When a Michigan resident decides to buy a condominium, there are great benefits to the purchase. That includes flexibility and a community-minded place to live where everyone takes part in maintenance, has certain amenities and there are aspects of the residence that are inclusive. Still, people should be aware of the requirements they must adhere to when buying. The condominium association laws can be complicated. There are bylaws that developments will have in place and owners are required to follow them. From the viewpoint of the association, it is important to make sure the bylaws are clear.
What will be in the bylaws?
Owners are required to pay certain fees as owners in the development. That includes maintenance fees and its assessments. Some bylaws have limits on monthly fees that must be paid. If there are no limits, the association can determine the amount as it sees fit. Disputes can arise over this and the association should be legally protected. When there are common elements such as a parking area or road, the owners are responsible for paying a portion of it. This too will be determined by the association. Assessments can have restrictions. If there is not a restriction, the association can decide on this amount. People who do not pay what they owe could eventually have a lien put on their property.
Often, people want to make improvements to their residence. That could require approval from the association and other owners. People who move forward with repairs without approval could be confronted with legal action. An association that is facing this challenge must know what legal remedies are available. Some associations have rules that regulate issues like pets, renting the property to another person, what can be displayed outside and more. These should be detailed in the bylaws to avoid confusion. Factors that will cause a material impact on co-owners will make a vote necessary to approve or disapprove it. The bylaws also say who can attend association meetings.
Legal assistance can be helpful to condominium associations
Any problem with a condominium association is often seen from the perspective of an owner of a unit and how they are dealing with supposedly onerous requirements based on the bylaws. However, these bylaws are in place to make certain that everyone follows to the rules and protect unit owners. Having legal help with amending, drafting, updating and ensuring the adherence to bylaws can be crucial and having legal advice may be key. A firm with experience in homeowner association law and condominium association law should be contacted for guidance and representation.