HOA Responsibilities After Storm Damage to Common Areas

Common areas are spaces shared by all residents, such as lobbies, stairwells, parking lots, and exterior building surfaces. After a storm, the HOA is usually responsible for repairing these areas. Your individual unit, including interior walls and personal belongings, is typically your own responsibility.

Review your HOA declaration and bylaws to see exactly what is considered common area. Some communities include limited common areas like balconies or patios. If you are unsure, ask the board for a written explanation. Knowing this upfront helps you avoid confusion later.

• Roofs and exterior walls
• Hallways and stairwells
• Shared plumbing and electrical systems
• Parking lots and driveways
• Clubhouses and pools
• Landscaping and common grounds

The HOA's master insurance policy usually covers damage to common areas, but deductibles may be passed to residents. Your personal homeowners policy covers your unit's interior and your belongings. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Check your HOA documents for any special assessments that might apply. If the storm causes widespread damage, the HOA might levy a fee to cover deductibles or uninsured losses. Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs before you pay anything.

If water damage is extensive, the HOA should hire local water damage pros to dry out structures and prevent mold. Mold can start growing within a day or two, especially in a humid subtropical climate with hot humid summers and cool winters. The pros use equipment to extract water and dehumidify spaces.

You can request that the HOA bring in a water damage inspection service to assess hidden damage. This helps identify issues behind walls or under flooring. If the board refuses, you may need to hire your own inspector and share the findings with your insurer.