WELCOME TO AUBURN LAKES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION (ALCA) AND OUR FAQ’s PAGE
IN SOME CIRCUMSTANCES OUR HOME MAY BE OUR CASTLE. OUR CONDOMINIUM, HOWEVER, MAY BE SOMEWHAT DIFFERENT!, AND IN SOME WAYS, IT CAN BE VERY DIFFERENT!
The purpose of these frequently asked questions and their answers is too both orient new, and not so new, residents to how a condominium association is organized and operated as well as address some commonly misunderstood facets of condominium life and living. Some of these FAQ’s are drawn from our ALCA Quick Start Guide which may be available from our association manager Mr. Kostelnik but is also reproduced in the Information For Residents section of this website. Other FAQ’s represent more recent questions that have arisen from the everyday operations of the association.
SO HOW ARE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATIONS ORGANIZED AND OPERATED?
Condominiums are organized as nonprofit corporations. As such, we have rules which are superseded by our declarations and bylaws, which in turn are superseded by Ohio condominium law and other state laws. These, of course, are superseded by national laws and ultimately by our constitution.
As a nonprofit corporation, we have a board of directors who are elected by all of us, and in turn, all of us are the collective owners of everything held by the corporation that is not one’s personal condominium unit
What is the most unique aspect of a condominium association?
Virtually all condominium associations divide their property into three different sections which have unique definitions and unique characteristics. These three divisions are described below.
A Condominium Unit: This is what we each individually purchased, what we own and where we usually live. It is defined very specifically in our declarations in Article V. In brief, “each of the units consist of all the space bounded by the decorated surfaces of the perimeter walls, the basement or lowest level of walls… and floor, and ceilings of each….” In simpler terms, you’re actual unit consist of everything enclosed by the perimeter drywall from your highest ceiling down to your basement floor.
Limited Common Area: This refers to certain areas outside of your unit that you do not actually own (for example your front porch and driveway) but the use of which is generally exclusively yours.
Common Areas: are essentially everything else owned collectively by the condominium association (i.e. you and me) but not specifically owned or for the use any one particular owner.
So, based on the foregoing definitions, is there anything I am allowed to do with the exterior of my unit?
In a word, no! But there may be circumstances were small modifications might be appropriate and allowed. If you have a specific project in mind, you should first confirm with our property manager, Mr. Doug, Kostelnik, and he can advise you what you might need to prepare a proposal for presentation to the board.
WHAT COLORS MAY I USE TO STAIN DECKS, DOCKS AND FRONT PORCH?
Please look under "Information for Residents" on the Home Page where you will find a section titled "Approved Colors and Materials."