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1. For smaller associations, it may make sense to do it yourself. Find a director, officer, committee member or homeowner with spare time and expertise in that particular maintenance area.
2. For larger associations, get at least three bids and let those competing for the job know that you are getting three bids. It doesn’t cost you anything to get a bid and the cost will be much less if they know they are competing against other contractors.
3. Some associations pay utilities for all homeowners. See if you can amend the CC&Rs to require everyone to pay for their own utilities. Some Condominiums have complained that their water bill is outrageous. It is no surprise that people use more water when they know they don’t have to pay for it. This option may not be a good one if you have to install individual water meters. That can be very expensive.
4. Try to negotiate with your current contractors for a lower rate.
5. Send out a newsletter to the community requesting volunteers who can help with maintenance. If you use volunteers in the community, make sure those volunteers are qualified or the association. Communities need to know that their volunteers may be considered agents and if their agents or their agent’s work (or lack thereof) results in someone getting hurt, the association could be liable. Talk with an attorney to see if this is the right option for you.
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