C O M M U N The Most Important Tool Available
H
omeowner association construction projects can be an overwhelming experience – the noise, the inconvenience, intrusions into the comfortable enjoyment of units and common areas. Many of these annoyances cannot be avoided and necessarily need to be endured through the course of the project. But what can the HOA’s board of directors, property management, and construction professionals – “the team” – do to minimize impacts on the community?
Communication and Setting Expectations
The clarity of information about the project and the regularity with which it is delivered to the membership can make a huge difference in the mood of the community. Adding surprise or confusion to the mix can aggravate nerves that may already be frayed simply from the project’s existence.
28
ISSUE THREE 2022 | ECHO journal
Pre-Construction
Communication should take place early and often in run-up to the beginning of construction activity. In the early stages, before finer details are set, the membership should be educated on the big picture – the nature and purpose of the project, the targeted start month, the estimated duration, the people and companies that will be involved and the roles they will play. A “town hall” meeting of the membership is an excellent means for doing this. The project architect and the general contractor can be invited to give a presentation outlining the steps of the project. They are the ones most qualified to explain the details and are also the ones most able to develop the membership’s confidence in the project and in the people performing the work. Helpful answers to questions are productive for both reducing people’s worries and building support.