possible rat problem in ceiling walls - who's responsible??

We live in a large townhouse complex. The last couple days, we've noticed noises coming from our 2nd floor ceiling. There is no other unit above us. We have two common walls with our neighbors. It sound like a large rodent. At times it sounds like someone is walking on our roof. Other times, it sounds like something has set up camp up there. Our cat is also noticing the activity from above.

Are we responsible to take care of the issue or should I address this to our HOA?

Michelle,

It is really going to depend on what your governing documents say as to who is responsible for what. In my townhome the member owns everything and is a shared owner of the wall. The Association is responsible for nothing on the individual lot. Other town home developments I know of, the Association is responsible for the roof but everything below the plywood is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Without reading your documents, I would speculate that you would be responsible for trapping and releasing/disposing of the rodent (could be a squirrel. Any holes that allowed entry might be the responsibility of the Association (depending where the hole actually is).

However, without seeing the actual documents, no one can really say. If, after reading your documents, you are unsure - just contact the HOA and ask.

Tim