Co-op Living
Policies & Member Information
As mutual owners, member residents participate at various levels in the decision-making process. This is not true of ordinary tenants who usually do not have the opportunity to exercise responsibility.
Members own the cooperative together and have the security of being able to remain in their homes for as long as they wish, as long as they meet their monthly obligations, and abide by their co-op bylaws, rules and regulations.
Pet Policy
For new members moving into their unit with pets or who acquire them any time after move-in, a pet damage deposit in the amount of $500.00 per pet must be paid to the co-op.
At the end of a tenancy, the co-op may keep all or a part of the pet damage deposit to pay for damage caused by a pet. The co-op will return any remaining pet damage deposit within 60 days after the membership ends.
Aquariums
Fish are permitted in aquariums, however, any damage caused by excess weight, poor installation, leakage, misuse or product defects will be the responsibility of the Member resident.
Home Guidelines
Decorating Do’s and Don’ts
Members require prior permission to paint their unit. If you are a novice painter, we ask that you refrain from painting. We have a list of wonderful painters who offer very reasonable rates and several of our members have taken advantage of this.
In the long run this will likely save you money as the Co-op charges members upon move-out for damages and for painting that does not meet the Co-op’s standard.
Governance and Management Structure
Brittany Lane Housing Cooperative is managed by its members, its Board of Directors (7 members), and a part-time property manager. Through general membership meetings, the members;
Our Commitee Structure
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee reviews the annual income verification, subsidy application, and monthly bank statements. They assist with the budget process and discuss financial issues in conjunction with the Treasurer.
Membership & By-Law Committee
The Membership Committee looks after the interviewing process, arranges and conducts the applicants’ first interview, and markets the co-op while the the By-Law and Policy Committee updates and creates policies and by-laws as needed.
Community Relations Committee
The Community Relations Committee is responsible for inclusive event planning for community building. Events include a barbeque with spring cleanup, a Halloween party for the kids, and other get togethers (karaoke is a favorite here at the Brittany Lanes).
Maintenance Committee
The Maintenance Committee includes volunteers that make up the move in and out team, the landscaping and grounds team, and the emergency response team.
By-Law and Policy Committee
The By-Law and Policy Committee updates and creates policies and by-laws as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take for my application to be processed?
Our Membership Committee (comprised of volunteers), will review your application as time permits. It may take a few weeks before you’re contacted for the initial interview. Once you’ve passed the initial interview, we’ll schedule a board interview. Because the board only meets twice a month (with packed agendas), it may be several weeks before your board interview (we are doing our best to shorten this process).
How often do homes become available?
We have no way of knowing when a home will become available. Sometimes it’s quick, other times it’s months of waiting. Three-bedroom homes become vacant more often than 2 or 4-bedroom homes because we have more of them.
Will bad credit impact my application?
It might, but we recognize that many people have had life experiences beyond their control. That said, we’re willing to talk with applicants about their reasons for poor credit ratings. However, if you have a bad credit rating, a landlord recommendation helps.
How often do housing costs increase?
Annually – to keep up with inflation and expenses. Every May, we review and approve our budgets that determine the amount of the August 1 housing cost increase. Since we are a non-profit we do our best to keep increases minimal.
What is an Annual Income Verification?
Each year, the co-op completes annual income verifications for each member of a household. Copies of paystubs, notice of assessments, and other documents are required for this process. We are required to ensure that households are not exceeding the income ceiling and that housing costs are correctly set. In April, packages are sent out to each home with completion required by mid-May.
Do I need home insurance?
Yes, each member must carry content insurance and $2 million liability. This is a requirement of the Co-operative By-laws.
