Is Your Condo Ready for Some (FIFA) Football?

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is fast approaching, and soccer fans are ready. But many condominium associations located near (or not so near) MetLife Stadium, where multiple matches will be held in June and July, including the final on July 19, may not be ready. Fans need a place to stay while in town for World Cup matches and unit owners (and their tenants) may see an opportunity to make a quick buck by providing their units for short-term rentals.

Many of these short-term tenants will likely not be any trouble and will fly under the association’s radar. However, a short-term tenant who has no ties to the building may not be interested in association rules; combined with a passion for soccer (and possibly some alcohol), there is a potential for disturbances and property damage.

If your board is concerned about short-term rentals during the World Cup or otherwise, it’s time to make a plan.

Start by reading the leasing restrictions in the association’s master deed and any rules and policies adopted by the association. Short-term rentals, often for any period less than one year or another time period, are likely prohibited. The governing documents may also have other requirements such as the submission of a written lease making the lease subject to the governing documents. Consult with the association’s attorney to ensure you understand the restrictions and requirements.

Once management and the board understand these restrictions and requirements, it is time to spread the word that they exist, what they mean, and that they will be enforced. Communicate this message in many different ways and communicate it multiple times. If the association has authority to impose fines, make sure unit owners know about the fines. Some associations have a fixed fine amount, but if yours can be any reasonable amount, formally establish the fine amount now so that it fits the violation.

Consider establishing new rules and policies, or even amendments, that will address potential concerns with short-term rentals and rentals in general. Think of parking, common area use, and amenity access. In some cases, it may be worthwhile to hire additional staff during this time to check access to the gym, pool, and parking garage and to handle noise complaints and any complicated situations. There is still time to hold a board meeting at which new rules and policies are adopted and to give notice to unit owners of these policies. There is also still time to hold a special meeting of the unit owners to approve new restrictions, increase fining authority, and/or authorize fee shifting for enforcement actions.

If your condominium association needs help in interpreting leasing requirements, adopting rules, or amending the governing documents to get your condo ready for the World Cup this summer or anytime, please contact us.