As in any home ownership, owners are responsible for the maintenance of the interior of their unit; however, there are some items or elements for which the owner of a Unit is responsible to maintain, repair, remove, and replace at his/her expense that do not completely conform to the above definition of ownership. They are identified as Limited Common Elements. A Limited Common Element is distinct from a Common Element for which the Association is fully responsible.
In some cases, however, there are Limited Common Elements for which the Association assumes responsibility as a Common Expense in order to establish a uniform appearance and standard of care. These elements include foundations and roofs; siding and trim; gutters and leaders; garage doors and their operating mechanisms; occasional grounds keeping of planting beds and, unless previously modified by a Unit Owner, entryway steps and stoops, walkways, and trash bins.
Limited Common Elements for which Unit Owners are responsible include:
- Entryway steps, stoops, walkways, and trash bins if previously modified by a unit owner
- Walkway and exterior light fixtures including bulb replacement
- Decks and patios
- Railings and steps to decks and patios
- Awnings and handrails
- Skylights, windows, exterior doors, and shed roofing over kitchen doors
- Door bells, alarm systems, and motion sensors
- Chimneys and exhaust vents, including dryer vents
- Interior of garages
- Outside water spigots, underground irrigation systems, and exterior water barriers
- Foundation drainage, foundation waterproofing, and sump pumps
- Pots, planters, and planting beds located appurtenant to a unit or garage
