remodeling & upgrading

You may be looking in the wrong place. Generally bylaws dictate how the association is to be run (e.g. number of board members, how often it meets, elections, etc.) CCRs govern use of the common areas, which may include number of pets, when you can rent your unit and....changes to the unit.

Rules regarding changes to the unit usually focus on the outside of the unit, such as fences, types of windows - in other words, things you can see from the street. That means you're usually free to do whatever you want on the inside unless you're making some sort of radical change that could impact the common area, such as enlarging a room.

In short, keep reading - if necessary, have your attorney look at the documents so you'll be certain. Better yet, just go back to the board and tell them what you'd like to do. If they say it's ok (all of them), you're probably ok, but if you're paranoid, it wouldn't hurt to have them prepare a written statement to that effect to protect everyone.

PS - please use paragraphs next time. Your post was a bit hard to read, as I think you rushed to write it.

PPS - I'm glad you did your due diligence in selecting a licensed and bonded contractor - it seems too many people opt for the cheapest price and then wonder why they get ripped off. You don't have to pick the most expensive, but when work is being done on the most valuable thing you own, why lowball it?

Also things that could affect other units, like noise caused by a flooring change.

For condos, Sheila & Douglas, many changes to the INTERIOR require architectural committee approval. Ours, for instance, states we must seek such approval for any wall penetration of the sheetrock, plumbing routing changes and electrical routing changes. There's more too.

The application must include the architectural drawings and mechanical drawings re: the unit. There's often duct work, piping, lines to ceiling sprinklers, etc. etc. I believe ours are not different than most condo projects.

Contractors usually are required to list their licenses & insurance on the arch. change app form. An actual committees decides whether to approve. There are hours and days limitations and, if applicable, reservations for elevators, etc.

Please clarify, Lance.

1. You ARE talking about a condo, right??

2. Condo or detached home: Never, EVER believe a verbal statement from "a board member." They might not know what they're talking about; they might have misunderstood your questions. You want everything in writing from the board of directors or from the property management company if they can speak for the board. It's also possible you'd get something in writing from some sort of architectural approval committee.

Ask your property manager for the documents you need to read if you can't find them or read them on your own.