Covering HOAs with One Hot Mike

Michael Berg
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Management
  • Updated Weekly

Our focus with Covering HOAs is to share stories, best practices, happenings within our industry, and to guide community managers to the print, internet, and events where they can learn tactics for improving the service they provide to their client communities.  This will help the board of directors improve the experience of living in the community.

  1. Jun 24

    How a California Bill Could Destroy Community Living (SB 1007): What You Need to Know

    Most community associations could crumble under new legislation—unless they understand the shocking truth about California’s Senate Bill 1007.In this eye-opening episode, Mike breaks down how a seemingly well-intentioned bill aimed at protecting homeowners could, in reality, threaten the very existence of HOAs in California. He reveals the hidden risks of capping assessments and how it could lead to underfunded communities, deferred maintenance, and a collapse of property values—without anyone noticing until it’s too late.You'll discover why the bill’s proposed restrictions on fee increases could cripple HOAs' ability to fund repairs, cover rising costs, and stay financially solvent. Michael shares insights into the real-world consequences of limited assessment flexibility, including how well-funded communities could become the minority—and what that means for your property and quality of life. Mike breaks down the impact of federal policies like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s new funding requirements, and how they intersect with local legislation to threaten homeowner financing options. If you're a homeowner, HOA board member, or community advocate—missing this knowledge could cost you your property value and community stability. But understanding the loopholes and pitfalls opens the door to protecting your investment and influencing meaningful reform.This episode isn’t just a critique; it’s a call to action. Whether you’re navigating HOA politics or just want to know why your assessments might soon be frozen—or worse—you need to hear this. Join us for a rare, unfiltered discussion on the intersection of legislation, community survival, and the power homeowners hold to shape their future.

    17 min

  2. May 21

    Why HOA Dues Are Going Up (And What Boards Must Do Now)

    This episode breaks down the new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac lending guideline changes impacting condo associations, reserve funding, insurance requirements, and HOA assessments. Why are HOA dues rising? Why are reserve studies becoming more important than ever? And why can’t communities keep avoiding assessment increases? This episode dives into the financial realities HOAs are now facing — and what boards and homeowners need to understand moving forward.

    30 min

  3. Apr 30

    Walls In vs Bare Walls: What Your HOA Insurance Actually Covers

    This episode breaks down “walls in” vs “bare walls” — something that sounds simple, but gets confusing fast.With insurance costs going up, more associations are changing how coverage works, and a lot of homeowners don’t realize how that affects them until something happens.We walk through what’s actually covered, what isn’t, and where things can get messy.Walls In vs Bare Walls: What Your HOA Insurance Actually Covers

    28 min

  4. Apr 16

    Beyond Basics: How Additional Insured Endorsements Fortify Your HOA

    Most community managers overlook the critical step of verifying contractors' insurance — and pay the price when liabilities go wrong. Discover how a simple yet often neglected insurance protocol can protect your HOA from costly lawsuits and unforeseen risks.We break down the ins and outs of insurance forms like the Accord Certificate, what to ask for during contractor vetting, and the importance of getting an actual endorsement— not just a paper. You’ll learn why broad liability coverage is crucial, especially when dealing with multi-story buildings or events on HOA property. Plus, tips on handling homeowner event insurance, protecting your community during private functions, and ensuring you're not left exposed.Why does this matter? Because even a small oversight can leave your association vulnerable — risking lawsuits, damages, or worse — without proper insurance protection. In an era of shrinking coverage options, knowing how to confidently verify and manage insurance risks isn’t just smart— it’s essential.Whether you’re a community manager, HOA board member, or vendor, this episode equips you with practical frameworks and insider tips to safeguard your community. Tune in to make your risk management rock-solid and avoid the costly pitfalls of inadequate coverage. Protect your HOA, your residents, and your peace of mind!

    27 min

  5. Apr 2

    HOA Board Members: This One Mistake Can Cost You Everything (D&O Insurance Explained)

    In this episode, we break down one of the most important protections for HOA board members: Directors & Officers (D&O) insurance.If you're serving on an HOA board, you're not just a volunteer—you’re making decisions for a multimillion-dollar organization. And when something goes wrong, those decisions can lead to lawsuits.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:What D&O insurance actually covers (and what it doesn’t)Why following the business judgment rule is criticalHow to avoid personal liability as a board memberThe biggest mistakes boards make when handling claimsWhy timing matters: “claims made and reported” explainedKey exclusions every board should understandWe also dive into real-world scenarios, including:What happens if you act outside your role as a board memberHow insurance companies handle claims and defenseWhy reporting issues early can make or break your coverageBottom line: Make decisions in good faith, rely on expert advice, and report claims as soon as possible.

    33 min

  6. Feb 12

    Risk Management Starts Here: The 5 Core Insurance Policies for HOAs

    In this episode of Covering HOAs - Mike breaks down the five core insurance policies every HOA and community association should understand — and why risk management is more than just buying coverage.From property and general liability to D&O, fidelity bonds, umbrella policies, and workers’ compensation, Mike explains how each policy works, when coverage applies, and the subtle distinctions that often create confusion for boards and managers.You’ll learn:✔️ Why insurance is really about transferring risk — not eliminating it✔️ The difference between occurrence-based and claims-made policies✔️ What deductibles actually mean (and what they don’t)✔️ Hidden exposures many associations overlook✔️ How understanding coverage can help you make better business decisionsWhether you’re a board member, manager, or industry professional, this episode simplifies complex concepts so you can feel more confident navigating HOA insurance decisions.

    31 min

  7. Jan 28

    Putting Your Insurance Carrier on Notice vs Filing a Claim (HOA Insurance Breakdown

    What’s the difference between putting your insurance carrier on notice and actually filing a claim — and why does it matter so much for HOAs?In this episode of Covering HOAs with One Hot Mike , Mike breaks down how insurance claims really work for community associations, and why timing, communication, and strategy can directly impact coverage, premiums, and long-term insurability.We dive into:* The critical difference between notice-only vs formal claim tenders* How claims-made policies work (and how coverage can be lost if timing is wrong)* Why loss history affects premiums, deductibles, self-insured retentions, and renewal options* When filing a claim makes sense — and when it may not* How working with trusted professionals helps boards transfer risk and protect themselves* Why talking to your insurance broker more often can save time, money, and headachesThis episode is essential listening for HOA board members, community managers, and anyone involved in risk management for associations.🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, and share if this episode was helpful.

    26 min

  8. 12/22/2025

    It’s Not Just the Premium: How Insurers Decide If Your HOA Is Worth the Risk — and at What Cost

    In this episode of Covering HOAs with One Hot Mike... Mike breaks down what actually goes into determining HOA insurance premiums.We explore how insurance companies evaluate risk, including the role of reserve studies, financial stability, property maintenance, and high-risk amenities. Mike also explains why proactive risk mitigation has become essential in today’s hard insurance market, what community managers and boards can do to improve insurability, and how underwriting standards are evolving.The conversation wraps with a look at emerging insurance trends and a reminder of the importance of community, support, and connection — especially during the holiday season.Whether you’re a board member, community manager, or HOA professional, this episode offers practical insight into how insurers view your community and what truly impacts your insurance premium.

    38 min
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Our focus with Covering HOAs is to share stories, best practices, happenings within our industry, and to guide community managers to the print, internet, and events where they can learn tactics for improving the service they provide to their client communities.  This will help the board of directors improve the experience of living in the community.

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