Crime Free Programs · HOAs, townhomes & condos
Crime Free Condominiums
Adapting the model to communities with many owners.
Overview
About Crime Free Condominiums
The Crime Free Condominium Program is virtually identical to the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program — with some very key differences. In apartment communities you typically have one owner and one management team with authority over all units. In townhome and condominium communities you can have as many owners as dwelling units.
A Homeowners Association (HOA) is elected to oversee the common areas and units. The CC&Rs, along with separate rules and regulations, dictate how the property can be used and what happens when the rules are abused. The program applies only to rental units, and enforcement authority comes from the Crime Free Lease Addendum.
As with any Crime Free Program, never attempt to teach or manage it without completing a certified Train-the-Trainer workshop. This is especially true for condominiums.
The three phases
From first class to full certification.
Each phase is completed under the supervision of local law enforcement.
- 01
Board Training
8-hour workshop
A majority of the HOA board completes the 8-hour Crime Free Program workshop so they are fully aware of all provisions. New boards must send new members through training.
- 02
CPTED & Compliance
Board-led
The Board of Directors ensures every step of phases two and three is followed — including criminal background checks for tenants and proof that renters sign the Crime Free Lease Addendum.
- 03 Certified
Certification
Signs & certificates
The property receives special signs and certificates showing it is a condominium or townhouse community, so the public does not confuse it with a typical apartment community.
Ten points every board must understand
- 1Many associations call because they cannot meet the 50% participation requirement of Block Watch — and assume Crime Free will be easier. It isn’t.
- 2The board needs determination and authority: all Multi-Housing components must be enacted into the CC&Rs or community rules. An attorney should be consulted.
- 3The board must require criminal background checks on tenants from all owners who rent, mandate the Crime Free Lease Addendum, and require proof.
- 4A board representative stays in touch with the local police; the HOA notifies owners of all non-compliances so they can serve notices.
- 5If an owner refuses to serve a notice or evict for criminal activity, the board assesses a fine ($50–$500), and may lien or foreclose if unpaid.
- 6A majority of board members completes the 8-hour Crime Free workshop.
- 7The board ensures phases two and three are followed — or a block watch approach may be the better fit.
- 8Coordinators meet with the board and its attorney before investing significant time in a property.
- 9Certified properties receive special condominium/townhome signs and certificates.
- 10When a new board is seated, new members must be trained; a trained majority keeps the property within guidelines.
Ready to certify your property?
Contact your local Crime Free Coordinator, or train with the association to bring the program to your jurisdiction.