Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Massachusetts

condominium fees

I recently purchased a condominium in Haverhill, Massachusetts. I was told the condo fees are $135.00 per month. The condo management had to increase it to $140.00, because of recent work being done on the stairs outside. Now, the management co. wants an add''l $600.00 from each unit owner to cover the repair cost! When I moved here, my steps had already been repaired, and I had no knowledge from the previous owner that these charges were in the plans. Is this legal? Can they demand more money whenever they want it? Quite frankly, I can''t afford it. Had I been asked first, I would have declined repairs.


Asked on 3/23/04, 6:04 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Re: condominium fees

Any additional fees have to be approved by the Board of your Condo Association, not the management company. But having said that the Board subject to the terms of the association rules is usually required to have a meeting in granting the assessment.

You need to get a copy of the Condo Association or Trust and any rules. As to the repair, if the assessment was approved prior to closing, the seller should have disclosed it to you.

I would go back to the attorney who handled your purchase and ask him about this, once you have done your home work.

If you have further questions, please feel free to contact me.

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Answered on 3/24/04, 10:30 am


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