Insurance Claims Defense

Name: Insurance Claims Defense
Brand: Schneider Buchel LLP
Rating: 4.4 (36 reviews)

At Schneider Buchel LLP, we understand how quickly legal claims against community associations can escalate into complex, costly challenges. Our experienced legal team provides proactive claims defense strategies to protect the long-term stability of New York’s HOAs, co-ops, and condo boards.

Choose Schneider Buchel for Proactive Claims Defense

Drawing on more than 20 years of experience exclusively in community association law, our attorneys understand how even a single claim can disrupt your board’s operations, compromise member trust, and drain financial resources. Because community association law is all we do, we understand how even a single claim can disrupt your board’s operations, compromise member trust, and drain financial resources. Our attorneys offer proven strategies for preventing escalation, mitigating liability, and achieving efficient resolutions aligned with your community’s goals.

Common Claims Scenarios

Our attorneys work to contain issues before they escalate, and to close claims with minimal cost or disruption whenever possible. The following are some of the most frequent triggers for legal action against boards:

Denial of architectural requests or renovation applications
Towing or parking enforcement complaints
Pet-related disputes involving breed restrictions or nuisance claims
Member-to-member harassment allegations
Special assessment disputes or late fee enforcement

Client Testimonials What Our Clients Have To Say

Highly skilled at navigating the complex web of laws that apply only to associations.

John, Board Member

Your diligence and commitment to our community has been the catalyst to solving our delinquencies.

Ralph, Board President

Your professionalism and strong determination was the leading factor in winning all of our litigations.

Steve, Board President

We've had the pleasure of working with this exceptional law firm over 25 years and couldn't be more impressed.

Paul, Property Manager

Extremely competent and an exceptional ability to communicate effectively with Board Members.

Alexis, Board Member

Deep expertise in HOA law and strong commitment to protecting the best interests of our community.

Billy, HOA Association

Results-driven and the best choice we ever made. Highly recommended to anyone seeking the best legal counsel.

Steven, Co-Op Association

I am a property manager and have used Schneider Buchel for many years. They are extremely experienced in coop/condo law. Pete Weintraub recently advised a Coop Board on adopting a fine policy. He helped the Board develop the policy and gave them expert guidance on the process to get it approved by the shareholders. I highly recommend both the firm and Pete.

Richard Rush

Top Notch law firm. We entrusted Schneider Buchel LLP over the years as they provide us with their expertise on Co-Op Law. Justin Buchel has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to us, provides top tier representation and always delivers positive outcomes. Thank you.

Ingrid Baerwald

I've had the pleasure of working with Victoria Waller for a luxury condominium in the heart of Gramercy and can say, hands down, she is one of the best! Her construction background is just a bonus to her work ethic, professionalism, and thoroughness! When Victoria is involved, clients are confident that their concerns will be heard and addressed timely.

Maribel Vega

The firm exemplifies a high level of professionalism and great attention to detail. Throughout my years of experience collaborating with various firms in the industry, I have found this particular firm to be the most responsive and professional. Notably, Victoria Waller, who is extremely competent and has an exceptional ability to communicate effectively with Board Members, providing thorough explanations.

Alexis Fritz

We have had nothing but excellent interactions with Victoria Waller and the team at Schneider Buchel. Her advice is on point, clear and practical. She's readily available and always responds to messages and emails. She's a great addition to the team.

Tom Flood

Schneider Buchel LLP have represented our cooperative for over 20 years. Their staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and on target no matter what issue we present. They are result driven and the best choice we ever made. I highly recommend them to anyone seeking the very best legal counsel.

Steven Liss

I am an attorney in Florida and I have known Marc personally and professionally for almost 10 years. I would not hesitate in sending him any work relating to HOA or COA law; his expertise is amazing, and his ethics are second to none.

Craig Goldenfarb

Great law firm! Everyone is extremely helpful when dealing with all of our co-op issues. Big shout out to Anda! She is on top of everything all the time and constantly updates us! Highly recommend!

Lori Max

Love working with Victoria. She is very attentive and responses very quickly to e mails and calls. Working with Victoria makes the transactions go smooth and easy.:)

Elham Danialian

Marc has unmatched focus on everything an association needs to be successful and well run. His firm truly is one of the top in the country for this very specific area of law.

John Lin McCraw

I would like to share my experiences with this firm. All of my dealings with the entire team have been exceptional. All matters are dealt with efficiently, effectively and professionally. The level of expertise is beyond compare.

Joei Losito

Our Claims Defense Representation

Community associations often face a variety of claims from unit owners, vendors, employees, or regulatory bodies. Our firm routinely provides legal defense in the following areas:

Personal Injury and Premises Liability

Slip-and-fall claims, injuries in common areas, and other personal injury lawsuits can expose associations to liability. We defend these matters vigorously, working closely with insurance counsel and risk managers to limit exposure and cost.

Fair Housing and Discrimination Claims

Our team has extensive experience defending associations against housing discrimination and reasonable accommodation complaints. We respond to HUD, NYSDHR, and local commission investigations, and handle litigation where needed, often resolving these disputes early and favorably.

Breach of Fiduciary Duty and Board Conduct

Board members are frequently targeted with claims of negligence or misconduct. We represent boards and individual members in defense of these allegations and work to prevent personal liability while protecting the integrity of the governance structure.

Contract Disputes and Vendor Claims

When vendors allege breach of contract or payment issues, our firm steps in to resolve disputes efficiently. We review contract terms, defend against unsupported claims, and pursue a resolution that avoids disruption to the association’s operations.

Insurance Coverage and Carrier Appointments

Insurance carriers regularly appoint Schneider Buchel to represent associations in covered claims. We coordinate directly with carriers and adjusters, ensure full access to available coverage, and provide seamless communication throughout the claims process. We regularly work with insurance carriers, including those of our clients, to defend claims brought against associations, board members, and property managers.

How We Approach Claims Defense

Our firm takes a structured, high-touch approach to every claim, focusing on protecting both the legal and reputational interests of the board. We prioritize efficiency and clarity at every step, helping the board remain focused on community governance while we manage the legal complexities.

Our defense process includes:

Early risk assessment and evidence preservation
Evaluation of governing documents, bylaws, and insurance coverage
Consultation with board members, managers, and insurers
Strategic negotiation and settlement when appropriate
Full litigation support through trial and appeal if necessary

Preventive Legal Guidance for Boards

While our claims defense services are comprehensive, we also emphasize prevention. Schneider Buchel offers ongoing legal counsel to help associations reduce their risk of litigation altogether.

We assist with board training, review of governing documents, and policy implementation designed to minimize the most common claim triggers. Proactive legal support often saves communities far more than post-claim defense.

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Schedule a Consultation

If your association is facing a legal claim, delay can cost more than dollars—it can affect operations, morale, and compliance. Reach out to Schneider Buchel today. Our claims defense team is ready to assess your situation and help protect your community's future.