Homeowner faces $8,000 bill for in-law suite construction

In Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, a homeowner named Robert O'Neal has received a nearly $8,000 back bill from the North Huntingdon Township Municipal Authority. This charge arose from the 2011 addition of an in-law suite to his home, causing the authority to classify his single-family residence as a duplex. The classification change resulted in retroactive billing for what the authority considers a second unit, with fees set per unit. O'Neal's concerns reflect his belief that his property remains a single unit despite having an in-law suite. O'Neal contends that he has consistently adhered to his responsibilities as a homeowner, and the unexpected financial burden is causing him significant stress. Despite his efforts to maintain compliance, he received no prior warning regarding the need to report changes to the authority. The North Huntingdon Township Municipal Authority has indicated that it is the homeowner's responsibility to inform them of such modifications. However, the regulations themselves do not specify in-law suites or mandate reporting of construction plans. The municipal authority has placed a lien on O'Neal's property as he remains obligated to address the outstanding bill. Authorities, including Michael Branthoover, the head of the North Huntingdon Township Municipal Authority, have stated that this situation is not intended as a money grab, clarifying that the charges are based on operational policies rather than funding needs for infrastructure projects like the $43 million treatment facility. However, the lack of clear guidelines about reporting additions adds to homeowners' confusion and potential for unexpected financial implications. As the situation evolves, Robert O'Neal and other affected homeowners are left grappling with the consequences of these billing policies and a system that seems to lack transparency regarding classification changes. With the authority emphasizing individual accountability, many are voicing concerns about equity and communication surrounding property modifications, particularly as they pertain to caring for family members.