We were just issued a $15,000 per unit special assessment to fix dry rot. Couldn’t it be argued that a property manager was neglectful in annual inspections that could’ve identified and treated the issue years ago?
Dry rot of what? Condo, townhouse, etc? How many units are there?
$15K seems really high for a special assessment, no matter what it’s for.
Does the property management’s contract with the HOA Board include language about annual inspections and what they are supposed to look for?
Dry Rot on the stairs and landings of 3 buildings, 12 units per building. So basically they’re tearing out the stairs and 2nd floor walkways on all 3 buildings and starting over.
I’ll have to see what I can dig up regarding the property manager’s responsibilities as outlined in whatever agreement the board has… thanks for the tip.
I feel like it’s next to impossible to argue anything in situations like this anyway, but $15k is a helluva lot of money and I’m a little distressed :mad:
Stairs and landings are often covered with treads, rubber matting or indoor/outdoor carpet, which would effectively hide rot. Also, I’m doubting that it’s dry rot (a fungus), unless this is a covered area. If the rot is from rain, it’s wet rot. Not knowing what your home owner’s agreement says as to covenants, conditions and restrictions, it would be impossible for anybody here to give you decent advice.
Wow, so 12 units X 15,000 is $180,000 per building to replace the stairs and landings? I’d first of all check with the Board and Property Manager and ask to see the RFP and quotes they got for the work - you’re entitled to it as an owner.
Does your association have any money in a reserve account? They should keep money on hand for large capital projects, though its entirely possible this snuck up on them.
How long do they give you to pay?
You might be stuck, but either way someone - board, management, etc, screwed up by letting this become a sudden issue and not planned for. May want to run for the board next election!