Q: What is an underlying mortgage?

A: When the Corporation was established in 1982, a mortgage was taken with a financial institution so that money would be available to meet the challenges of ownership. In 1997, this mortgage was renegotiated to take advantage of the lower interest rates. Each shareholder’s mortgage is determined by their shares and is divided by all but 192 owners who chose to pay off their share in 1997. This mortgage will be paid in full in September 2006.

Q: How is the amount of my assessment determined?

A: The number of shares associated with each apartment determines all fees. When the Corporation was established in 1982, such things determined shares as the location of an apartment, its size, view, etc. There are 576,948 outstanding shares.

Q: Will my assessment go up?

A: Each year when the budget is developed for the following year, management outlines anticipated expenses. As with your personal budget, should expenses be greater than income, assessments would increase. The Promenade has been fortunate that for, at least, the past seven (7) years there has been no need to increase fees. This is due to long range planning by the Board and management that provides for work to be completed within the existing fee structure. There are, however, no guarantees that an increase in fees will not be proposed at some future time. There is no increase recommended in 2003.

Q: What happens if I don't pay my assessment?

A: Just as with businesses or personal finances, if income does not meet the projected expenses there is usually a problem. Since the Corporation depends on each shareholder to pay their monthly assessments, the Board of Directors has established a delinquent account policy. Action can be anything from a reminder notice, to a letter from the Corporation’s attorney, to filing suit in the Montgomery County District court system. Luckily, this has not been a problem with Promenade shareholders as the delinquent amounts each month total less than 3% of the monthly fees charged.

Q: Why do I have to pay taxes?

A: Shareholders are only responsible for their portion of real estate taxes assessed the Corporation each year. The number of shares associated with each apartment determines the amount for which each shareholder is responsible. The Corporation pays other taxes such as Federal, State, etc.

Q: What is the difference between the Master Policy and Personal Insurance?

A: The Corporation's Master Insurance Policy is designed to protect the property of the Corporation and not the personal property of each shareholder.  Coverage under the building's plan includes structural repairs, construction, etc. as per the original plans and specifications.  For example, in a case of a fire, the Master Policy would cover the construction cost to return the apartment as it was at the time of conversion to a housing corporation.  This would include replacement appliances that were in the apartment in 1982, the parquet floor tiles, etc.  In addition, the Corporation's policy is designed to protect owners against liability claims arising from membership in the association.  For instance, if somebody slips and falls in a common area, the master policy will indemnify and defend all owners against a liability claim for bodily injury.

Owners need to purchase their own personal insurance for protection in cases where accidents or damage is reported within someone's apartment.  Individual insurance is also helpful in covering expenses for improvements in apartments beyond what the Master Policy includes, such as coverage for replacement wallpaper if damaged since the master policy would not include such enhancements.

Q: Why do I need insurance on my individual apartment?

A: The Corporation's Master policy does not include coverage on any personal property of owners or residents as it only covers the actual building systems and replacement.  Personal property such as carpeting and appliances purchased by the owner, window coverings, and all furniture, etc. are covered only under the owner's personal property insurance.  In cases where shareholders rent their apartments, their residents should obtain renter's insurance that is designed to cover the loss of their personal goods.

The Promenade documents require all shareholders to carry personal property insurance that will compliment the Master Policy.  In fact, the recommended coverage is a HO-6 policy that may be obtained from your insurance provider.  Additional information may be requested from the Administrative Office.

Q: What are the duties of the concierge/front desk?

A: The Concierge is on duty 24 hours a day. A courtesy phone is available for calls to building residents ONLY. There is a direct phone to summon a taxi and a pay phone available as well. Luggage carts, baskets and wheelchairs are available for 30-minute periods to Residents with their ID pass held as security. Courtesy keys to units are locked and secured and only available with proper authorization. Admit slips for guests or vendors must be submitted to the front desk. Keys to the Walking Path are available with ID. Individual mailboxes are located behind the Front Desk for notices, private messages and valet packing pick-up slips. Additional keys to your unit can be purchased at the front desk.

