What is the definition of an illegal unit?

An illegal unit or illegal tenancy is one used for a residential purpose that is not legally established with the local municipality. For example, a landlord who rents out space to a residential tenant even though the space is not legally considered a residential space, such as garages or storage sheds, is renting out an illegal unit.

Is there a one unit per owner rule?

OK, a one–unit–per–owner provision is virtually unheard of, most likely because owners would object to rules that curb their ability to sell their unit. But our experts have seen other provisions that restrict the participation of owners of multiple units.

How does the Condominium Act protect unit owners?

The act authorizes the association of unit owners to file a suit against any unit owner or owners or, in any proper case, by one or more aggrieved unit owners on their own behalf, or as a class action. The law authorizes the court to award reasonable attorney’s fees against the losing party (CGS § 47-75(a)).

Can a unit owner file a lawsuit against a board member?

Unit owners can also file a lawsuit if the board or individual board members violate the act, the declaration, or the bylaws. The court can award attorney’s fees in such cases. If unit owners believe that the method of removing board members is insufficient they have the right to amend the bylaws to establish a better procedure.

An illegal unit or illegal tenancy is one used for a residential purpose that is not legally established with the local municipality. For example, a landlord who rents out space to a residential tenant even though the space is not legally considered a residential space, such as garages or storage sheds, is renting out an illegal unit.

Is it illegal to live in an uninhabitable unit?

Other uninhabitable conditions. While uninhabitable living conditions don’t necessarily make the unit itself illegal, it is illegal for a tenant to live in a unit that is considered uninhabitable. Maintaining your property in good condition is essential to avoiding issues in the future.

What makes an apartment an illegal rental unit?

If the tenant is sharing the utility bills (gas, electric, water, etc.) with the landlord, or the landlord is paying for the utilities entirely, the rental unit may be illegal. This is a sign because it means that the rental unit is not being separately metered.

What can unit owners do under the Condominium Act?

You asked what actions unit owners can take under the Condominium Act to contest decisions and actions taken by the association of unit owners’ board of directors. You also asked if the act authorizes a unit owner to repair significant damage to his unit (but not the common elements) without the board’s approval.