QUESTION: What if a homeowner installed a washing machine without a building permit or HOA approval? Our condo was built in 1954. Our board would like to prohibit use of the illegally installed washing machine but the owner will not comply.

ANSWER: After a hearing, the board can levy daily fines against the owner until he removes the clothes washer. If he continues to ignore the association, the board can go into court to have it removed. It is only a matter of time before the washing machine causes a flood. If the board does nothing and neighbors are damaged by a flood from the washer, the association could be sued for knowingly allowing the violation to continue.

Authorized Installation. Washers and dryers can be installed in units if done properly. However, retrofitting the unit can be expensive.

ASSISTANCE: Contact us for a review of your association's CC&R damage, mitigation and reimbursement policies.