If your townhouse roof is leaking, is missing shingles, or worse, is just plain falling apart, you
need to quickly determine who the responsible party is so repairs can get underway as soon as
possible.
Handling a townhouse roof repair or replacement project isn’t as straightforward as dealing with a single-family home, because in most cases multiple parties are involved, like your
homeowner’s association and your neighbors.
Several factors come into play.
Do You Rent or Own?
If you are simply the tenant, a townhouse roof problem is an inconvenience, but thankfully it’s
not going to drain your finances — this is your landlord’s problem.
However, if you don’t report the problem right away, whether it’s a leak or mold growth, you
could be in violation of the terms of your lease. Make it a point to communicate with your
landlord about any damage you notice on your townhouse roof so the issues are rectified fast.
Do You Pay HOA Dues?
If you own the townhouse, the first document you want to find is your homeowner’s association
agreement. Most townhouse communities require residents to pay dues. Depending on the terms of the homeowner’s association agreement, the dues are meted out periodically for different reasons. Sometimes these include capital improvements to the townhomes, such as roof repairs and replacements.
If roof repairs are covered under this agreement, talk to the HOA point of contact and report the problem. They will send a contractor to review the damage and make an estimate for repairs.
It might prompt the organization to initiate a community-wide roof replacement, especially if
you aren’t the only resident with a leaking roof. If the HOA does not have its finances in order,
you might be required to make the repairs yourself until they gather enough funds to cover the
project.
How Extensive Is the Damage?
If your homeowner’s association agreement does not include roof repairs, the burden will fall on you. In this case, you may be covered under your homeowner’s insurance if the damage is the result of a natural disaster or other catastrophe.
If the roof’s wear and tear is simply the result of its advanced age, it’s time to start planning to
replace it. You don’t want to neglect your roof to the point where it begins to cause water
damage in your home, or worse, in your neighbor’s.
Maintaining a townhouse roof requires even more awareness for that reason – you don’t want to end up paying for repairs to your neighbor’s home too.
Talk to the Roof Doctor for guidance through all issues surrounding townhouse roof repairs and replacements — you need professional advice and a trained eye to navigate the legal aspects and get a fair and accurate quote.