Party Walls

Party Walls are the walls that fall on the property line between two adjoining units. While they form the backbone of privacy for townhome and duplex dwellers, they also require cooperation between neighbors to maintain. Except for specific circumstances as outlined in the CSHOA Declaration, the cost of reasonable repair and maintenance of a party wall is shared by the owners who use the wall in proportion to that use. Thus, HOA residents with party walls need to work closely with their neighbor at the outset of any construction project involving a party wall to be sure that there is a clear understanding of, and agreement on, what the project entails. And while we can’t tell you how you should communicate with a neighbor, there are questions any savvy homeowner should ask when working with a contractor or neighbor. Questions like, but not limited to — What will be done? What materials will be used? Who is paying for what? Who is doing the work? Are they licensed and bonded? When will work start? When will work end? What is the process if something unexpected happens (termites, contractor breaks something, etc.)? Do you have home owners insurance? — come to mind. And you can probably think of many more good questions to ask. In general, it makes good sense to communicate early and often, and get the answers and the plan in writing before the project starts.

Also do not forget that prior to starting any project involving changes to the outside of your home, including your yard, you need to submit a project plan to the CSHOA Architectural Committee and receive approval from them. The form is available here.