Clubhouse Rental Use Denied to Condo Renter

S.F. from Fairfield County, Connecticut writes:

Dear Mister Condo,

I am a renter in a town house community. I want to rent out the clubhouse for my children’s birthday party. The management company told me renters are not allowed to rent out the clubhouse. Is that legal? My rent goes to paying the condo fees so why would I be barred from any of the amenities? This seems like discrimination. Thanks!

Mister Condo replies:

S.F., it is unfortunate that you are being denied rental of your community’s clubhouse for something as endearing as your child’s birthday. The management company is simply enforcing the rules of the association as is their obligation. Your real bone of contention is with the association and its governing documents. I do not believe it is discriminatory for a community to limit rental to owners only as rental of the clubhouse is one of the benefits of being a unit owner within the community. You may be able to ask your landlord to rent the clubhouse on your behalf. From what you have told me, as the owner of the unit you lease, the landlord has the right to rent the clubhouse. If you truly feel you have been discriminated against, you should contact an attorney. My guess is that the governing documents of the association would be found perfectly legal but it might not hurt to get a legal opinion for your own peace of mind. Happy Birthday to your child and good luck!