Published in Construction Defect Journal
In an article published on November 21 in the Construction Defect Journal, VF Law attorney Andre Egle explores the impact of Washington state’s extreme winter storms on HOAs as the La Niña Pacific Ocean current conditions persist. He outlines critical proactive steps associations can take to protect their communities, from inspecting vulnerable building systems to ensuring proper contractor accountability and insurance coverage.
“Knowing that the chances for heavier-than-usual rains are in the forecast, a local HOA should inspect roofs, gutters, building envelopes, and drainage systems to identify vulnerabilities to water intrusion inside the buildings or ice buildup on the outside,” Egle advised. “Trees, landscaping features, walkways, and retaining walls need to be checked for dangers like dead limbs, tripping hazards, or any signs of shifting structure.”
HOAs frequently overlook critical insurance pitfalls that can leave them financially exposed during winter emergencies, including outdated or generic replacement-cost estimates, gaps in water damage coverage, and failing to update policies after renovations. Equally important is vetting contractors thoroughly by asking five core questions about licensing, project management, quality-control procedures, detailed price estimates, and warranty provisions to ensure accountability and good workmanship.
“First, before a storm, send a simple, fact-based, expectation-setting message outlining what the HOA will do (snow removal plans, inspections, vendor readiness) and what residents should be prepared to do,” Egle recommends. “Second, set realistic expectations about response times because trust is built when residents understand what the HOA can and cannot do.”
Read the story in full, click here.