[Insurance; Exclusions] A condominium association’s insurance carrier providing an “all risks” policy has the burden to prove a specific coverage exclusion applies.

[Maintenance; Board Deference] The deference afforded to HOA Boards may not extend to situations where the Board fails to act or to investigate the scope of required maintenance or repairs.

[Maintenance; Duty of Care] HOA’s responsibility with respect to maintenance and repair of sidewalks adjacent to HOA’s property.

[Maintenance; Board Deference] The deference afforded to HOA Boards for maintenance decisions does not extend to the Board’s interpretation as to the scope of the HOA’s maintenance responsibilities under its CC&Rs.

[CC&Rs; Exculpatory Clause] An exculpatory clause in the CC&Rs limiting the HOA’s liability is not against public policy.

[Rule of Judicial Deference; Maintenance] Courts will defer to decisions made by a HOA Board of Directors regarding ordinary maintenance of a common interest development.

[Business Judgment Rule; Reasonable Investigation; Bad Faith] The business judgment rule and rule of judicial deference will not shield an HOA Board from liability where it fails to conduct a reasonable investigation and/or acts in bad faith.

[Maintenance; Board Deference] The deference afforded to HOA boards covers only “ordinary” maintenance; the “Lamden Rule” only insulates directors from liability, not the HOA.

[Maintenance; Board Deference] No independent tort liability for failing to maintain common areas; Rule of Judicial Deference does not protect failure to perform inspections or preventative maintenance.