Connected Management Blog

Have you ever felt uncomfortable when your condo board revealed there was a “special assessment” for a surprise repair? You're not the only one feeling this way. Surprise expenses from rooftop leaks, elevator malfunctions, and burst pipes can seriously interfere with your community's finances. The fact is, many of these emergencies are preventable. The real issue is the distinction between preventative maintenance and reactive maintenance. By understanding what costs you could incur and budgeting accordingly, boards throughout Illinois would be able to save money for the owners and run a building smoothly without the late-night repair bills. What Preventive vs Reactive...

Every condo board has experienced a knock on the door, or an angry email about a neighbor’s barking dog, music late at night, or a “stolen” parking space. What begins as a minor nuisance can quickly snowball into a conflict that uses up the board’s time and patience. In a city like Chicago, where residents live close together, conflict is likely inevitable. Here is the good news: when plans are in place, boards can turn conflict into an opportunity for fairness, trust, and stronger connections with their communities. Common Sources of Resident Disputes Disagreements can generally happen when you share your...

Being a landlord in Chicago entails more than just receiving rental payments from your tenant. Chicago's Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) governs both the legal obligations of landlords and protects tenants. Comprehending the RLTO will not only keep you compliant as a landlord, but also save you from unnecessary costly disputes and help you become a successful landlord. What is the RLTO, and Who Must Comply? The RLTO applies to most rental properties in Chicago, including residential landlords and property managers. However, there are a few exemptions, which include smaller owner-occupied buildings and limited non-residential units. Nonetheless, recent amendments to...

The unexpected weather in Chicago requires ongoing demands on property managers all year round. From winter ice to summer storms, each season brings uncertainty and risks that can impact safety, comfort, and property value. A seasonal maintenance plan that is carefully structured will guarantee your buildings are in compliance, help to avoid costly emergencies, and help assure that tenants enjoy safe and operational living and working spaces. The Importance of Seasonal Maintenance Periodic maintenance is more than just fixing visible problems; it's about preventing them from ever appearing. The extreme weather of Chicago tests building systems, and being proactive can help...

Budget constraints are an ever-present reality for Condo boards, and unexpected breakdowns and emergency repairs can emerge as the ultimate recipe for disaster in a lingering financial crisis. That’s why condo associations that stay ahead of issues rather than simply react are at an advantage compared to those that don’t. Preventive maintenance for condos relies on creating structured plans and schedules that can substantially contribute to the life of critical assets, lower expenditures, and eventually lead to smoother operations for the entire community. This not only spares them from last-minute hassles but helps them build an image of a financially responsible...