Q: How do I submit a maintenance request?

A: Residents may select one of several convenient ways. This website provides a maintenance work request form that can be completed by the resident and emailed to the Administrative Office. Residents should be aware that payment, if applicable, must be paid prior to the work being completed. Any request that is associated with a charge will be held, not completed, until the Administrative Office receives payment. Alternatively, a resident may also call or go to the Front Desk and inform the Concierge of the work being requested. The work, and note of any required payment, will then be entered into the Corporation’s database and a work request will be generated to the Maintenance Department. Most non-emergency requests are completed within 24 to 48 hours.

Note: Residents are not encouraged to provide private gratuities to Promenade employees. Residents may not here or engage an employee or contract employees of the Corporation for “private jobs” by offering or providing “gratuities” for services rendered.

If an EMERGENCY REPAIR (i.e., water leak) is required, call the front desk immediately at 301-530-7200.

Q: May I make alterations to my unit?

A: Structural alterations or changes to any unit must be approved in advance by the Board of Directors. Formal engineering plans for proposed alterations must be submitted in writing to the Building Engineer for final approval. Alterations made without approval are subject to review by the Board of Directors who will then take appropriate action.

Q: Are there rules regarding contractors working on the premises?

A: Contractors are required to register with the office and provide a certificate of insurance. They must acknowledge that they have read the Vendor/Contractor Rules and Regulations. Construction within a unit is limited to 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. ABSOLUTELY NO WORK IS ALLOWED ON SUNDAYS. All building materials and supplies must be properly unloaded and transported from the loading dock areas. Use of the service elevator is limited to (30) minutes. After unloading the vehicle must be relocated to the contractor parking lot located near the North Dock. Display the Contractor’s Pass, issued at the Gate, on the dashboard of your vehicle at all times while on the premises. DO NOT LEAVE TRASH OR DEBRIS IN THE HALLWAYS, STAIRWELLS OR ON THE LOADING DOCK AREAS.

Q: What do I do in case of an emergency?

A: In case of FIRE or life threatening emergency, call the Fire Department or 911.  If possible, pull the fire alarm in your hallway.  Do not assume that someone else has called.  If you do NOT view the fire or smoke and the Building Alarm has sounded, you must still evacuate the building, using the stairway exits on your floor to the main lobby.  DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS.  Disabled residents or others needing assistance should be registered with the Administrative Office for special assistance during any emergency situation.  If you are TRAPPED in your apartment, keep the door closed, seal off any cracks, and open the window or balcony door for air and signal for help.  The Fire Department has authorized procedures for evacuating you to safety.

In emergencies other that FIRE, call 911 for ambulance services, then notify the Concierge so that a security guard is available to assist and direct them to your unit.  Wheelchairs are available for emergency or non-emergency use.  See also Emergency Procedures from the main menu.

Q: What do I need to know about parking, the garages and operation of motor vehicles on Promenade property?

A: Automobile lights must be turned on prior to entering the garages.  Extreme caution is required upon entering the garages in order to avoid "blind spot" collisions.  Be certain to exercise the same extreme caution when exiting the garage area.  Never leave your vehicle unattended in a space which is NOT assigned to you, as this can result in a fine or towing.  It is strongly advised that vehicles be locked at all times.

Guests and visitors should be instructed to park in lots #1, #2, or #3.  Additional resident vehicles may also be parked in these lots.  Storage of unregistered vehicles in these lots is strictly forbidden and subject to towing from the premises.  Trailers, boats, etc., with the Board's approval, may be parked in lot #3.  Handicap spaces are available in lot #1.

The HORSESHOE parking area has handicap spaces and time-limited resident and visitor spaces.  An authorization pass for parking in the HORSESHOE is issued at the gatehouse and is placed on the dashboard of the vehicle.

Parking in the ARCADE area is reserved for handicap, commercial tenant and doctor visit use only.  Resident parking is permitted in accordance with the Promenade House Rules (available in the Resource Center).

