How Does Maintenance Determined in a NY Co-op

Question

My wife and I live in a co-op we've owned for 10 years now in Brooklyn, NY.

We recently discovered that our maintenance bill is almost the same as bigger apartments in our building.

We live in a large studio and pay about $1130 a month. Our apt is about 850 sq ft.

We saw a 1BR apt in our apt that is 950 sq ft and their monthly maintenance is $1180

That sounds weird to us, but we have no idea how to challenge this bill.

What is the best way to check if our bill is too high?

Is it possible to get reimbursed for years back in case the building got our bill wrong?

Thank you.

Noam Ofan · Answer

Thanks again, @Brandon Coen

Brandon Cohen · Answer

@Noam Ofan if you don't have a copy the management company for your building should have a copy.  They may charge you for it but tell them you weren't given one at your closing!

Noam Ofan · Answer

hey, @Brandon Cohen

Thanks for the quick response.

We actually don't seem to have the offering plan for the building.

Do you know how does one get that?

Thanks again :)

Brandon Cohen · Answer

Hi @Noam Of an it typically goes off of the amount of shares.  It varies from building to building, however.  Sometimes it also will depend on the floor of the apartment; for example the same exact apartment on the ground floor will pay less than the top floor.  The attorney who represented you on your purchase should have realized this during his/her due diligence.  Have a look at the offering plan for the building (should have received a copy when purchased), and have a look at your apartment vs others in the building on a share and maintenance basis.  Good luck!