P.K. from Broward County, Florida writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
What factors are considered with an in-kind window replacement in a single-family home condominium association with 63 individual homes.
Mister Condo replies:
P.K., without seeing your governing documents first-hand, I will tell you that just about every condominium I have known handles their window replacements a little differently. Some are incredibly strict. Others are much laxer and allow the unit owner more flexibility. The bottom line is that you need to review the procedures in place for your condominium BEFORE you purchase and make plans to replace your windows. Typically, I would advise you to ask which vendors, if any, have already successfully installed replacement windows at your condominium. These vendors have already been through the vetting process and proposed windows that were acceptable to the Board. The Board is the final say on architectural compliance issues such as windows so it is best to work closely with them and provide all they require to approve your project. This typically includes manufacturer drawing or specs on the windows, insurance requirements for the installer, and even licensing where required. You may also need building permits for the project. Work with your Board and develop a strategy that satisfies their definition of “in-kind” so to avoid disappointment for yourself and the community. Good luck!