We are often asked whether a condominium association may prohibit cigarette smoking in common areas, or in units or single family homes. Now that using marijuana is legal in Oregon and Washington, some associations are wondering if they can or should specifically ban marijuana usage too. There are several things to consider. Here are a few of the highlights to begin the discussion. read more

The Washington Chapter of the Community Associations Institute (WSCAI) is hosting its annual Community Associations Day, or "CA Day" for short, on Saturday, September 26. read more

In almost every walk of life, knowledge is something people seek to obtain. Francis Bacon famously, and succinctly, coined the phrase "knowledge is power." But in the topsy-turvy world of insurance, another famously succinct phrase may be more applicable, "ignorance is bliss." (Thomas Gray). read more

Most every community association possesses discretion to grant a permit, license or variance for specified conduct of its members. For example, a homeowner association that has a 30-foot height limitation for structures on lots conceivably could grant a variance to an owner who wanted to build a 21 foot home due to extraordinary topography conditions. Or perhaps a condominium association could grant a permit for a disabled owner to use an elevator ordinarily restricted to commercial use. There is a limitless set of examples where permits, licenses or variances may be acceptable in the community association context. read more

Electronic Privacy and Community Associations read more