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Starting in 2017 all condo associations in Chicago must have recycling services at their building. Failing to have recycling services active by 1/1/17 will expose the association to potential fines from the City. This new requirement is part of the Chicago Recycling Ordinance that was recently passed by the Chicago City Council. The ordinance goes into effect on January 1, 2017, and requires all commercial and multi-unit residential buildings to provide "source-separated, single stream recycling for residents." This simply means that all associations must purchase standard recycling services from a waste management provider. Obviously this is great news for the waste...

  For some, the winter season means holidays, cozy nights by a warm fire and peaceful walks through gently falling snow. But it can also mean blizzards, bone-chilling temperatures and ice build-up that can wreak havoc on a building’s integrity. It’s an inevitable fact of living in the Upper Midwest: winter is coming. The maintenance duties of condo owners often vary across associations, but depending on your agreement, you may be responsible for many of these tasks.  Here are some tips to ensure your home survives the season: Before the worst of the cold weather comes through the area, make sure...

It's almost as if a new housing development is being built in Chicago every day.  Demand for rental housing in Chicago is the highest it has been in years, with DePaul's Institute of Housing Studies (IHS) reporting that rentals make up nearly 44 percent of all Cook County households, up from 38 percent in 2005.  Although renters of all ages and income levels have increased, the youth represent the largest renting demographic, as thousands of young professionals flock to the city's hippest areas. Many of these young people are exceptionally affluent. DePaul's IHS reports that the these professionals have incomes nearly...

This article provides a brief overview of Chicago’s energy benchmarking program and links to resources where further details can be obtained. Instructions are also provided for board members of condo associations that are required to participate in the program. The practical requirement for most boards is to hire an energy-certified company to complete the benchmarking work on behalf of the association. While it is possible for a board to perform some of the required energy benchmarking steps directly, most will find it far easier to hire a firm to handle the entire process on their behalf. Ordinance Overview Information about the...

In today's property market, sustainability sells, and in Chicago, both buyers and tenants are looking for something more than just comfortable. They want efficient, environmentally responsible buildings that not only reduce cost but also carbon footprint. Knowing this, smart homeowners have started investing in green properties in Chicago, which not only helps them increase their long-term value but also attracts quality residents and lowers operating expenses. Why Green Upgrades Increase Property Value One key thing to note is that energy-efficient buildings are more than just fads; they are a profitable investment. With the help of sustainability features, you can lower your...