To ensure compliance, what should a board/property manager do when selecting service vendors?

When selecting service vendors, it is essential for a board or property manager to solicit proposals and evaluate each one based on established criteria. This approach ensures a thorough vetting process, allowing for the assessment of each vendor's qualifications, experience, reliability, and ability to meet the specific needs of the property.

By evaluating proposals, the board can compare different vendors to find the best fit, ensuring that they receive quality services at a fair price. This methodical selection process also fosters transparency and accountability, which are crucial in the context of managing community resources and relationships with service providers.

In contrast, relying solely on personal referrals can lead to biases and may overlook important qualifications. Choosing only vendors with a history of previous work might limit options and hinder the opportunity to find potentially better or more cost-effective service providers. Selecting vendors solely based on price can compromise quality, as the cheapest option may not meet the required service standards. Additionally, the focus should not only be on cost but also on the value and quality of the service being provided. By prioritizing a comprehensive evaluation approach, boards, and property managers can make informed decisions that ultimately benefit the community they serve.