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My coop, which is not exactly the most brilliantly run coop, has sent a legal, letter over my doormat threatening eviction if I continue to put it out. Keeping in mind that we have had a doormat since per-coop times - about 1970 and it is a fireproof 1/4 thick dormant. They then imposed the legal fee of $450 on my bill that it cost them to write that letter. I know the fee is unenforceable and I know they ignored other residents who had large items - bikes, strollers - in the hallway. What to do?
Join the Conversation Comments (1)Living in a corner coop apt. with zero foot traffic with the exception of my own or my visitors, a floor mat has prevented dirt from even the outside hallway carpet. I live on a lower level which receives lots of dust & dirt. Before the mat, there was constant foot prints all over my floors from outside of my door. I've had door mats in front of my doors in houses since childhood. Had my mat here for 5 years. It's now even noticed. Regulations in NYC are totally out of control. Making no logical sense. So the hallway carpet is not a fire hazard but a small little mat is????
Call the fire dept. ask them . Also mention other items in the hallway. Hopefully they will come and give the co-op a fine and then blame the board!! I’ve contacted the fire dept regarding questions besides I have a relative in the dept.
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My experience was that the Fire Dept is the authority that said nothing is to be in the hallway because, in case of an actual fire, evacuation of the shareholders might be delayed because of various items in the hallway.
Remember that during a serious fire (which can break out in very little time), the hallways may become pitch black due to smoke. If people have any objects impeding their escape route, there could be deaths and possible liability to the co-op. The worst of both worlds.
If you say that you're being unfairly singled out for your doormat while others are allowed to keep their items (bikes, strollers, etc) in front of their doors, then I recommend that you take video of these other offending objects. This can then be given to the Board as proof that the rule is being unfairly applied to shareholders. Then ask the Board why YOU are getting the eviction letter and the other shareholders (s/h) are not. After all, aren't the other s/h violating the rules, too?
In order for a Board to be respected and successful, they must apply the co-op's rules fairly and across the Board. If you're being singled out while others are not being penalized, your video proof will stop all talk of eviction.
One last thing, keep all documentation - legal letters, emails, phone calls. Anything and everything. You may need it in the future to support your claims.
Good luck and please keep us posted.
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