What Should I Expect to Find in Our Condo Board\’s

A condo association’s Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, a.k.a. its CC&Rs, is a set of rules that govern the condo community. Because associations are like mini-governments, these rules are in place so that all condo owners know what’s acceptable in terms of behavior and responsibilities. It also makes them aware of any consequences that could occur if they fail to abide by the rules. 

If you want to live in a Chicago condo association, you have to agree to its CC&Rs. Each association’s document is legally binding and officially recorded with the state of Illinois.

What’s Included in the CC&Rs?

The specifics of each condo association’s CC&Rs will vary, but the same basic elements will appear in them all. Within the governing documents for an Illinois HOA, you can expect to find:

• Property-use restrictions
• Maintenance rules and obligations for the condo board and individual owners
• Rule enforcement and dispute resolution protocols
• Insurance obligations
• Assessment obligations
• Lender protection provisions

What is the Difference Between Bylaws and CC&Rs?

The main difference between an association’s bylaws and its CC&Rs is that the CC&Rs outline the specific rules of membership and the bylaws implement how those rules will be enforced. 

Condo board members must be very familiar with an association’s bylaws as they spell out how board members can be elected, the frequency of board meetings, as well as establish the rules of day-to-day governance, among other things. 

The responsibilities of being a condo association owner or board member can feel overwhelming, but there are places to turn for help. Our team at First Community Management is here to assist with any of your condo association management needs from assisting with board meetings to helping prepare and manage the budget. Contact us today to ask your questions about condo association management in Illinois and get help with your board management responsibilities.