T.S. from Cape May, New Jersey writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
My HOA is responsible for exterior doors including patio sliders. All the property’s sliders are the original contractor grade, being 21 years old. Nine units are ocean front, the remaining 10 are not. My slider is the first to require replacement (the glass seal failed). Since we are ocean front, I want to upgrade to a hurricane-rated slider. Who is responsible to pay for the upgrade, the HOA or me? Should I pay the difference between a contractor grade replacement and hurricane-grade upgrade? Thank you for your help!
Mister Condo replies:
T.S., it sounds like you have a lovely ocean front condo. If the HOA is responsible for the slider door replacement, the replacement would be at their discretion. Technically, you don’t have a say in the matter as it is an association-owned element according to your description. You may be able to negotiate an agreement with the Board to upgrade the replacement at your expense but if the sliders are owned by the HOA and maintained by the HOA, it is their choice how and when to replace the slider. All the best!
Local regulations may require hurricane grade for replacement.