Condo Media - November 2011 - 51

Storm Documentation Packages
In today’s world of GPS, meaningful weather forecasting, instant communications, iPads, Blackberries, intruck computers, etc., any professional contractor should be able to deliver a full package of documentation about the storm and the actions taken during the storm. Include a few photos. The association should work hard to define that package and make it clear that the association expects to receive that package after each storm from the contractor. Unfortunately, what you may find is that this year’s low-cost provider may not have the wherewith-all to create such a documentation package. I suggest that this is one of the non-negotiable items the association needs to establish prior to the start of the season. I have a professional friend who acts as an expert witness at trials involving

snow contractors. During discovery, he asks that the contractor produce a documentation package about the storm in question. He doesn’t want the contractor to answer a questionnaire; he wants the contractor to deliver the records in his own format showing

indicator of whether or not the job they did was completed in a satisfactory manner. In summary, the association needs to provide specific and detailed requirements for the job expected and the association needs to request specific

Associations should develop a list of non-negotiable items that the snow contractor must accomplish to have a safe site.
when, where and what was done. Then my friend asks for that same package for the storm immediately preceding and following the storm in question. Contractors who do not keep good records (i.e., they created the documentation package to satisfy the discovery request) can rarely produce consistent and meaningful documentation for trial and that is a good and detailed reports from the contractor about how the job was accomplished. This is a good business practice that should be followed regardless of the price of the contract. CM Richard Churchill is president of The GroundsKeeper Inc. A past CAI-NE board member, he is currently a member of the Condo Media board.

What can we help you do for
Serving on a condominium association board is not necessarily a full time job. So, it’s nice to know that you can turn to First Niagara for the expertise and experience you need to find financing options for your project. We offer: Years of experience working with management companies and association boards. Flexible programs to meet virtually any need. Call Donna L. McCombe, First Vice President/Team Leader at 860-647-6181 or email her at donna.mccombe@fnfg.com for more information.

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CONDO MEDIA • NOVEMBER 2011

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Condo Media - November 2011

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Condo Media - November 2011
