Comprehensive HOA Law Counsel for Rochester Associations

Schneider Buchel LLP brings extensive experience to homeowners’ associations throughout Rochester. We serve as general counsel for many associations, offering guidance on all aspects of HOA law—from document interpretation and compliance to dispute resolution and collections. Our firm’s strength lies in our ability to deliver tailored legal solutions while maintaining long-term client relationships built on trust and results.

Whether your board is navigating a complex governance issue or responding to a resident dispute, we offer knowledgeable and strategic representation. Rochester HOAs benefit from our commitment to responsive communication, deep knowledge of state statutes, and creative legal problem-solving. Schedule a consultation with our team today to learn how we can help protect and advance your association’s interests.

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

Our attorneys regularly counsel HOA boards on how to enforce their governing documents while reducing the risk of litigation. We help associations enforce their Declaration, By-Laws, and House Rules while steering clear of legal missteps. Boards often adopt rules or policies without realizing that doing so may require homeowner approval or amendments to foundational documents.

We clarify those limitations and help correct or prevent governance errors. If disputes do arise, we are prepared to defend the board in court. A key protection we often propose is a clause requiring any homeowner who sues the association and loses to reimburse the HOA for its legal costs. This provision is effective in discouraging meritless claims and shielding community resources.

Even though HOAs have wide authority, improper or delayed enforcement can invite costly legal challenges. Our firm emphasizes timely, well-documented enforcement that aligns with both the letter and spirit of your governing rules. We serve as partners in helping HOA boards maintain orderly communities through legally sound processes that protect both association interests and homeowner rights.

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Non-Payment of Assessment and Other Charges

Assessment delinquencies are among the most common and disruptive issues faced by HOAs. Left unchecked, unpaid dues can cascade into funding shortfalls, deferred maintenance, and disputes among members. We offer comprehensive collection services, beginning with lien filings and extending through foreclosure if needed. Our dedicated collections department is well-versed in all aspects of HOA assessment enforcement.

Post-Foreclosure Guidance That Works

Once a lien is foreclosed, the association has decisions to make. We help Boards evaluate next steps based on the financial landscape: Should you sell? Lease? Negotiate with the mortgage lender? Our legal team ensures those decisions are made from a position of strength.

We also ensure that all permitted amounts—legal fees, interest, and statutory penalties—are recovered. Acting promptly not only accelerates recovery but also reinforces the association’s credibility in enforcing its financial obligations.

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Contract Review, Drafting, and Negotiation

At Schneider Buchel LLP, we provide detailed support for drafting, negotiating, and reviewing contracts critical to association governance. These include agreements with vendors, management firms, and service professionals, as well as AIA and employment contracts. Our attorneys focus on aligning contract terms with your legal authority and operational needs.

Protecting the Association

Our experience helps boards avoid exposure to claims, liabilities, and financial setbacks due to unfavorable language. We examine indemnification clauses, insurance coverage, and timelines for performance to ensure clear responsibilities. Getting legal counsel involved from the start offers the board peace of mind and significantly lowers the chance of disputes or litigation.

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

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Regulatory Agencies and Code Mandates

Our attorneys are skilled at interpreting and responding to regulatory obligations imposed by government agencies and codes. We actively monitor evolving legal standards to inform and prepare our clients before new rules take effect. This proactive guidance not only reduces liability but also fosters smoother operations. If conflicts with regulatory authorities arise, we are ready to litigate or negotiate on your behalf to resolve issues efficiently and favorably.

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Governing Documents

When HOAs include multiple condominium components, conflicts and confusion often arise. Our firm guides these associations through the process of updating and streamlining their governing documents, enabling the HOA board to assume responsibility for essential functions like repairs, financial oversight, and rule enforcement.

Too often, Offering Plans created by sponsors are impractical or outdated. We identify these gaps and draft amendments to simplify governance structures. Our updates help associations operate more effectively and minimize conflict across their communities.

Construction Defect Litigation

Transitioning from a sponsor-controlled board often exposes newly formed community associations to costly construction defects. These issues demand knowledgeable legal guidance—something our litigation team at Schneider Buchel provides every day.

Litigating With Precision and Purpose

Our attorneys help Boards retain experts, interpret warranty obligations, and properly document defects. We ensure that all notice and claim procedures are followed to preserve your rights under the governing documents. When litigation becomes unavoidable, we are equipped to represent associations at every stage, including appeals.

In addition to sponsor disputes, we handle breach-of-contract claims against contractors who fail to meet specifications. Whether the issue is faulty work or incomplete delivery, our team helps you explore alternatives before committing to court. Still, when legal action is needed, we are confident, prepared, and focused on obtaining the best result for your association.

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Additional HOA Law Assistance

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

Dedicated to Providing Excellent Client Care

At our firm, client care includes proactive cooperation with the other professionals supporting your HOA. We understand that strong representation often requires a team-based approach. Whether it’s a property manager, CPA, or engineer, we engage with your advisors directly to ensure our legal services align with the collective insight of your full professional team.

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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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What Makes HOA Law Different

An HOA is a legal entity created by developers to oversee a community of homes and shared property. In exchange for following a defined set of rules, homeowners benefit from organized amenities such as private roads, landscaping, and recreational facilities. Most HOAs are structured under the New York Not-For-Profit Corporation Law and governed by the community’s Declaration, By-Laws, and House Rules.

Understanding the Source of Tension

Many homeowners mistakenly assume they retain the same property rights they had before joining an HOA. Coming from traditional single-family residences, they may be surprised to find that they can no longer paint their homes just any color, plant shrubs wherever they like, or erect signage freely.

Boards often encounter resistance from residents unfamiliar with the obligations that come with shared governance. Educating homeowners on the legal framework and expectations is essential to preventing conflict. When issues persist, Boards need legal support to enforce rules while minimizing liability. HOA attorneys help interpret the governing documents, draft necessary amendments, and defend Board actions when challenged—allowing communities to function fairly and within the law.

Office Tour New York’s Leading Community Association Law Firm

Schneider Buchel LLP proudly serves community associations statewide with offices in Long Island, New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Saratoga. From these six locations, our attorneys provide trusted legal counsel to boards across all 62 counties in New York State. Wherever your community is located, our team is equipped to deliver the focused guidance and efficient solutions your association needs to thrive.

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Rochester’s Trusted Counsel for HOA Matters

Schneider Buchel offers strategic legal representation for HOAs across Rochester. If your board is facing complex issues or needs long-term counsel, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an HOA attorney in Rochester who is focused on your community’s needs.

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