Remodeling any living space can be just as stressful as it is exciting. However, there are marked differences between home improvement projects in a single-family home versus a condo unit. If this is your first time doing this type of project, there are limitations and rules you may have yet to consider or experience if your previous remodel was a stand-alone house.
As a condominium dweller, you enjoy benefits such as less exterior maintenance like mowing the grass or painting. You can exclusively use amenities like a well-maintained pool, hot tub or fitness centers. Condo living also puts you close to other people, which is excellent for security and socializing but adds a layer of responsibility when it’s time for home improvement projects. Remember, unlike a single-family home, things like plumbing and electricity in a highrise are considered community property and shutting yours off may affect your neighbors.
Will HOA Rules Affect My Condo Remodel?
Before starting a remodel in your condo or apartment, you must check with your homeowner’s association (HOA). Even though you own your space, the association still controls or limits the work you can do within your home. Your community is governed by a legally binding document called Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs). During your purchase, you likely signed the CC & R with little thought of having to refer to it in the future. Now that you want to remodel your kitchen or update your flooring, you must check with your HOA before starting any work. Some CC&Rs limit or prevent specific changes affecting your neighbors, such as flooring, due to sound-dampening requirements.
In addition to county or city permits and inspections, you are subject to HOA inspections, which will extend your timeline. All CC&Rs contain language laying out what is permitted and what is not. Obtain a document copy so you and your contractor can plan accordingly. Here are a few points that your CC&R may cover:
- Flooring material selection
- Elements shared with other homeowners (walls, electricity or plumbing)
- Protection of common areas while bringing materials and tools in and out of your building
- Prohibit construction during certain hours
- Specifies contractor and worker parking
- Water use restrictions
- Trash and construction material removal or dumping
- Floor plan changes
- Window and door replacements
Talk to Your Condominium Neighbors
Living in a community building means being courteous and letting your neighbors know you are planning a home remodeling project. Every aspect of your project, noise, dust and rumbles, can affect everyone’s daily life. Keeping your neighbors in the loop about how long the project is expected to take and what work is scheduled next will help them plan accordingly. This is also a great time to ask your neighbors about their remodeling experiences and if they have any contractor recommendations. Remember to thank them for their patience once your renovation is wrapped up.
Choose the Right Contractor for Your Luxury Condo Makeover
You already know that living in a building and having an HOA brings unique challenges to your remodeling project. Finding a contractor well-versed in construction and remodeling in condominiums will save you from significant headaches like HOA fines for violating the CC&R. Your contractor will handle all municipal permitting and the HOA approval process. They’ll provide required documents like materials lists, schedules, licenses, proof of insurance and drawings. An experienced contractor easily navigates these unique requirements and understands that this affects the project timeline.
CMetric Construction is Palm Beach County’s go-to contractor when upgrading your luxury condo or apartment. We’ll handle all county permitting and HOA approval requirements on your behalf. Our experience in remodeling and renovating South Florida condos, villas and apartments minimizes your stress and ensures your project is completed within the scope of the HOA rules.