Connected Management Blog

Living in close quarters with hundreds of other people, some of whom may be your friends, can give you a false sense of security. The reality is that condominiums are often targets for criminals for a number of reasons, including perceived affluence and the fact that businesses and offices often employ technologically sophisticated security systems, decreasing their viability as potential targets. Many buildings have doormen or private security that act as a barrier between visitors and your private living space. But this added level of security often comes with higher monthly dues or an overall higher cost of living, a luxury...

  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...

What can be stored in the common hallways, stairways and other means of egress? According to the law, nothing. Interior landings, hallways and stairs must be completely clear of all items. This includes shoes, shoe racks, planters, pots or other items. The relevant section of the Chicago Municipal Code below relates to new construction: 13-160-070 Obstructions prohibited.For purposes of this section and Section 13-96-135 only: the term “small building” shall mean a residential building that is both less than four stories high and contains fewer than four residential units; and the term “large building” shall mean a residential building that is...

As a management company we are often confronted with issues or disputes between the condo association that we manage and its neighbors. One such example relates to the landscaping of neighboring properties. Specifically, the trees on these properties. If a neighboring property has one or more trees with branches that have grown such that they extend over the property line of your association, you do have the ability to take action. "Air rights" exist such that the legal property lines for your association extend vertically into the air. Due to this, you have the ability to cut back any branches that...

Building Safety Requirements This article contains information about various building safety requirements and Chicago municipal codes. These are common building items and issues that board members should be aware of to remain in full compliance with all city requirements. In practice it is unlikely that your association would be penalized by the city for failing to adhere to some of these requirements. Nonetheless these items are important to maintaining a safe building for your owners and other occupants. You can access the complete Chicago Municipal Code online: http://www.amlegal.com/library/il/chicago.shtml I encourage you to review these items and check to see how your...