The Community Association of Western New York recently published "Lien on Me," by Corey Auerbach and Frank Heller, both partners, in its publication Community Association Connection.
Ownership of property within a community association affords a unit owner the right to enjoy the easements and services provided by the association; in return, the owner is obligated, typically by the association's governing documents, to contribute his or her fair share for the maintenance of those services by paying an annual or a monthly assessment to the association. When a unit owner fails to pay such assessments, the cost of the services is unfairly borne by the other homeowners in the association. [If an amicable, prompt resolution to nonpayment isn't possible], it is advisable to protect the association's interest by filing a notice of lien in the county clerk's office as soon as practicable.
Read the full article here.