Connecticut House Bill HB05270

Connecticut 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/25/22
• Refer: 2/25/22

Caption

An Act Requiring The Documentation Of Efforts To Repair Or Replace Defective Concrete Foundations.

Impact

The legislation aims to provide clarity and encouragement for homeowners dealing with defective foundations by establishing a formal process to seek reassessment. It requires regular documentation of repair attempts to ensure that property valuations accurately reflect the current state of the home and its foundation. This could significantly impact homeowners financially, especially in cases where the defects lead to decreased property values and potential safety concerns. The need for regular updates might create a structured pathway for resolution, preventing prolonged uncertainty for affected homeowners.

Summary

House Bill 05270 mandates that homeowners with defective concrete foundations must document their efforts to repair or replace such foundations. This requirement applies to properties that have been reassessed due to structural issues arising from poorly constructed concrete. The bill specifies that upon receiving a written evaluation from a licensed professional engineer, homeowners can request an assessment adjustment of their property's value by presenting this documentation to the local assessor. The adjustment process is accompanied by a timeline, stipulating that inspections should occur within 90 days of the evaluation submission or prior to the assessment year that follows.

Contention

Despite its intentions, the bill could face contention regarding the feasibility and burden of documentation on homeowners. Critics may argue about the logistical challenges of maintaining ongoing proof of repair activities, including time constraints and the potential costs associated with hiring professionals to verify repairs. The requirement to provide such documentation annually may also be viewed as an inconvenience or an additional bureaucratic hurdle, raising concerns about the accessibility of this process for lower-income homeowners who may already be struggling with necessary repairs.