Choosing the Right Vendors: The Secret to a Thriving HOA
Vendor selection is one of the most important responsibilities of an HOA board. The companies you hire, whether for landscaping, repairs, or security, directly impact the appearance, safety, and long-term value of your community.
Quality matters!
High-quality vendors do more than complete tasks, they help maintain property values, reduce complaints, and ensure repairs are done right the first time.
What should you look for in a vendor?
Choose vendors who are:
- Licensed
- Insured, with both liability and workers' comp coverage
- Experienced, preferably with other HOAs
- Well-reviewed, with positive references, you can verify
Okay you like the vendor, now what?
A strong contract protects both the HOA and the vendor. Having an attorney review contracts before signing can prevent headaches later.
Pro tip: HOA focused attorneys are best for this purpose. HOA Simplified can connect you with the right professionals to handle the process.
It should include:
- A clear description of work
- Payment terms and deadlines
- Terms for cancellation or disputes
So now that you’ve reviewed the contract, continue to monitor the quality of the vendor’s work. When the contract ends, you can choose to renew it if you’d like it to be recurring.
Vendors determine how your community looks. Nobody strives for that dirty pool or uncut grass in the community center.
Homeowners appreciate a well kept community, and vendors are the key.
Key Definitions that might help:
Liability Insurance: Covers damage caused by the vendor.
Workers' Comp: Covers vendor employee injuries on the job.
Scope of Work: Detailed list of tasks the vendor will perform.
Bid: A vendor’s price quote for a job.
Termination Clause: Rules for ending a contract early.
Dispute Resolution: How contract disagreements will be handled.
References: Past clients who can vouch for the vendor’s work.
HOA Attorney: A lawyer who specializes in HOA-related legal matters.
