Condo living definitely comes with excellent perks, such as not having to mow the grass and having amenities like a heated pool. It also comes with challenges when condo owners are ready to update their space, including replacing windows and doors. Owners are required to obtain permission from the Homeowners Association (HOA) before making any significant changes governed by the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs). CC&Rs are a legal document that regulates “common interest” communities such as condominiums, townhouses and apartment complexes.
Updating Windows On My Condo
With many Florida residents concerned about energy efficiency and hurricane safety, wanting to update your existing condo windows to impact is not unusual. However, when a condo unit is bought, you are purchasing the private living space and an interest in shared spaces. Joint or shared elements include the walls between units, balconies and utilities.
Typically, both the HOA and the owners pay the maintenance cost of these common areas. Who is responsible for maintenance or replacement can become confusing when an HOA further classifies these spaces as exclusive, general or limited. How your specific condo association classifies these areas will determine if you, as the owner, are allowed to replace windows. In order for an owner to receive approval from their HOA to upgrade their windows, they must be considered part of the individual unit rather than part of the whole building.
HOA Approvals for Condo Window Replacement
If the language in the Declaration determines that unit owners are responsible for window and door replacement, you will still require written approval from the HOA. This includes your front entrance door, windows and any sliding glass doors. Remember, your condo association will have regulations regarding the impact windows and doors you choose. To maintain a consistent look, they may only approve a particular color and style as well as mandate the use of a specific product or manufacturer.
Ask the HOA if your contractor is approved to work in your building or request a list of approved companies. Contractors and employees must adhere to the association’s rules, such as days and hours they may work, where they can park, how to dispose of materials and even which elevator and entrance they may use. Your HOA will require you or your contractor to submit plans, material lists and municipal building permits as part of their process.
Choose an HOA-Approved Vendor for Condominium Window Replacement
As part of the approval process for your impact window installation, you’ll need to choose an approved contractor. Before hiring a company, finding out if they can work in your building is essential. Most HOAs can provide a list of approved vendors they have worked with and trust to follow their rules and complete quality work.
Condo Window Replacement Company in South Florida
CMetric Construction has completed remodels, renovations and impact window installations in condominiums throughout Palm Beach County. They are an approved vendor for many developments based on their ability to adhere to all condo rules and deliver top-quality craftsmanship within the agreed timeline. If CMetric Construction has not yet worked with your association, we are confident that our experience, reputation and reliability will help grant us a spot on their approved vendor list. Don’t hesitate to contact us for your impact window replacement in your condo, townhome or apartment.