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Voluntary Work by OwnerApr 09, 2015

Hi,

I received a request from an owner that wanted to add insultation to the parking area. The owner stated they would perform the work and absorb all the costs. At first, I thought it was a good idea, but then started thinking about all the liability that comes with it. Any thoughts on how to approach it when an owner is volunteering for the work? or does this mean we should treat the owner as an independent contractor? Any advice is much appreciated. Thanks!

DC

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Voluntary work by owner - Steven424 Apr 09, 2015

I feel you definitely need to treat the owner as an independent contractor. Same license, permits, and insurance requirements as with any outside contractor. There is an extra level of complexity - if there are problems during or after the job, holding a shareholder and your neighbor accountable will be more difficult.

You should discuss this with the co-op's attorney to get her/his opinion on the arrangement.

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Voluntary Work by Owner - Ned in Toronto, Canada Apr 10, 2015

I agree with Steven. I would thank the owner "for their gracious offer, but due to potential liability issues and for example, if he or someone else gets hurt in the process, or something gets damaged or something is wrong with the work, it cannot be permitted. It's to protect him as well as the ownership". I would go onto say that "if the ownership deems this work as required, in the future, and we solicit quotes, we would certainly include you in that process".

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Voluntary Work by Owner - CondoPrezDC Apr 10, 2015

Steve, Ned,

Thank you for the feedback. Much appreciated.

DC

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