Insights from local experts and executives The Region this issue: [40] Maine [44] Massachusetts [46] New Hampshire [48] Rhode Island In the Best Interests The Business Judgment Rule Helps to Protect Boards [by Dean T. Lennon, Esq.] MAINE Up in Smoke Chimneys Can Pose Hazards [by Jack Carr, P.E., RS, LEED-AP] If you asked the typical condo unit owner what's the most dangerous appliance or element in their unit, not many would think of the heating unit and its venting system. This venting system includes the chimney in its many forms and associated fireplaces or wood stoves either sharing multiple-flue chimneys or direct venting. This heating system is dangerous not only from the obvious fire hazards but also the potential exhaust leaks that allow carbon monoxide gas into the unit. Yet, even with these potential dangers, when was 40 CONDOMEDIA the last time the issue of maintaining this potential hazardous unit element was brought up at a board or general meeting? Fortunately, many Maine condos are built today with clean-burning fuels, such as natural gas. But Maine has a reputation of having more wood-burning heating units than anywhere in the country. Even the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other concerned agencies have been warning Maine homeowners of the dangers of air pollution and the lack of fire protection.