Parking at the PROMENADE LOBBY entrance beneath the canopy is prohibited at all times.  Unattended cars left in this designated FIRE LANE are subject to ticketing and towing as well as a Maryland State fine of $250.00.

The speed limit on the Promenade grounds is 15 mph (5 mph in the garage).  Please drive carefully over speed bumps to avoid damage to your car.  Observe pedestrian cross walks and "full stop" signs.  Your guests should be prepared to tell the security guard at the entry gate the resident's name and unit number they will be visiting.  After 10:00 pm on weekday nights and 11:00 pm on weekends, visitors will be detained until the resident is contacted to verify their admittance unless the gatehouse has been previously notified of the guest's arrival.

Q: Is there a Promenade ID?

A: Each resident must be registered with the Administrative Office. A photograph will be taken and a personal identification pass issued which is used for entry to the health/pool area and tennis facilities as well to borrow carts from the front desk or request a key to be made. The Administrative Office also requires each resident to provide a home and business telephone number and an emergency contact person(s).

Q: Who can use the Pool and Health Club?

A: Pool/Health Club hours are posted at the entry to the area on the Arcade level. There are special regulations concerning the entry of children (under age 16) to pool facilities. Children must be accompanied by a parent, grandparent or legal guardian at all times and be properly signed in. All residents should acquaint themselves with the Promenade Pool and Health Club Rules and the Pool and Health Club User Code of Conduct. A designated “smoking area” at the outdoor pool is available; there is also a designated eating area. Persons acting boisterous or in a manner hazardous to the safety of others may be asked to leave at the discretion of the lifeguard. The lifeguards are responsible for the strict enforcement of pool regulations. They may request the assistance of security when necessary. Pool areas have handicapped-assisted lifts. Handicapped residents may request assistance from lifeguards.

Q: What about the Tennis Courts?

A: The Tennis Club is available to all residents and their guests with proper identification as stated above. All persons entering the tennis facilities must register and abide by all the posted rules and regulations. The tennis club has a schedule of special events and socials to which all residents are invited. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE A TENNIS PLAYER TO ATTEND SOCIALS AT THE TENNIS CLUB.

Q: What other amenities does the Promenade offer?

A: A Library, located on the Lobby level adjacent to the Community Room, is available to all residents. Books and periodicals may be borrowed and donations of same (other than textbooks) are gratefully accepted. The Library is maintained by a resident volunteer. No food or drink is allowed in the Library.

A Billiards Room on the Lobby level is also available for use by residents. It is located across from the back end of the on-site mail facility. Accessories are available at the Concierge for checkout with identification.

The Tennis Club House and Courts are open to members and their guests only. Tennis attire must be worn at all times. Singles play is limited to one hour; doubles play is limited to one and one half hours. Unlimited play will be available when no players are waiting.

A Putting Green is located next to the tennis courts on top of the hill across from the Arcade parking lot. Balls and putters are not provided.

Q: What about public areas?

A: In order to maintain appropriate and proper appearance for the Promenade, all residents and guests are prohibited from entering the Grand Lobby level in bare feet, swim trunks or suits, nightclothes or bathrobes. Large objects, furniture, maintenance materials, etc may not be moved through the Grand Lobby. Carts carrying luggage, clothing and vacation accessories are permitted. All residents are advised to purchase their own grocery carts to assist in transporting groceries, etc. from their vehicles to their units.

The Lobby Observation Deck is for the enjoyment of residents and guests. Eating, drinking or sunbathing on the Observation Deck is prohibited.

Picnicking and barbecue cooking is permitted ONLY in the special area assigned for this purpose. The picnic area is located just off the main roadway entrance before reaching the entry to parking lots 1, 2 and 3.

A walking path on the outdoor pool deck area is available for use by residents. If the access door is locked, you may request a key from the concierge.

Q: Are Pets allowed?

