Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

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

Living in townhomes can present unique challenges when it comes to wind mitigation, especially in areas prone to high winds and storms. This week we are including some stories about how keeping Wind Mitigation features up to date is vital for the whole complex, not just the individual townhome. Shared Roof Damage in a Townhome Complex A group of townhomes with inadequate wind mitigation suffered extensive roof damage during a hurricane. Since townhomes often share walls and roof structures, the damage was not confined to just one unit but affected several homes in the complex, leading to complex insurance claims and disputes among homeowners. Increased Insurance Premiums for the Entire Complex In a townhome community, several owners neglected to upgrade their wind mitigation features. As a result, the entire complex faced higher insurance premiums. Insurance companies often assess risk based on the overall condition of a complex, and the lack of adequate wind mitigation in several unit