The Challenge of Locating Roof Permits in HOA-Managed Townhomes and Condos

One of the more nuanced challenges we face involves dealing with townhomes and condominiums managed by homeowners associations (HOAs). Specifically, locating roof permits for these properties can be particularly difficult due to the complexities of ownership and responsibility. Here’s an explanation of why this issue arises and how it affects our inspection processes.


Complex Ownership Structures

In properties with an HOA, the lines of ownership—especially regarding common elements like roofs—are not always clear. Typically, in condominiums, the HOA owns all the common areas collectively, which includes the building exteriors and roofs. Townhomes might share some of these characteristics, depending on the specifics of the property and its governing documents.

Why Roof Permits Are Important

Roof permits are critical documents that confirm a roof's compliance with local building codes and standards. They are indicative of proper installation and maintenance practices, and they ensure that any work done on the roof meets safety regulations. For homeowners and potential buyers, these permits are a reassurance of the property’s integrity and compliance with local laws.


Challenges in Locating Roof Permits

  1. Shared Responsibility: In the context of an HOA, since the association is typically responsible for maintenance and repairs of the roof, the permits are also managed by the HOA. This can lead to difficulties in access to permits as individual homeowners may not have direct control over these documents and looking them up through city or county appraisal districts means needing to know the entity who owns the permit, whether it be the HOA, a property management company, or an investment firm. 

  2. HOA Management: The efficiency and organization of an HOA can vary significantly. Changes in property management or board members can further complicate the continuity of documentation with the appraisal districts.


For inspection companies, this means we cannot directly obtain the documents as easily as we would from a homeowner in a non-HOA managed property. We need to go through the appraisal district covering the area in which this property is located. With changes in HOA ownership, changes in property management companies, and changes in designation of some Townhomes to Condos, it now falls to Realtors to track down current permit information for these properties as determining which entity has the permit becomes its own maze to navigate in order to get a clear understanding of the permit status for the property.


Bottom Line

The difficulty in accessing roof permits in HOA-managed townhomes and condos is a significant hurdle. Knowing the roofs physical condition and access to current permits are essential for confirming compliance with codes.


We’re Here To Help

Feel free to call us if you have questions at 407-319-4608. You may also schedule your inspection or find additional information on our website.


*Image from Shutterstock