A: ALL PETS MUST BE REGISTERED. Pet owners are responsible for any damage caused by their pets. DOGS ARE NOT PERMITTED. ONLY ONE PET (CAT OR CAGED ANIMAL) IS PERMITTED PER APARTMENT. Pets may not be harbored for visiting purposes. Entry and exit for pets is through the South Arcade level.

Q: Are there any special provisions for handicap individuals?

A: Handicapped residents should register with the Administrative Office. The office maintains a file of special and individual needs in case of an emergency.

Q: Do I get cable TV in my unit?

A: Your apartment is wired to the building Master Antenna and Cable T.V. Basic and preferred cable service is included in the monthly coop fee. Premium services may be added and paid for by an individual. For Cable repair service residents should contact Comcast Cable directly at (301) 424-4400. There may be a fee to bring the Cable connector to your television. A list of local channels is available in the Administrative Office. For paid Cable service contact ComCast Cable at (301) 424-4400. There are forms available at the front desk that must be completed for scheduling repairs to the master antenna.

Q: How do I make a reservation for the Guest Quarters?

A: The Guest Quarters (located on the Arcade level across from the North tower elevators) sleeps four and includes a bedroom with a king-size bed and sleep sofa, a small kitchen and bathroom. The rental rate is $75 per night and is available for rental by RESIDENTS. Reservations are coordinated through the Administrative Office.

Q: How do I reserve the Community Room?

A: The Community Room (located on the Lobby level off the hallway to the North tower) is available for rental to RESIDENTS at a fee of $25 per event.  The room has a capacity of 25 people and is available from 10:00 am to midnight.  A $150 deposit is required, please contact the Admin Office.  No food is permitted in the Community Room.

Q: Is there storage available in the building?

A: Storage Bins are available for rental by RESIDENTS on a limited basis. There are various sizes and the cost is contingent upon the size. Please check with the Administrative Office if you require additional storage space. Industrial and flammable materials MAY NOT be stored in storage bins. Your individual bin should be secured with your own private lock. Owners of abandoned bins (unpaid locker leases) will be notified prior to locks being cut and disposal of contents. Bins are not transferable and remain the property of the Promenade.

Two bike storage areas are available for residents. A key deposit of $20 is required.

Q: Does public transportation serve the Promenade?

A: Public transportation via RIDE-ON buses available on a scheduled basis directly from the Front Lobby Entrance of the Promenade Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM until 7:30 PM. The buses alternate between two destinations, Bethesda Metro Station and the Medical Center (NIH). A printed schedule is available at the front desk. Riders are required to have the exact fares. This convenient public transportation gives all residents an excellent opportunity to access and use the Washington, DC Metro System. For current information on the Metro and Ride On system, the Department of Transportation can be contacted via toll free number at 1-800-732-3327 or at rideonbus.com.

There is a direct telephone line to private taxi services at the front desk. There is also information pertaining to limousine services to National, Dulles and BWI airports available at the front desk. .

Q: What do I need to know about trash pick-up?

A: Located near the elevators on each floor is a service area that includes the trash chute and recycling area, laundry machines and freight elevator.

Trash should be properly bagged and the bag tied closed before depositing in the trash chute. DO NOT PLACE YOUR TRASH ON THE FLOOR UNDER THE CHUTE. Be careful not to allow leakage from your trash down the hallway to the trash room or inside the service area. DO NOT LEAVE LARGE ITEMS FOR DISPOSAL IN THE TRASH ROOM. RESIDENTS MUST MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO DISPOSE OF THESE ITEMS AND HAVE THEM REMOVED FROM THE PROPERTY.

WARNING: NEVER PLACE FLAMABLES, PAINT OR CONSTRUCTION DEBRIS INTO THE TRASH CHUTE.

Q: About Recycling?

A: Recyclables should be deposited in the appropriate bins. One is designated for newspapers only and the other for glass, plastics, and metals. Wash all containers prior to placement in the recycling bin. This is done in accordance with Montgomery County Regulations.

.

Q: About the laundry rooms?

