Rules in a high-rise community create structure, safety, and fairness for all residents. They help maintain the building’s appearance, protect property values, and ensure everyone enjoys a peaceful, well-managed living environment. Clear and consistent rules make daily life smoother and promote mutual respect among neighbors.

However, when a rule is poorly written or mistranslated, it can lead to serious confusion and conflict. Ambiguous wording may cause residents and board members to interpret the same rule in completely different ways, resulting in inconsistent enforcement, frustration, and even legal disputes. A simple misunderstanding, such as the intent of a restriction of operating a business in common areas, can quickly escalate into community tension and mistrust. Inaccurate translations can also make residents feel excluded or unfairly treated if the rule’s meaning is unclear in their language. Ultimately, unclear or poorly communicated rules undermine the very order and harmony they were meant to preserve.

An example of misleading translation is this common rule.

Business or commercial activity is strictly prohibited by the Declaration. Such prohibited activity shall include, but not be limited to, all for-profit efforts conducted within or from any Common Element or from or within any Unit. The Units shall be used and occupied by Residents only as and for residential purposes.

In other words:

No one is allowed to run a business or make money from work inside their home or anywhere in the building’s shared spaces. All the homes in this building are only for people to live in — not for selling things, having a commercial office, or doing any kind of business that increases traffic. This rule helps maintain a quiet, safe, and residential environment for everyone.

This rule is sometimes wrongfully used to prevent or stop any advertising, recommendations, sponsorships, and activities in Common Areas that benefit the community. This rule is simply against turning a residence into a shopping mall. Resident-only art shows and wine tastings are a great way to strengthen community connections and enhance the quality of life in your high-rise. As long as the events remain private, non-commercial, and approved under HOA guidelines, they are both permissible and encouraged.

An example:

Resident Event Guidelines

(Art Shows, Wine Tastings, and Social Gatherings)

Purpose

These guidelines are established to encourage community engagement through social and cultural activities while ensuring that all events are conducted safely, responsibly, and in accordance with HOA rules, local laws, and insurance requirements.

1. Eligible Events

Residents may host small, private, non-commercial events such as:

Resident art shows or exhibitions
Wine tastings or social gatherings
Educational or cultural presentations
Seasonal or holiday celebrations

All events must be intended for residents and their invited guests only. Events open to the general public are not permitted.

2. Event Approval

Residents must submit an Event Request Form to the HOA management office or Board at least 14 days in advance.
Approval is required for any event held in common areas (e.g., club room, lobby, rooftop deck, or courtyard).
The Board or management reserves the right to approve, modify, or deny any request to ensure compliance with community standards, occupancy limits, and insurance coverage.

3. Use of Common Areas

Common areas must be left clean and undamaged after the event.
Noise must be kept within local ordinance limits and quiet hours observed.
Decorations must not damage walls, furniture, or fixtures.
No open flames or hazardous materials are permitted.

4. Alcohol Service

Alcohol may be served privately and without charge to residents and invited guests.
The sale of alcohol or open invitation to non-residents is strictly prohibited.
The event host must ensure responsible service and compliance with local alcohol regulations.

5. Liability and Insurance

The resident host assumes responsibility for the conduct of all guests and any damages incurred during the event.
Events serving alcohol or involving external vendors may require proof of insurance or an event rider naming the HOA as an additional insured.
The HOA is not liable for personal injury, property loss, or damages arising from resident-hosted events.

6. Vendor and Performer Requirements

Any vendor, caterer, or entertainer hired by a resident must provide proof of liability insurance and comply with HOA access and parking rules.
All vendors must be pre-approved by management before the event date.

7. Enforcement

Failure to comply with these guidelines may result in denial of future event requests, fines, or other action as permitted under the Association’s governing documents.

8. Community Spirit

The HOA encourages residents to plan events that bring neighbors together and enhance the sense of community pride. When conducted responsibly, resident-led activities such as art shows and wine tastings contribute to a vibrant and enjoyable living environment for everyone.