Hirzel's Condo Chronicles

In this episode, we’re diving into the ever-important (and occasionally nerve-wracking) process of developer turnover in Illinois.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide general education and information. This podcast may n...

You’ve heard his name before, but now you’ll get to know the person behind the mission. In this episode, Managing Member and Visionary, Kevin Hirzel, talks about how he got into this unique area of law, his proudest wins, personal passions, and the big vision behind the firm’s explosive growth. Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for information...

Thinking about adding a fence, deck, or maybe even a rooftop garden to your unit? Not so fast! In this episode, we explore architectural control in Illinois community associations, including what homeowners can and can’t do without board approval.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to...

Can your neighbor really build that backyard tiki bar—or install a pergola, shed, or hot tub—without board approval? In this episode, we dive into the world of architectural control in Michigan community associations, breaking down what needs approval, what boards should include in modification agreements, and what happens when owners skip the rules. Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. Th...

In this episode, we explore how the Illinois Condominium Property Act assigns roof maintenance responsibility, how associations can prevent leaks through inspections and reserves, and the financial risks of ignoring critical repairs, including landing on Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac’s blacklist. Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational...

In this episode, we discuss common causes of leaks, explain key insurance concepts like primary vs. secondary coverage, and outline how poor documentation, deferred maintenance, or outdated governing documents can land a Board in hot water—or dripping moldy water. We also discuss the importance of a “duty to report” clause and how Michigan associations can stay ahead of repairs. Want to learn more...

Can Michigan homeowners associations still ban solar panels? What rights do homeowners have under the new Homeowners' Energy Policy Act (HB 5028)? In this episode, we break down the major changes this law brings to HOAs across the state.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provi...

Can Illinois community associations ban solar panels? What rights do homeowners have when it comes to energy-saving improvements? In this episode, we break down the Illinois Homeowners’ Energy Policy Statement Act and what it means for homeowners associations, condominium associations, and common interest communities.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is...

In this episode, we tackle collections in Michigan and why board members should care about collections and the real impact of delinquent assessments! Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide general education and information....

In this episode, we tackle collections in Illinois and why board members should care about collections and the real impact of delinquent assessments! Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide general education and information....

In this episode, we’re discussing the latest updates to The Corporate Transparency Act. Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide general education and information. This podcast may not reflect the most recent legal development...

In this episode, we’re tackling a topic that is absolutely vital for well-functioning communities—document amendments! Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide general education and information. This podcast may not reflect th...

In this episode, we’re taking a look at a topic that surfaces every election cycle: political signs.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide general education and information. This podcast may not reflect the most recent leg...

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most pivotal moments in the life of a community association: developer turnover.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide general education and information. This podcast may not r...

In this episode, we discuss short-term rentals. These days, they are super popular, especially with the rise of platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide general education and information. This...

In this episode, we discuss The Illinois Homeowners' Native Landscaping Act. This new law became effective on July 19, 2024 and regulates the ability of Illinois community associations to prohibit certain types of landscaping, specifically focusing on native species.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This...

In this episode, we discuss the Homeowners’ Energy Policy Act, also known as HB 5028. This Act introduces several new requirements for homeowners associations regarding solar panels and other energy-saving improvements. Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The pur...

In this episode, we discuss crucial strategies for managing bylaw enforcement and community regulations, from common issues like unauthorized changes to common elements, noise complaints, the challenges of enforcing commercial use restrictions, and short term rentals.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This pod...

In this episode, we dive into all things architectural control related from the architectural control committee to submission guidelines and even trends that can enhance the community.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide...

In this episode, we dive into all things collections! Learn about how delinquency can impact your community association and the importance of having an effective and written collections policy.   Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is...

On March 1, 2024, an Alabama federal court judge ruled that the CTA was unconstitutional, sending shockwaves throughout the country. While the Alabama court ruling is certainly a positive development, it muddies the waters for community associations that are attempting to navigate compliance with the new CTA requirements. Learn about what this rule means for community associations.  Want to learn...

In this episode, we discuss all things Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Learn about the new requirements for lending as well as some insider tips! Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide general education and information. This pod...

In this episode, we kick off our monthly series by shedding light on a crucial topic – the Corporate Transparency Act.  Want to learn more? Visit www.hirzellaw.com. The information on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. This podcast not intended to provide legal advice. The purpose of this podcast is to provide general education and information. This podcast may not reflect t...