What constitutes a hoarder in a co-op? Well, I suppose one could argue that it is as simple as too much stuff in your home. However, I’m going to go with the camp that says hoarders have problems on so many levels it’s hard to comprehend.
Luckily, if you live in a place with iron-clad rules and so many restrictions it makes your head spin, I think you’re safe from having a neighbor like that, right? After all, “Beyond the psychological impact of the disorder, the accumulation of trash and clutter can attract animals, create public health and hygiene violations, and result in fire hazards. Obviously, these are issues that could affect the broader neighborhood.” (Thanks, Nolo.)
Or not.
Here’s a list of my neighbor’s doings:
- Has failed annual inspection at least twice.
- Has had groups of volunteers (who all look sick) helping her unload the trash from her apartment.
- Has been reported that she had bugs.
- Pictures exist (I’ve seen them) of her bathroom filled with dumpster trash–shower is full to the ceiling.
- Uses the co-op’s Community Center to urinate, defecate and shower, because she can’t access her own bathroom.
- Was caught dumpster diving on many occasions.
- Car is piled high with trash everywhere except driver’s seat.
Now, I’m not sure if there is anything in the bylaws about car maintenance. But, it really does bring down market value as well as home maintenance you know. This hoarder is in violation of at least 2 of these things. Angela, the manager, is aware too. But nothing is done. As for the car storage part, notices were sent out a few months ago about the car policy, but enforcing it more than that? Nothing.
Here’s where it gets really good:
Hoarder qualifies to be evicted from the co-op, fully receiving her buy-in back (hopefully minus clean-up and renovation costs, but who knows). Well, she somehow catches wind that the BOD is preparing to kick her out, and she runs to our local legal aid office to get a free lawyer to sue the co-op. Now, keep in mind that she has failed inspection more than enough times to be evicted, even with warnings before inspections. Suddenly nobody can ever find her to let her know she’s got 60 days to get out. The only time you see her is with her lawyer………OR with one of the BOD members: Sheila.
Sheila has basically helped Hoarder be one step ahead of the BOD. Not sure what the definition of conflict of interest is (ok, yes I am), but this is unreal.
It gets better:
The lawyer advised the BOD that they had a 70% chance of winning in court. In cases like these that is a good percentage.
The BOD, scared of being sued, backs down completely, and allows Hoarder to stay.
Happy Dumpster Diving.
Tales from the Co-op Side 