The Carolinas were treated to an unseasonably warm winter this year, which has made spring seem to come a little sooner. You may have noticed trees starting to bud and flowers pushing through the dirt. And though temperatures have dropped again, spring is still just around the corner. Mid-March is a great time to start thinking ahead and making plans to spruce up the HOA community for warmer weather and more time spent outdoors.
Check in with Landscapers: Find out what services they have planned for spring, when they’ll be starting more frequent maintenance, and if there is anything the HOA or homeowners can do to support their efforts. Perhaps this means asking homeowners to avoid common area grass for a few days following fertilization or aeration.
Provide Helpful Suggestions for Homeowners: Include a small section in the next newsletter with spring cleaning tips for homeowners. Discuss tips for lawn care such as when to fertilize grass, how long or short grass should be, what to do with branches or yard debris, and what types of plants do well in the area. If they’re cleaning indoors, list a few places where they can donate gently used items they no longer want. Provide friendly reminders about HOA rules regarding landscaping, flags, paint colors, exterior décor, and other relevant issues.
Do a Walk-Thru of the Neighborhood: Are there problems that have creeped up over the winter such as cracks in sidewalks, fallen branches, roofing issues, or broken equipment? Make note of what needs to be addressed and whose responsibility it is. If it is an issue that needs to be voted on by the board before repairs or changes can take place, make sure it is added to the next agenda.
Clean up Common Areas: Put plans in place regarding when the pool will be cleaned and opened for use. You need to build in time to skim the water, scrub down surfaces, and shock the system. Don’t forget to go over any playground equipment as well. Look for broken or missing pieces, any spider webs or insect nests that may have been built, and areas where more dirt, mulch, or other materials need to be replenished. Power washing is a quick and easy way to clean off dirt from the fall and winter too.
Schedule HVAC Services: It may not be too warm right now, but it will be later on. Have HVAC systems undergo spring servicing to ensure they’re functioning effectively and efficiently. Being proactive about maintenance can save on costs later on.
Think Ahead to Summer: Before you know it, school will be out and summer will be here. Start planning ahead for a neighborhood block party, barbeque, end-of-school party, or other fun event for the community.
With everyone’s help and support, you can keep your HOA looking great and running smoothly this spring. Kuester Management Group can help HOAs find reliable service providers, stay on top of scheduling and maintenance, enhance communication with homeowners, and much more.
