R.H. from outside of Connecticut writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
The condo I live in is my primary residence. After being handed an assessment fee of 5k (which I have paid) to make repairs to two of the building’s entryways (stairs/access). I’ve been informed by email I have to move out during construction due to the nature of the work. They “think” we will have to be out two weeks. There is no wording in the Condo rules and Regulations about a situation such as this. There is also no mention of compensation of any kind. Where do I stand? Can I tell them they will need to evict me?
Mister Condo replies:
R.H., this is a damned if you do and damned if you don’t situation. The work needs to be done and the building will likely he uninhabitable for safety reasons while the work is being done. Typically, your homeowners’ insurance policy would be the first place to look for remuneration in such a case if you have coverage that includes loss of use of dwelling. Many policies do cover this. If you refuse to leave and force them to evict you, the work will be delayed and I am certain that the association would also seek further damages from you for causing the work delay. Other than that, you may simply have to vacate the unit and stay elsewhere until the building is cleared for occupancy. I wish I had better news for you, R.H., but older buildings require maintenance. It is rare that this maintenance forces an evacuation of the building but, when it does, unit owners would be wise to do as they are told and get out so the work can be done. After all, at the end of the day, it is making your home more valuable by protecting the common element that allows you access and egress. Good luck!