In a ruling reinforcing the need for consistency in architectural approvals, the Illinois Appellate Court recently sided with homeowners who challenged their association over alleged arbitrary and subjective building requirements. The case, Patel v. Prairie Lakes Homeowners Association of Illinois, Inc., 2023 IL App (2d) 230158-U, offers a cautionary tale for association boards attempting to enforce design restrictions beyond the…
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Community associations play an integral role in the community. However, community associations that attempt to enact “no children” policies likely run afoul of federal law. That was the case in Simovits v. Chanticleer Condominium Association, 933 F. Supp. 1394 (N.D. Ill. 1996), where the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois held that a “no children” occupancy rule…
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Illinois condominium associations can be placed in the difficult position of balancing equitable treatment of unit owners with fiscal responsibility following unexpected damage to the property. A recent decision by the Illinois Appellate Court provides critical guidance on an association’s authority to recoup insurance deductibles from a unit owner in circumstances where the damage originates from that owner’s unit. Gelinas…
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As property values rise and unit owners look for ways to customize their living space, combining adjacent condominium units has become increasingly popular in Illinois. Whether creating a more prominent primary residence or expanding investment potential, the Illinois Condominium Property Act provides a pathway for combining units. If you’re a unit owner considering this option or a board member evaluating…
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Illinois condominium boards often overlook minor procedural details—until a lawsuit forces costly reversals. A recent Illinois appellate court case underscores why compliance with governing documents is critical to avoid legal trouble. In Gunnison Commons, LLC v. Alvarez, 2024 IL App (1st) 232176 (2024), an Illinois appellate court reinforced the importance of following condominium declaration requirements when amending governing documents and…
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Assessments are a community association’s lifeblood, and community associations should ensure that they are timely receiving assessments from owners. Generally, community associations will levy late fees on owners who fail to timely pay their assessments. However, Hidden Grove Condo. Ass’n v. Crooks, 318 Ill. App. 3d 945, 744 N.E.2d 305 (3d Dist. 2001), is an Illinois appellate court case that…
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