Renter/reader’s condominium repairs made after pressing issue with HOA

A few weeks ago, I received a response from a reader who took my advice on trying to get her homeowners association to fix the shaky railing and bulging floor deck outside her condo, which she was renting.

I recognized that the association was spending resources on getting its pool in shape for the summer and up to Southern Nevada Health District codes, and tackling a plumbing problem.

I suggested she contact the local governmental housing code enforcement agency, the state ombudsman’s office and association’s insurance agent.

Here is her response:

“Thank you for the letter of response to my question. I was pleased that it was also published in Sunday’s Real Estate section, April 29, as it may help others who deal with similar problems.

As you suggested, I did contact the local housing code enforcement agency, which informed me it could send an inspector to the property; if violations were found, the owner had 10 days to make the repairs.

If the repairs were not made there would be a daily fine to the owner until all violations were complied with. I was told I could have the repairs made and then submit my bills to the HOA/management for reimbursement. The repairs must be done by a licensed contractor.

I also contacted the insurance agent for the association and was told they could do nothing until there was an incident due to the violation. Then a claim could be made for damages.

They did, however, tell me they could contact the HOA/management and advise them of my concerns.

An ombudsman intervention affidavit was mailed to the state Department of Business & Industry, Real Estate Division regarding the need for repairs. That correspondence indicated it could possibly take six months before anything could be done. As a last resort I called the vice president of the HOA and advised the members of all the things I had done, including my letter to you.

I was told there had been a change in the board members and my concerns immediately would be addressed.

I am happy to report that the detached and loose stair railings have finally been repaired and other issues will be taken care of in a timely fashion.

Unfortunately, it took all of the above to get some action.”

Barbara Holland, certified property manager, is president and owner of H&L Realty and Management Co. She is a member of the Institute of Real Estate Management and is the author of two books on the subject. Holland is a past president of the Greater Las Vegas Association of Realtors. Questions may be sent to Association Q. & A., P.O. Box 7440, Las Vegas, NV 89125. Her fax number is 385-3759. Questions might be edited for spelling and grammar.