The date & time for our annual meeting is scheduled for Saturday, September 6, 2025 @ 10 AM.

If the weather cooperates we will meet in the backyard of 2317.

Otherwise we will meet downstairs in 2317. See you there!

Some of the items to be discussed:

• Snow Removal
• Special Assessments
• What type of Rentals are allowed
• Year in review
• Security
• Future plans
• Treasurer’s Report and Budget
• Bylaws refresher

I hope to see you all there,

Barry

One of the costliest household wastes of water is a leaky toilet. According to the Works Association, toilets account for 45% of all indoor water use in a typical residence. It is estimated that 20% of all toilets leak. Fill Valve Toilet leaks can range from small to large, constant to random, and loud to silent.

Depending on the water pressure in your house and the size of the leak, a toilet can leak 1 gallon of water per minute which adds up to 1,440 gallons per day. The most common places inside the tank that can leak into the bowl include a worn-out flapper valve, malfunctioning fill valve and water going over the overflow tube.

Flush Valve Signs of a leak:

• If you have to jiggle the handle to make a toilet stop running.

• Any sounds coming from a toilet that is not in use are signs of leaks.

• If you have to hold the handle down to allow the tank to empty.  This can also mean the chain or strap is too long and doesn’t lift the flapper or ball    high enough to float on its own.

• If you see water running over the top of the overflow tube, you definitely have a leak.

• If you can see water trickling down the inside of the toilet bowl long after it’s been flushed

• If water drips out of the fill tube into the overflow pipe.

• If a toilet turns the water on for 15 seconds or so without you touching the handle, leaking refill valve. If you are unsure whether or not water is running over the top of the overflow tube; sprinkle talcum powder on the top of the water in the tank, this will allow you to clearly see if it is. This is otherwise known as the phantom flusher.

Checking for a leak in your toilet

Most toilet leaks are caused by a faulty flapper valve. A flapper valve should be replaced every 3 to 5 years. Most hardware, plumbing and home improvement stores sell flappers. Here’s a helpful video for running toilets and how to adjust the float.

Dear Condo Owners,

We hope this message finds you well. This notice is to inform those who use a bill-pay service for mailing their condo fees of an important change. Please update the mailing address from #14 to #13.

Additionally, we have encountered some issues with late payments, which have made it challenging for our board to manage expenses effectively. We encourage you to review our bylaws regarding late condo fees and the associated costs, specifically in Article V, Section 6.

If you have misplaced your copy of the bylaws, you can request a new one by contacting Barry.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your prompt cooperation.

Best regards,

Southbrook Terrace Board of Managers

What is a Condo Association?

A condo association, or condominium association, is a governing body that manages the common areas and enforces rules within a condominium complex. Condos are individually owned units within a larger property that may include shared spaces like lobbies, gyms, pools, and parking areas. Here are some key features of a condo association:

• Ownership and Responsibility: Condo owners have full ownership of their individual units and a shared interest in the common areas. The condo association is responsible for maintaining these common areas, which includes repairs, landscaping, and amenities.
• Fees and Assessments: Owners pay monthly or quarterly fees to the condo association. These fees cover the cost of maintenance, insurance, and sometimes utilities for the common areas. Special assessments may be levied for significant repairs or upgrades.
• Governance: Condo associations are typically governed by a board of directors elected by the unit owners. The board enforces the association’s bylaws, rules, and regulations to ensure the property is well-maintained and residents adhere to community standards.

How is a Homeowners Association Different?

An HOA, or homeowners association, is a similar entity but with some key differences. HOAs are common in planned communities of single-family homes, townhomes, and sometimes condos. Here are the main distinctions:

• Property Types: HOAs usually govern neighborhoods with single-family homes, whereas condo associations are specific to condominium complexes.
• Common Areas: In an HOA, common areas might include parks, clubhouses, and community pools, but the extent of shared property is generally less than in a condo association.
• Fees and Assessments: Similar to condo associations, HOAs charge fees for the upkeep of common areas and services. These fees can vary widely based on the amenities and services provided.
• Governance: HOAs also have a board of directors elected by the homeowners. This board enforces the rules and covenants set forth in the HOA’s governing documents.

Popularity of HOAs in the United States

HOAs have become increasingly popular in the United States. According to the Foundation for Community Association Research, there were more than 350,000 community associations in the U.S. as of 2020, with over 74 million residents. This number includes condo associations, HOAs, and cooperatives.

Reasons for Popularity:

1. Community Management: HOAs provide a structured system for managing and maintaining community standards, which can help preserve property values.
2. Amenities and Services: Many HOAs offer desirable amenities such as pools, fitness centers, and community events that enhance residents’ quality of life.
3. Aesthetic Standards: HOAs enforce rules that ensure homes and common areas are well-maintained, contributing to the overall appearance and appeal of the community.
4. Dispute Resolution: HOAs often provide mechanisms for resolving disputes between neighbors, which can foster a more harmonious living environment.

Final Thoughts

While both condo associations and HOAs serve to manage and maintain residential communities, they cater to different types of properties and have distinct responsibilities. Condo associations focus on the upkeep of condominium complexes and shared spaces, while HOAs oversee neighborhoods of single-family homes and their communal areas. The growing popularity of HOAs in the U.S. highlights the value that many homeowners place on organized community management and shared amenities.

By understanding these differences, residents can better appreciate the unique role their condo association plays in enhancing their living experience and maintaining the property’s value.

At Southbrook Condos, we are dedicated to creating a vibrant and connected community where residents can stay informed and engaged. Our website serves as the central hub for all things related to our community. Here, you will find the latest community news, updates on upcoming events, important policy changes, and even some fun activities to enhance your living experience.

Stay connected with your neighbors and make the most out of your time at Southbrook Condos. Whether you’re looking for information on community meetings, social gatherings, or just want to stay in the loop with what’s happening around you, our website has it all.

Explore our site to:

• Stay Informed: Get the latest updates on community news and important announcements.
• Stay Connected: Learn about upcoming events and social gatherings to meet your neighbors.
• Stay Updated: Keep track of policy updates and community guidelines.
• Have Fun: Discover fun activities and amenities available within the community.
• If you don’t have a copy of the Bylaws. You can text or email Barry and he will email you a copy with the password.

We invite all residents to actively participate and contribute to making Southbrook Condos a welcoming and enjoyable place to call home. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out to us through our contact page.

Welcome to Southbrook Condos, where community living is redefined!