Query: I dwell in a co-op in Passaic County, NJ the place the board lately licensed the substitute of all balcony railings in our constructing. Was this a security challenge? A beauty repair? Nobody appears to know and the board is just not offering extra info. The work was anticipated to final three months, however seven months have handed and the work remains to be ongoing. We dwell with loud building noise, mud and dust in our blocks and the board mentioned our upkeep costs are going up. What can we do to drive the board to offer us extra info and get the job finished? Do we now have to pay upkeep charges whilst you work?
A: The board ought to share the aim of the undertaking so that you just and your neighbors aren’t left at the hours of darkness.
Condominium associations should present householders with a report of all earnings and bills. New Jersey regulation requires that these data be saved in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (or GAAP), and that they be open for inspection by householders. Examine your affiliation’s governing paperwork for extra info. You must normally be capable to see the signed contract for the work, if not the day by day work studies.
In fact, sustaining secure balcony railings, particularly in high-rise buildings, is extraordinarily vital. In 2024 New Jersey adopted a structural integrity and reserve lawwhich requires condominiums with sure kinds of buildings, reminiscent of balconies, to be inspected by a structural engineer.
“The handrails are a important security element, and if the board moderately believed their substitute was vital, it will be troublesome to argue,” mentioned J. David Ramsey, chair of the New Jersey neighborhood affiliation apply group at Becker & Poliakoff, in Morristown, New Jersey
Development delays may cause inconvenience to constructing occupants, however are sadly frequent. No matter occurs, do not deduct any upkeep charges. “New Jersey case regulation makes it abundantly clear that upkeep charges can’t be withheld for any motive,” mentioned Christopher Lugara, an legal professional who practices condominium regulation with Hill Wallack in Princeton, New Jersey.
Your constructing wants these charges to function. Withholding them may immediate your affiliation to take motion towards you, reminiscent of levying late charges, launching assortment efforts, inserting a lien in your property or submitting a grievance concerning the cash you owe, Mr. Lugara mentioned.
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