Structural Beam Replacement in Condo

Who would be responsible for the replacement of a structural beam in poor condition? Per the photos below, the beam supports the unit above me. It’s normally encased in drywall. I want to replace it before I replace the drywall.

I removed the old drywall in order to install arches at the ends. I wanted to attach a couple photos, but their file size is too big.

A condo owner typically only owns windows, doors and space. The structure of the building is the HOA’s responsibility.

Drywall may or may not belong to the unit owner. Depending on the declaration, you may have destroyed HOA property when you tore off the drywall.

Take a close look at your CC&Rs, particularly the section that defines "common elements" and "unit." Then look at the section that addresses association responsibilities and unit owner responsibilities. Also look for any restrictions on what unit owners may do.

In my condo community, structural components are defined as common elements which are association responsibility. Unit owners are not permitted to make any changes to structural components, especially load-bearing ones.

You should talk to the board about this before you do anything.

I would be surprised if you were allowed to replace anything that supports the unit above you. That's a liability/lawsuit nightmare waiting to happen.

Hi,

I have experience with structural beams and structural engineers. I had a twisted center support beam and by engineering instructions had it replaced with a LVL beam by a contractor. This was permitted and inspected. This was a residentional non-condo property. What did the engineer had to say?

Even if the engineer says it's an issue the main point which all of us are trying to state is the drywall removal was that allowed by your docs? The work that you did if it was allowed by you being a unit owner did it need a permit? What are the rules in your doc if you are going to do interior work in your unit and what does the association need to know?

Most likely the beam is condo responsibility but you would need to check.

My docs in NJ are a bit different than other states. That is what the experienced folks have explained to me. My rules on who is responsible for what is in the master deed under maintenance. The bigger title is ownership of units, maintenance and alterations.

If you could get back to us on what you find it will be helpful.

The engineer, who is also a neighbor, said it needs to be replaced or reinforced. I don’t want to reinforce, as that will affect the aesthetics.

We're pretty much allowed to do any interior work unless it affects the building structure, drain pipes or vent pipes. I AM going to inform the HOA. I want the HOA to cover the cost. Wish I could upload the photos.

OK. Thanks for the info.