HAI Group Blog

Insurance, Risk Management, and Professional Development Tips for the Affordable Housing Industry.

Sidewalk construction

Case Study: The Importance of Indemnification (Hold Harmless) Clauses in Construction Contracts

A resident trips and falls on your sidewalk, which is in the process of being replaced. He injures his back and shoulder, racking up nearly $100,000 in medical bills. The resident then files a lawsuit, alleging the construction site was not properly marked or roped off. Who’s liable for the damages, you or your contractor?

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Study Predicts Huge Apartment Demand, Difficulties Keeping Units Affordable

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.

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Emergency pull cord in bathroom stall

Are Your Emergency Pull Cords Working As Designed?

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 should ensure that emergency pull cords are functioning, tested, and monitored by a third party with a solid contract in place so emergency services can be notified if a cord is pulled," said Elizabeth Owens, HAI Group's director of risk control and consulting. 

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