A: Washers and dryers are available in the laundry room on each floor. (An over-sized washer and dryer are located in the service area of the south tower loading dock, keys may be obtained at the Front Desk.) All machines are operated by means of cards that can be purchased at the add-value machines at the south end of the Post Office in the lobby and just outside the grocery/deli on the arcade level. Initial purchase is $10: $3 for the card and $7 worth of services. As service value is used up, the same card is used at the add-value machine to acquire $5, $10, $20 of additional service value. (Machines do not accept $1 bills.)

Each wash costs $1, and dryers provide 50 minutes of drying time for $.50. Please follow the instructions provided exactly: do not remove your card from the washer or dryer until the machine display reads “Pull Card.”

CAUTION: The front load washers require only HALF the detergent specified on the detergent package and will not rinse or wring properly if too much is used. High efficiency detergent is recommended.

TOP LOADER CAUTION: In delicate and permanent press cycles, these machines pause at intervals to permit garments to soak.

In case of trouble: review the instructions and be sure all steps have been followed. If you think the machine is malfunctioning, move your clothes to another machine, place an available magnetic “out-of-order” sign on the machine and call the Administrative Office to report the problem. (After office-hours, leave a detailed message, including you unit # and daytime telephone number on the Voice Mail.) The office will arrange to have the machine checked and will call the Maytag technician, if required. Should the machine prove faulty, value equal to that which you lost will be added to your card in the Administrative Office.

Finally, remember that this is shared space. Note the time that it will take to finish your load and retrieve your laundry promptly. Neighbors may move your laundry to the folding tables if they have to wait too long. Clean lint filters EVERY TIME you use the dryer. Do not operate the dryer without the lint filter. If your wash has left unusual lint or debris in the machine, bring a damp rag and wipe it out. Please place all trash in the receptacle provided.

Q: Are there planned social activities at The Promenade?

A: The Promenade offers a wide range of Social and Athletic activities that are available to all Residents and their approved guests. The purpose of these activities is to unite all Residents in a cohesive community, while fulfilling their wishes for stimulating social and athletic programs. To accomplish these goals there are several committees chaired by residents including, the Pool and Health, Tennis, Property and Administration, Covenants, and Social Committees. The social committee sponsors a movie each month in the Party Room. There is also a New Years Eve party and a pool opening party in the summer. There is also a book club and a garden club. To join a committee or participate in any of these or other activities you may contact the committee chairpersons or the Administrative Office.

Q: What about security?

A: The security gatehouse at the entrance to the property is manned 24/7. A security guard patrols the building and grounds on an on-going basis. The concierge at the front desk should be contacted for security-related matters such as violation of House Rules or need of assistance. Security personnel are authorized to give parking citations to vehicles illegally parked on the property. Escort service to and from vehicles is available upon request. The concierge will arrange for a security guard to escort you to or from you vehicle.

It is advisable to double lock your apartment door while inside or when leaving your apartment.

Q: What are the procedures for selling or leasing my unit?

A: The resale and/or Lease of your unit can only be done with the approval of the Administrative Office and the Board of Directors. A packet of instructions concerning resale and leasing is available at the front desk or in the Administrative Office. All permanent Residents in each unit must be registered in the Administrative Office and are limited by unit size. You are required to reside in your unit for a period of one calendar year before you may lease the unit.

Q: What are the rules regarding move-in/move-out?

A: All moves (both in and out) are required to be registered with the Administrative Office by advance reservation for use of the freight elevator. The House Rules outline the resident and shareholder responsibilities during moves. The movement of household furniture, etc. through the Lobby and Arcade level is prohibited. Shareholders are financially responsible for any “unauthorized” moves into or out of the Promenade and for identifiable damage to Promenade property. The Administrative Office provides residents with procedures for deposits, clean-up and permitted hours for use of the freight elevator and loading dock.

These rules also apply to delivery or disposal of household items. DO NOT LEAVE TRASH, DEBRIS, OR FURNITURE IN THE HALLWAYS, STAIRWAYS, OR ON THE LOADING DOCK AREAS.