A Torrance condo owner was already paying to live in a community with a homeowners association. Then another bill arrived, and this one was for more than $49,000.
Stephen Wang told ABC7 Los Angeles that the charge is a special assessment tied to major work at the property, including rebuilding the complex’s podium, re-piping the property, and repairing elevators. ABC7 reported that the assessment affects owners in a 499-unit complex.
Unlike regular HOA dues, a special assessment is an additional charge used to cover expenses that ordinary assessments or reserves cannot handle. California law gives associations considerable power to levy them, although how that power can be exercised depends on the amount, member approval, and whether the expense qualifies as an emergency…