Inium is a Latin word that means "Owning property together." That's what it is like when someone buys a condo unit. They have an "interest" in the land beneath the building, but the building's association owns the actual land.
Often depends on the condo board, but my board for example requires that anyone doing renovations needs to have WSIB and commercial insurance. We also need to submit a proposal to the condo corp with the full details about what exactly is being renovated, and provide a sample of the new materials proposed to be used.
Additionally, condo owners often don't own the land their unit is built on—they lease it from the condo association—which can lead to different restrictions regarding renovations or modifications.
Condo Ownership When you buy a condo, you own the interior of the unit. Unlike an apartment, where you need the landlord's permission to make changes, you can do whatever you like to the interior of your unit. You're also responsible for interior repairs and maintenance.
Generally, a condo owner in California is responsible for the interior of their unit. The Condo Association (or HOA), is responsible for shared areas and the structure of the building.
Owning a Condo Is Just Like Owning a House So while you have the right to make changes to your unit, you won't have quite as much freedom as you would with a house. You may not have the option of making changes to the plumbing or electrical by yourself, as most condo rules require the use of a qualified professional.
Many HOAs maintain a website where governing documents are posted. To find HOA rules and regulations online: Navigate to the HOA's official website. Look for sections labeled “Documents,” “Governing Documents,” or “Rules and Regulations.”
Once you buy a home that's part of an HOA, you automatically become a member of the HOA. HOA rules are legally binding, and you must adhere to all rules and regulations in the governing document. Yes, there are bylaws that you may not like, but there are no HOA loopholes.
Many HOAs maintain a website where governing documents are posted. To find HOA rules and regulations online: Navigate to the HOA's official website. Look for sections labeled “Documents,” “Governing Documents,” or “Rules and Regulations.”
What are unenforceable HOA rules? Keep you out of court. Hush up litigation. Discriminate indiscriminately. Enter your home without cause or notice. String you out on the (clothes)line. Fine you for fun. Change rules on the fly. Demand you take down your dish.