What should you include in your emergency plan?
Your HOA operates as a community, so it’s important that everyone is aware of how to respond in the case of an emergency. First and foremost, you should have a site plan as well as an evacuation plan in place, including a designated meeting place so everyone can support each other during and after a disaster. Standard procedures should be put in place, for example, instructions on how to respond should utilities run out or the HOA becomes littered with debris. Members of your HOA should know who to contact in case of an emergency, therefore, you should have a list of contacts available, including board members, other condo owners, insurance agents, your law firm and the HOA manager.
Updating your plan: Don’t forget to tell your residents!
Your HOA insurance policy and information on filing claims should be included inside the plan and you should keep copies in a safe place, in case they get destroyed in a fire or flood. Lastly, once your emergency pack has been created, it’s vital that you educate your community on all the points covered.
You must schedule a meeting to discuss the emergency plan with everyone and give them copies of the important information.
Don’t forget:
- Take photos of any renovations
- Keep a file of important paper work and contact details such as insurers, lawyers and HOA board members in an accessible location
- Share this with your community and make sure they have an updated copy if you have made amendments for social distancing measures
Find out more about preparing for an emergency during COVID-19 here. Social distancing is likely to be in play for some time, so it is worth updating your procedures to include how an emergency will be dealt with while observing social distancing requirements.
Get in touch!
If you’d like to find out more about Scott Litman Insurance Agency and the cover that we can offer, contact us today for a free obligation free quote e: customerservice@sliains.com
Stay safe everyone
