Glossary of Terms
LESSONS FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Boards, Bylaws, and Better Governance
Glossary of Terms
These definitions are provided for general educational purposes only. They are not legal, financial, insurance, or other professional advice, they do not establish a standard of care, and they do not create any professional or client relationship. Terminology, legal effect, and requirements vary significantly by jurisdiction, governing documents, and individual circumstances.
Because this glossary serves as an educational baseline, it intentionally omits state-specific statutory caps, procedural thresholds, and local enforcement nuances.
Readers should treat these definitions as a starting point for board discussions—not as operational or legal blueprints—and should consult qualified legal counsel regarding their specific circumstances.
A Note on Using This Glossary in the Boardroom
Definitions on paper are intentionally streamlined, but community governance in practice is rarely simple. In the real world, the most challenging board disputes seldom come from an unclear definition—they stem from the practical nuances that underpin them. Whether navigating who pays for a Reasonable Modification under the Fair Housing Act, managing Limited Common Element maintenance, or adhering to statutory caps on Special Assessments, these definitions are high-level maps rather than local navigational blueprints. Use this glossary to build shared language among your board, but work directly with your association legal counsel to navigate the specific statutory land mines in your jurisdiction.
Boards should consult qualified legal counsel and other appropriate licensed professionals regarding their specific circumstances.