A new study commissioned by the National Apartment Association and the National Multifamily Housing Council projects the need for 4.3 million new apartments by 2035 to keep up with expected demand but notes that due to housing underproduction after the 2008 financial housing crisis, keeping new units affordable will be a challenge.

Even the best-prepared organization is vulnerable to cybercriminals seeking to hold data and systems hostage in exchange for payment. Ransomware attacks, as they’re known, impact every industry. Since 2016, the U.S. has experienced around 4,000 ransomware attacks daily.

Human trafficking, commonly regarded as one of the most severe global human rights issues of the modern day, can happen in any community and affect individuals of any age, race, gender, or nationality.

Emergency pull cords are a common feature in multifamily housing, installed throughout units as a safety precaution for residents who may need emergency assistance. But if a pull cord system is improperly maintained or monitored, it can endanger residents by providing a false sense of comfort. 

"Housing organizations need to make sure that emergency pull cords are functioning and monitored so 911 can be called if a cord is pulled," said Elizabeth Owens, HAI Group's director of risk control and consulting. "If the pull cord system isn't functioning, it must be repaired immediately or removed."

HAI Group’s board and committee members convene annually to determine the winners of our Risk Management Awards, developed to recognize public housing agencies that go above and beyond to address various risks to residents and staff.

Employees and residents exposed to extreme heat or who regularly work in hot environments have a high potential for experiencing heat-related illnesses. Extended exposure to extreme heat can cause severe conditions, including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat rash, and sunburn.

It may surprise many housing organizations, but carbon monoxide detectors aren't required in certain types of federally-assisted housing. As of Dec. 27, that’s no longer the case.

Recreational water facilities—also known as splash parks, splash pads, spray grounds, wet decks, or spray parks—have gained popularity over the last decade. They’re interactive, non-natural recreational areas where water is sprayed, splashed, or poured onto visitors. Water drains immediately out of the play area instead of accumulating. There’s no doubt these recreational areas provide plenty of fun in the sun, but they also present unique hazards for residents and guests. Check out our tips below, and get in touch with a member of our Risk Control and Consulting team if you have any questions.

Local municipalities and private owners may offer to donate property to your affordable housing organization. While there are clear advantages to these donations, including the potential to increase housing stock in the area, you should consider several factors before accepting donated property.

Regularly passing on safety and security recommendations to residents is an essential practice for housing organizations, but one that isn’t always feasible on a day-to-day basis.