Trusted HOA Law Representation in NYC

At Schneider Buchel LLP, our HOA lawyers in NYC provide homeowners’ associations with legal counsel tailored to the city’s unique residential communities. Our firm acts as general counsel to hundreds of associations, addressing governance issues, dispute resolution, collections, and compliance matters. We bring creativity and precision to every HOA challenge, backed by years of experience and practical insight.

Whether your board is facing operational questions, contract issues, or enforcement concerns, our attorneys can help resolve them strategically and efficiently. Our continued representation of long-standing clients reflects the trust we build with every matter. If your HOA is navigating a complex legal issue in NYC, contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience the difference of working with Schneider Buchel.

Enforcement of the Terms of the HOA’s Declaration, By-Laws, and House Rules

At Schneider Buchel LLP, we support HOA boards in enforcing their Declaration, By-Laws, and House Rules effectively and lawfully. Many Boards unknowingly adopt rules or policies outside their legal authority, which can expose the association to liability. Our attorneys ensure your governance is rooted in the authority granted by your founding documents and that changes are executed through proper homeowner voting procedures when required.

We also represent boards in defending against homeowner-initiated lawsuits related to rule enforcement.

In many cases, we recommend a governing document amendment that enables the HOA to recover legal fees from homeowners who sue and fail to prevail. This provision discourages baseless litigation and protects association resources.

Enforcement challenges can spiral into expensive disputes if mishandled or delayed. We help boards address issues promptly, mitigating risks before they escalate. With broad legal authority and focused counsel, your HOA can enforce its rules confidently and avoid unnecessary complications. Whether the goal is proactive compliance or a strategic defense, our team provides experienced guidance every step of the way.

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Non-Payment of Assessment and Other Charges

Unpaid monthly dues and special assessments remain one of the most pressing issues for HOAs. These delinquencies can create budgetary shortfalls that affect maintenance, repairs, and reserves—placing undue burden on responsible homeowners.

Strategic Collection and Foreclosure

Schneider Buchel offers focused representation in the collection and enforcement of HOA assessments. We maintain a dedicated team that manages everything from lien filings to foreclosure proceedings. Once a lien is foreclosed, we assist boards in determining the best next steps—whether that means selling the unit, leasing it, or negotiating with a mortgage holder. Our attorneys work diligently to recover all amounts owed, including interest, legal fees, and other costs permitted by governing documents and state law. Our fast-tracked process limits financial damage and expedites a return to solvency. With early legal action and informed decision-making, we help HOAs reduce risk, enforce compliance, and maintain long-term community health.

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Contract Review, Drafting, and Negotiation

Community associations face complex legal obligations, and the contracts they sign must reflect that reality. Our attorneys assist with contract review, negotiation, and drafting to reduce risk and preserve your rights. We work with a broad range of documents, including vendor contracts, professional service agreements, employment contracts, and AIA-standard construction agreements.

Why Legal Review Matters

Without proper oversight, contracts may transfer risk to the association, lack enforceable timelines, or omit warranty protections. We carefully analyze every provision and make strategic modifications to safeguard your community. From collective bargaining agreements to architectural design contracts, we deliver meticulous legal review and ensure all terms align with your governing documents and legal obligations.

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

Regulatory Agencies and Code Mandates

Our firm provides knowledgeable legal counsel on navigating regulatory frameworks and code requirements that impact community associations. By monitoring legislative trends and agency actions, we help clients stay compliant and avoid enforcement penalties. When necessary, our attorneys are fully equipped to defend your association or initiate appropriate legal action in disputes involving non-compliance or regulatory challenges. We provide practical, timely solutions that protect your operational integrity.

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Governing Documents

Many HOAs include condominium sections and function as umbrella associations overseeing multiple residential components. We routinely help these associations consolidate and revise their governing documents to ensure a unified system of responsibility, such as for repairs, assessments, and operational matters.

Offering Plans and associated legal documents—often drafted by the sponsor’s attorney—may create unnecessary complexity. We assist HOAs in simplifying these frameworks through well-drafted amendments. Our goal is to clarify each board’s obligations and promote streamlined, efficient governance across the entire community.

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Construction Defect Litigation

Construction defects often come to light once a homeowner-controlled Board assumes control from the sponsor. These situations require knowledgeable legal guidance to avoid delays and maximize potential recovery—something our firm provides through our litigation department.

Helping Associations Take Action

Our attorneys help your Board assemble the right experts, understand your offering plan’s warranty provisions, and document claims with care. We prepare all necessary filings and litigate aggressively if a resolution outside court isn’t viable. Appeals, if required, are handled seamlessly within our litigation strategy.

