condo? An association’s governing documents define the framework, rules, and standards for your association and all its members. But what exactly are these documents, and how do they relate to one another? Let’s break down the key documents that regulate community associations [...]
For anyone who has spent time in the Arizona Valley during the summer, 100+ degree temperatures are the norm. While we tend to spend most of our time indoors during this time of year, our landscaping does not have that option. In most cases, once a plant or tree shows visible signs of decline due to the heat, it is [...]
The new AZ statutes regarding summertime construction hours, i.e., ARS Sections 9-500.52 (Municipalities) and A.R.S. 11-269.30 (Counties), prohibit municipalities and counties from restricting properly permitted construction activities during the specified hours (5am-7pm business days, 7am-7pm Sat, 1 hr earlier for concrete pouring) and specified months (May 1 - October 15). Therefore, HOAs can be more restrictive with hour limitations on construction [...]
