CMCA Ethics and Professional Conduct 5

Question 1

A new CMCA takes over management of a community and discovers the prior manager left incomplete records. What is the ethical obligation regarding these records?

Accepted Answer

Document the gaps, attempt to reconstruct records from available sources, and notify the board of deficiencies

Answer

The incoming manager must document what records are missing, attempt reconstruction where possible, and promptly inform the board so the association can protect its legal and financial interests.

Question 2

Under professional ethics standards, when is it acceptable for a CMCA to act on a matter without board direction?

Accepted Answer

Only in genuine emergencies where delay would cause immediate harm and board approval cannot be obtained in time

Answer

Independent action without board authorization is justified only in true emergencies where delay would cause imminent harm and timely board approval is impossible; all other actions require authorization.

Question 3

A homeowner alleges that the manager discriminated against them in rule enforcement based on national origin. What is the CMCA's first ethical and legal obligation?

Accepted Answer

Take the allegation seriously, cease the potentially discriminatory practice, and consult legal counsel immediately

Answer

Fair housing laws prohibit discriminatory enforcement; the manager must treat the allegation seriously, stop any potentially unlawful practice, and immediately involve legal counsel.

Question 4

A CMCA is asked by the board to waive late fees for a board member's account while enforcing them for all other owners. What ethical principle is at stake?

Accepted Answer

Equal treatment and the prohibition against preferential treatment for board members

Answer

Waiving fees exclusively for board members violates the principle of equal treatment and can expose the association to legal claims of selective enforcement and self-dealing.

Question 5

Which of the following is the most accurate description of 'conflict of interest' as it applies to CMCA ethics?

Accepted Answer

A situation where a personal or financial interest could improperly influence the manager's professional judgment or duties

Answer

A conflict of interest occurs when personal or financial interests have the potential to impair the manager's objectivity or undivided loyalty to the association.

CMCA - Certified Manager of Community Associations Practice Test

CMCA - Certified Manager of Community Associations Practice Test

CMCA Ethics and Professional Conduct 5