What Makes for a Successful Transition Study?
In our previous post, we discussed the importance of a transition study, and also reviewed the contents of a typical transition report. When done correctly, a transition study – in conjunction with a reserve study – can aid the association to preserve the overall value of the property and all the shared amenities included with it. In the event the transition study reveals any construction defects and the developer refuses to repair such defects, the transition report can also be used as valuable evidence during a fair settlement and litigation.
However, ensuring a productive transition study is a no simple feat. Several components are required to produce a clean transition report that can actually benefit both the association and the developer. Read on as we detail the factors that community associations and developers must consider when partaking in a transition study.
Effective Communication and Full Participation of the Community
Effective communication between the professional consultants and the developer or community association is critical. If all the key stakeholders in the study can communicate clearly with each other, spurious claims can be avoided, and the need to hire an attorney to explain things can be minimized.
A transition study also requires the full participation of the residents for it to be successful. For instance, a transition study concerning the turnover of condominium and all its shared amenities will require the residents to allow the inspector to inspect their space. Furthermore, they may also need to answer a questionnaire for any concerns regarding the unit interiors.
A Detailed Inspection Checklist
It is also essential for the managing directors of the association to list all areas and amenities of the association’s property and define the items to check in the area. This can help ensure that all property elements are inspected and help fast-track the inspection process as well.
Some developers only offer shared amenities as basic as parking lots and parks, but most of them these days offer more than enough, including swimming pools, off-road motorcycle tracks, gyms, jogging paths, play areas for kids, etc. Regardless of how lavish the amenities are, it is crucial to list them all down to ensure that those facilities are reasonably well built.
A Qualified Expert
Last but not the least, a successful transition study can only be done through accurate engineering inspection conducted by a professional engineer. A professional engineer has the expertise and provides an impartial opinion of how construction defects can be repaired and for how much.
More importantly, they also have the knowledge that can help determine whether the association should accept the development and the common property elements as is or wait until the developer has rectified all the construction defects.
Lockatong Engineering offers a transition study to enable community associations to understand thoroughly how successfully the developer has met all obligations and expectations for a project. Our comprehensive transition study covers:
- The overall condition of building components and systems that are the Association’s responsibility, as well as those conditions that may limit the expected useful life of the buildings and their components.
- Detailed data regarding significant deficiencies, deferred maintenance items, and material code violations—based on our visual survey of the building and grounds, document research and conversations with people who have knowledge about the community.
- A transition cost estimate for repair or completion of components to bring them into compliance with the noted standards or contractual agreements.
With the experience, knowledge and professional objectivity that we bring to every project, our clients can be confident that their transition study conveys detailed information, so every complexity and feature can be understood – and acted upon if needed. As follow up to the transition report, Lockatong Engineering also provides assistance and support to the association during negotiation with the developer.
Contact us today to learn more about our Transition Study services.
