The ultimate green playbook for condos and coops.

Abstract

When a condominium or cooperative decides to incorporate sustainability modifications into its buildings, it is usually the result of some basic fundamentals. Some of these include a desire to reduce operating expenses, including a reduction in energy and water use. Other factors could be to improve resident health and safety, increase value, or comply with a law that requires that the property become greener. Whatever the reasons, if the entity controlling the property is a cooperative or condominium, it generally has some typical and otherwise condo- or coop-specific protocols that need to be followed so that the buildings reach the sought-after sustainability goal. This article will show how a condominium or cooperative can achieve whatever the desired result with as little liability as possible. Although most of this article focuses on New York properties, they merely exemplify how many other cities and states are affecting the homeowner associations.