Page 8 - CooperatorNews NY April 2021

8 COOPERATORNEWS — APRIL 2021 COOPERATORNEWS.COM MANAGEMENT Last spring, amidst the panic and con- fusion of the burgeoning pandemic, con- dominium, co-op, and HOA communities “In those buildings where we have opened or were faced with the diffi cult task of decid- ing what to do about their shared amenities. ing a ‘one person, one family,’ policy. In New Gyms, pools, clubhouses, and other popular York, the Department of Health does a vir- amenities were closed as a hedge against in- fection by a little-known enemy—though canopy to confi rm your address. Th ey then community leaders and boards of directors render a decision of whether or not you can hoped at the time that the closures would be reopen based on a video tour. It takes some temporary. Th e thinking was that as more time. With respect to other amenities— was known about the virus and its transmis- sion, and then as the pandemic waned, a re- turn to normalcy would await us. Now, a full year into the worst public gated by board members with our counsel, health crisis in over a century, we seem to using reasonable common sense based on be faced with conditions not much diff erent how one can catch COVID-19. For example, from back then. While our knowledge about they instituted time limits and sign-ups to the virus is certainly greater, and mass vacci- nations are underway throughout the United States, we’re still facing a second summer of COVID-19—now with new factors of in- creased costs and liability, continued mis- understanding of the short-, medium-, and department recommendations—is the fear long-term realities of COVID-19, and per- haps most diffi cult of all to maneuver: poli- tics. At the heart of the matter is whether COVID-19 claims, stating that viral infec- boards and residents are comfortable with tions and whatever results from them are ex- reopening, and what the basis for their de- cision to do so or not is. “Most adoption of Insurers refusing to entertain any claims rules for reopening gyms are born out of potentially moves liability to associations, Department of Health and Governors’ of- fi ce recommendations and regulations,” says members—a risk many are loath to take on. Dan Wollman, CEO of Gumley Haft , a real estate management fi rm in New York City. are planning to open gyms, we are suggest- tual inspection, starting with your building for instance, we have one building with an open-air space on a garage roof with bench- es, trees, and walkways—rules were promul- use the space.” Liability Perhaps the greatest impediment to com- munities reopening their amenities—even in full compliance with CDC and other health of liability. Surveys of insurance providers and brokers have indicated that insurers have taken a position against most if not all cluded under existing coverage and policies. corporations, and even individual board Liability, Cost, & Reopening Amenities Th e Summer of COVID-19, Round 2 BY A. J. SIDRANSKY 212-683-6855 x7 info@dermerrealestate.com www.dermerrealestate.com Managing our clients for an average of 18 Years Why are our clients with us so long? One Reason - Financial Performance Operating Surplus Substantial Reserves     Balanced Budgets Common Area Upgrades   Limited Staff Turnover Much More  But don’t ask us, ask our clients. We will put you in touch with the Board Members we have served for the past 28 years. ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING SERVICES: - Structural - MEP - Interior Design BUILDING ENVELOPE / RESTORATION / FACADE INSPECTION SAFETY PROGRAMS CONSTRUCTION DEFECT TESTING / INVESTIGATION ENERGY CONSULTING FORENSIC TESTING / LITIGATION SUPPORT NYC SPECIAL INSPECTIONS 5 YEAR CAPITAL PLANNING 350 7th Avenue, Suite 2000 New York, NY 10001 (646) 292 - 3515 info@falconengineering.com www.falconengineering.com ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS AND ENERGY CONSULTANTS