The rebuild is not just a flooring choice

Once a wet floor has been removed and the slab or subfloor is dry, it is tempting to treat the replacement as a simple purchase. In many condo buildings it is not. Associations often have rules or architectural guidelines about hard surface flooring, especially in upper-floor units, because hardwood, tile and stone transmit impact noise into the home below. Those rules may require a specific type or rating of sound-control underlayment, a written application, and sometimes an inspection before the floor is finished.

This affects the claim as well as the schedule. If the original floor was installed with an approved underlayment, the replacement should match it, and that underlayment is part of the cost of restoring the floor to its prior condition. If the original floor was installed without approval, or with an underlayment that no longer meets current rules, the situation becomes more complicated, and the board, the owner and the insurers may disagree about who pays for bringing it into compliance.

Glue-down or nail-down methods, perimeter isolation strips that keep the floor from touching walls, and transitions at doorways can all be part of an association's requirements. Ask for the written standard rather than relying on what a neighbor remembers.

Matching the old floor versus upgrading

Restoring what was there

  • Usually what an insurer measures the claim against
  • May be simpler to approve if the original was approved
  • Matching an older product line can be difficult
  • Keeps the unit consistent with any remaining undamaged flooring

Choosing something different

  • Any added cost above like-for-like is usually the owner's
  • Needs a fresh approval under current association rules
  • Can be a chance to switch to a more water-tolerant material
  • May require replacing undamaged areas for a continuous look

Before ordering new flooring

Questions for the board or manager

  1. What sound rating or product type does the association require under hard flooring?
  2. Does a replacement after a loss require the same approval as a voluntary remodel?
  3. Is there an inspection before the finished floor is installed over the underlayment?
  4. Are there approved installers or restrictions on adhesive odors and work hours?
  5. If my original floor predates the current rule, does the new rule apply to the replacement?

General information for Cherry Creek, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.