Community Info

Supports for Cantilever Decks

The Board of Directors for Chesterfield Gardens Condo are working hard to address as many issues as possible without draining the reserve account.  The reserve account maintains funds for repairs and maintenance of the common grounds of the community.  This account is also one of the items evaluated by FHA when determining re certification.

In response to concerns about the decks, the Board hired a structural engineering firm to survey the buildings and provide consultation.  They concluded that we need to reinforce all decks in the community.

The decks at Chesterfield are cantilevered: held by two support beams (called joists).  An exposed portion of the joist is under the deck, anchored by the larger remaining portion situated under the floor of the unit.

Plans drawn by the engineering firm to address our concerns feature:

• Installing columns/posts underneath the outer corners of each deck.  The deck weight is distributed between the columns and joists, and we can avoid ripping-up the floors.

• Replacing all railings – for safety reasons and keeping us in compliance with Building codes.

• Removal/Replacement of existing cement slabs – to accommodate placement of each column’s footers.

We have received multiple phone calls from people that live on the ground level with out a patio or a deck, asking the question “Why does this effect me or why am I responsible for paying this amount”. The Board acquired the quotes, and came up with a price to complete the entire job. This is a community wide project. The same as if it was for replacing the roofs or windows in the common area hall ways. The Board took the number that it was quoted and divided that by 216.

Enclosed you will find a sketch of the support system: Support system

Report from the inspector – Inspection Report

We have also had people reach out for the contractor’s information. Some people are taking this opportunity to have the contractor redo the deck boards (at an added expense to the home owner)

The Board has been informed that during the process of construction, the resident does not need to be home. The contractors will be able to work from a ladder.

Animals and the Animal Control Laws

In no event shall any pet be permitted in any portion of the Common Elements unless carried or on a leash. For complete details check your Community By-Laws. If you have question not covered go to the Anne Arundel County website at http://www.aacounty.org/departments/animal-control/animal-laws/index.html

Be a Good Neighbor and Noise

As part of a community it is important to be considerate of our neighbors. Everyone should try to be amicable, pleasant and thoughtful. Please observe quite time between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Avoid the use of any noise generating equipment, and monitor your children and pet’s activities that may cause excessive floor noise. However, there are times when we must ask others to do the same. If there is an issue with one of your neighbors, please try to have a conversation with them to resolve the issue. If this does not work, send us an email at info@pinnacle-md.com and give us as much detail as possible. You can remain anonymous, but this will limit what we can do to assist you.

Insurance

You are required to have up to date homeowner’s insurance on your property. Even though the condo association has a master policy, the homeowner’s insurance is responsible for the first $10,000, in the event of a fire, water leak or other damage that your unit may cause to other units or the building.

The Condominium Master Policies Insurance must cover both general common elements and limited common elements in units. Up to $10,000 of the deductible will be the responsibility of the unit owner where the damage originated.

• To obtain a copy of the Master Policy contact: Sahouri by clicking here

If you have a claim, contact your property manager prior to submitting a claim at 410-760-4203 x 1008

Outside Faucets

Outside faucets may be used by owners. However, car washing is not permitted.

Patio and Decks

Patio and Decks must be kept neat and orderly. Only outside furniture and gardening containers allowed. Do not store trash, toys, bicycles or mops and brooms. No inside furniture.

Snow

The snow removal contractor does not begin plowing until the snow accumulation has reached three (3) inches. They will plow the main drive lane, clear sidewalks and apply salt. They will not clear individual parking spaces. Do not put any items out to save a parking spot. It will be thrown away. Be a good neighbor and not park in a spot that was shoveled out by someone else. The Community has purchased a broom and shovel for the use of the entire building. This is so home owners can shovel their own cars out with out worrying about storing a shovel in their condo. The community also has provided salt buckets full of salt. Please use only the amount needed. Excess salt on the side walks damage the steps and cement.