Blog

Budget season is upon us. This budget season will be one like never before. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has created unforeseen expenses and budget shortfalls for some and fewer expenses and budget surpluses for others. So, when trying to forecast an accurate budget for the association for the next year many managers and boards mayRead more

On July 2, 2020, Governor Abbott issued statewide order GA-29, setting forth new measures for reducing the spread of COVID-19 (the “Order”). The Order requires all individuals to wear a face covering over their nose and mouth in the following locations, when it is not feasible to maintain 6’ of distance from others who areRead more

By Leah K. Burton and Paul Gaines The uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the economy, and the worry many are feeling about having lost their job or potentially losing their job is causing emotional strain across our communities. Many are seeking an outlet for that emotional strain and are turning to a variety ofRead more

Dealing with the new norm related to COVID-19, the world is truly a bizarre place.  Masks are no longer worn solely on Halloween.  Hand sanitizer and Lysol wipes may soon replace cash as the national currency, while social distancing no longer means a self-imposed hiatus from Facebook.  Yes friends, these are truly trying times thatRead more

This coming August marks 3 years since Hurricane Harvey devastated Texas. Damage from Hurricane Harvey is estimated at $128.8 billion dollars, and over 30,000 people were displaced, and 200,000 homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed1. For the Houston area in particular, in the past five years we have seen numerous devastating storms in additionRead more

Are POAs “commercial entities providing goods and services to the public”? In a number of counties, the answer is yes. Beginning on June 17, 2020, several counties and cities adopted new emergency orders requiring “commercial entities providing goods or services to the public” to adopt a Health and Safety Plan. While the exact language variesRead more

Monday, May 18th, Governor Abbott announced Phase 2 of his plan to open Texas. This announcement included new guidelines for office-based employers, which takes immediate effect. The most notable changes are: Employers can open the office to the greater of 10 people or 25% of the total office workforce (previously the greater of 5 peopleRead more

COVID-19 and the resulting “stay home” orders has had an enormous impact on the day-to-day operations of condominium associations. While most residents seem to understand why the gym and pool are closed and why management is working remotely, many may question why they are not being allowed to complete in-unit renovations and construction. After all,Read more