Congratulations! You have just welcomed a new member to your co-op or condo board. Hopefully their skills, ideas, and experiences can add a fresh perspective to meetings and contribute to the board in exciting new ways. As many co-op and condo residents know, serving on the board can be a big time commitment and feel like a thankless part-time job. That’s why it’s important to make new board members feel welcome and informed. If your co-op or condo board has just filled a seat, or if you have volunteered, here’s how to get everyone up-to-speed:

1. Will you be my neighbor? Perhaps a new shareholder was recruited to the board a few months after they moved in, or a long-time resident has joined but was never active in the community previously. The best way to start a working relationship is just that- a relationship. Welcome them to the board with a warm introduction and some ice-breakers to get to know everyone.

2. Proprietary lease and bylaws: If they don’t already, make sure your new co-op or condo board member has a copy of the building’s bylaws and, if applicable, the proprietary lease. Most people are unfamiliar with the structure of such documents, but they are essential to everything that the board does. That’s why it’s so important that everyone on the board understands them. Be available to answer questions and explain details - the time spent is worth it to have an informed board for future decisions.

3. Existing expenses and vendors: Some people join their co-op or condo’s board to gain an understanding of what expenses go into their monthly maintenance fees. The best approach is a sit-down meeting to review a list of existing expenses and assessments, as well as how the building calculates them into maintenance fees. It’s also helpful to introduce them to the vendors and services the board uses.

4. What’s their expertise? From performers to chefs to financial analysts, there is no shortage of talented people in New York. Get to know your new board member and their unique skills, remembering that their expertise probably extends past their professional occupation. Ask what about the board interests them and where they’d like to contribute their ideas.

5. Building oversight skills: Running a building is no easy task, which is why many co-op and condo boards in New York turn to The Folson Group for their knowledge and experience in building oversight. From NYC apartment elevator laws to Local Law 11 scaffolding, board members both new and seasoned appreciate the extra guidance and care that an expert consultant brings.

Email us at info@thefolsongroup.com or call us at (917) 648-8154 to see how we can help your co-op or condo board today.