15 Years in the Wrong Condo Parking Space?

S.M. from New Haven County writes:

Dear Mister Condo,

What should I do if I am forced to move my car because of a misprint on the Association’s file regarding my assigned parking space? I’ve been parking in the same assigned spot for about fifteen years. Recently, I was told that I have to move to the next space over, which happens to be used by my neighbor, who is also a friend. I have told her about this parking issue. She said it is ridiculous because the spot they are referring to is her parking space. Tonight, I was told by another association member that we can share a space with her until we figure out what to do. I find it all unfair as well as unlawful to my rights. Can you give me some advice of what to do about this mind-boggling issue?

Mister Condo replies:

S.M., well that is a mind-boggling issue to say the least! I am not aware of any statute of limitations for a condo association to enforce car parking rules but fifteen years is a very long time for the association to not comment about the parking arrangement and then take action that effects several unit owners. As usual, you need to start with your purchase and sale agreement and see what it says about your assigned parking. My guess is that it states you are assigned one or two parking spaces for your exclusive use. If you have a garage this may be the space in front of your garage. If there is just a parking lot, it is probably the numbered and assigned spot(s). If there is a misprint on any documentation you certainly have the right to challenge it. Of course, this could turn into a big brouhaha about nothing. May I ask what brought this about? Did someone question the parking arrangement after fifteen years? Have you seen the misprint and are sure it was a misprint and not just a long-term misunderstanding of where your and your neighbor’s assigned parking spaces are? I’d hate to see you have to spend money on an attorney to protect yourself here but if the Board is going to insist on making you change parking spaces over a misprint and you and your neighbor feel they are wrong to do so then you may wish to consult with an attorney just to make sure you don’t have legal recourse. I’d also ask the attorney if you can sue for the attorney’s cost if it comes to a lawsuit. I hope it doesn’t come to that. All the best!