For those who
live in condos and are looking to make aging-in-place renovations, there are
special considerations to be taken into account when planning a project. For any
renovation that would require a permit, the condo association must grant approval. The documentation required for review varies
according to each association, but usually includes a description of your
project, associated drawings or plans, and information on your contractor,
including certificates of insurance. Your
first step then is to find out about the approval process either through the condo association
directly or via the management company of the building. They not only can supply you with a list of submittals
required and rules for renovation, but also the dates when the association
meets for plan review. From my
experience, the most stringent requirements imposed by condo associations have
to do with restricted work hours. Their
biggest concern is that your neighbors are not inconvenienced by the work being
done in your home. Many condo
associations also impose additional restrictions on the contractor, such as
what entrance and elevators can be used, where parking is allowed, procedures
for debris removal, areas for material storage, etc. Make sure you give this information to any contractor
pricing your job. It’s important they
understand the restrictions so as to be able to set up an orderly approach (and
realistic costs) for your renovation. It makes
common sense that it may be difficult to obtain approval for any structural changes to your condo considering that your condo is only one unit tied to the
structure of an entire building. Often there are hidden utilities behind walls and over ceilings that feed
other units. Even if approved, structural changes may be prohibitive when compared to similar renovations to a single
family home. Keep in mind
that each association is different in their requirements so do not rely on
assumptions from a contractor or be intimated by stories from friends living in
other locations. And while it
may seem like an additional burden and a frustrating delay to have to go through your association’s
approval process, if you understand an association’s requirements before committing to a remodeling project, you’ll save yourself both time and money in the long
run.  Susan Luxenberg President HomeSmart LLC |
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