In addition, we represent Boards in disputes with third-party contractors who fail to deliver on quality or contract obligations. Our approach is comprehensive and proactive—we work to resolve problems early but are always ready to litigate if progress stalls. Our goal is to protect your association’s interests with clarity and confidence.

Additional HOA Law Assistance

  • Contract drafting
  • Financial security of the HOA
  • Loans (CIRA Loans) for capital expenditures and repairs
  • Complex dispute resolution
  • Negotiate, mediate, and litigate practical solutions
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Preeminent Specialists Meet Our Attorney Teams

At Schneider Buchel, every attorney is focused on a specific area of Community Association Law. When legal issues arise, you don’t get a generalist. Here, you get a coordinated team of legal specialists, each bringing deep experience in their field. Whether it’s day-to-day governance, contract negotiation, or complex litigation, you have the right attorney with the right experience working to protect your community’s interest and deliver the legal outcome you need.

Transactional Department:

Handles all day-to-day legal needs, including governance and contract matters.

Landlord, Tenant & Foreclosures Department:

Manages complex disputes and represents boards and associations in court.

Real Estate Department:

Specialists in all real estate transactions—drafting and negotiating leases, closings, etc.

Litigation Department:

Manages complex disputes and represents boards and associations in court.

Justin S. Buchel

Partner

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George J. Mullane

Foreclosure and Landlord/Tenant Department Chair

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Cassidy R. Kalmenson

Landlord Tenant Litigation Attorney

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Ivana Garbowski

Foreclosure Attorney

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Jason Goodman

Transactional Department Chair

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Jason Mohabir

Landlord Tenant Litigation Attorney

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Mitchell J. Flachner

Litigation Department Chair

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Amy Zamir

Attorney

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Pete Weintraub

Attorney

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Sloan Zarkin

Attorney

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Suzanne Player

Foreclosure Attorney

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Vanessa Wilcox

Attorney

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Victoria M. Waller

Real Estate Department Chair

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Jennifer Anderson

Paralegal

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Idalia Innocent

Paralegal

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Margarita Morales

Paralegal

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Meet Our Founder & CEO Marc H. Schneider, Esq

Having served as a Board President of a community association himself, Marc knows firsthand the unique needs of associations and what it takes to protect and elevate a community for all. He built his entire New York law practice around meeting and solving these needs. Today Schneider Buchel is very much a reflection of Marc’s personal affection for and sense of commitment to the people who manage community associations.

Group icon media Former Board President of a NY Community Assn.
Work icon media Three Decades of Community Law Experience
Co-Chair icon media Co-Chair NY State Bar Condo & Co-Op Committee
Building icon media Council of New York Co-Ops & Condos Member

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Dedicated to Providing Excellent Client Care

Legal excellence includes collaborative problem-solving. Our attorneys are ready to work with your HOA’s outside professionals—whether consultants, financial planners, or management agents—to deliver coordinated support. We believe that aligning legal representation with the broader advice you’re receiving results in more efficient outcomes and reduces confusion for your board.

What Makes HOA Law Different

A Homeowners Association (HOA) is typically formed by a real estate developer to oversee and maintain the shared elements of a residential community, including townhomes, houses, or planned developments. In return for agreeing to follow certain rules, homeowners benefit from amenities such as clubhouses, pools, landscaping services, and security. HOAs operate under foundational governing documents—the Declaration, By-Laws, and House Rules—and are usually organized under the New York Not-For-Profit Corporation Law.

Shifting Expectations for Homeowners

Conflicts often arise due to misunderstandings about the structure and authority of HOAs. Many homeowners come from single-family dwellings that are not governed by community rules and are unaccustomed to the restrictions that accompany HOA living. These residents may expect to retain full autonomy over property appearance and use—such as planting freely, painting homes bold colors, or placing signage wherever they wish. When entering an HOA, they discover that these actions may be regulated or restricted entirely.

It falls on the HOA Board to manage expectations, enforce policies, and ensure compliance while also maintaining the common elements of the development. For this reason, the Board must be prepared to balance firm rule enforcement with diplomacy and fairness. Legal guidance becomes essential when Boards face opposition or disputes. Understanding both the statutory framework and the social dynamics of shared governance is crucial to maintaining community stability and legal compliance.

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Schedule a Consultation for HOA Legal Support in NYC

Whether you need legal guidance for your HOA board or help navigating disputes, our HOA attorneys in NYC are ready to assist. Contact Schneider Buchel today and put our deep HOA law experience to work for your community.

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