HOA Vs. Condo Owner Repairs: Who's Responsible For What? - Hales Property Management

Abstract

One of the main perks is knowing that a portion of the upkeep will be taken care of by the HOA. But what portion exactly? Understanding what your responsibility is as a condo owner when it comes to maintenance and what will be covered by your HOA is important and will make your life easier. Some condo owners may also be responsible for something called limited common elements. The HOA is Responsible for: Again, pending your Association's governing documents, HOA's are generally responsible for: All Common Elements The HOA needs to maintain, repair, and replace all physical assets designated as common elements in the governing documents whether located inside or outside the units. These include gas, sewer, water, telecommunication and electrical systems from their source to the entry point into your condo unit. You can assume your HOA will maintain or repair: The structure of the condo Trails, walkways, and sidewalks Exterior lighting Pools, hot tubs, and other amenities that are shared Clubhouses or association office buildings The condo roof, including gutters, shingles, and underlayment The condo exterior including siding or other exterior treatments Owners are Responsible For: The Unit Meaning a portion of the condominium designated for separate ownership or occupancy. Limited Common Elements Meaning any air conditioning or heating units, chute, flue, duct, wire, conduit, bearing wall, bearing column, other fixture, whether located within or outside of the boundaries of a condo, which serve only that single unit. Any shutters, awnings, window boxes, doorsteps, stoops, porches, decks, balconies, entryways, patios, exterior doors, and windows, other fixtures designed to serve a single unit, but located outside its boundaries are limited common elements allocated exclusively to that unit and are also a responsibility of the owner.