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EllenS1 (Florida)
Posts: 1,148
Posted:
I live in a townhome where the next unit is attached to mine. The owner rents out this unit and the renters have told me they have had roof leaks for some time. The owner has done interior renovations for a new tenant but has ignored the leak. I am concerned because I recently found out that another owner had mold in their unit and I am afraid that I may have this problem if the next door owner does not take care of the leak in her roof. Last year I replaced my roof and it's apparent that since these units are all the same age most need to be replaced. Our docs say homeowners are responsible for maintenance of their units and the HOA for lawn care, etc.

I thought a letter from me and the other adjoining unit (who is hardly ever here) write a joint letter letting her know of our concerns. We can do this but since she has been non-compliant on other issues I doubt it will accomplish anything. Any dieas?
MaryA1 (Arizona)
Posts: 7,043
Posted:
Ellen,

You can write a letter to anyone telling them just about anything you like. Whether they respond to your letter is another matter. However, worst case scenario, the roof leak does cause mold damage you will have proof you alerted the h/o to the possibility of that problem. But, b/4 writing that letter you may want to speak to the tenant and ask if they have informed the owner of the roof leaks. If so, what did the owner say he was going to do?

EllenS1 (Florida)
Posts: 1,148
Posted:
The tenant who just moved out spoke to the owner about it more than once and nothing has been done. So I guess we'll go with the letter. I may also inform the new tenant about the leak if I see them before they move in.
DonnaS (Tennessee)
Posts: 5,671
Posted:

Ellen,

Does the Association have any financial responsibilities of the roofs such as repair or otherwise? How about the supporting structure, such as rafters, etc? Notification to the association should be done because this is a shared structure and they may have some control or at least they can send a letter to the owner. My villa documents state that the Board can require repair of any shared elements, including roofs so you might have a simple little paragraph in your docs which will allow the Board to get involved.
EllenS1 (Florida)
Posts: 1,148
Posted:
Thanks Donna,

No the assn has no responsibility in this regard but I do recall something about shared walls, etc. I'll dig out the docs tonight and see what we can do. Good idea and thanks again.
KirkW1 (Texas)
Posts: 1,665
Posted:
You may want to check with a real estate attorney as you may be able to demand the other portion of roof be fixed. I would think that would get at least the same level of protection as fences. And in many places you can send the bill for half a fence repair/replacement to the owner on the other side with or without consent.

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