Even though I’ve posted about this before, the message is still prevalent. Recently another HOA member had her loft damaged when a major pipe broke. Needless to say, the plumbing fix was complex in this old building. Rightly so and very concerned, she ever-so-politely requested that the manager and plumbing company get appropriate permits. Given that the standard practice for this vendor was to do work without permits, there was hesitancy. Although feeling bad about asserting herself, undeterred. she persisted with her request and one was obtained. After the plumbers did the work, the next step was to schedule an inspector’s visit. Cheering her on, I encouraged her to be onsite with the inspector and ask questions. When she told the manager she would be there, he asked that she not make too much trouble and keep focused on the repairs. When she texted me this I responded with, “I have a series of artwork on “Be A Good Girl”. He is asking you to comply with that instead of respecting that you are a homeowner and addressing you as such. This will be your opportunity to ask the questions you need and want to ask. Don’t let him or any of the others intimidate you!” Turns out the plumbers rerouted the new pipe incorrectly, the work did not pass inspection and had to be redone. Such corroboration for her to speak up! I fully support her rejoicing in following what she knew to be true and taking care of herself and her property.
