If you find yourself in a dispute with the leadership of your homeowner’s association, you may be at a loss regarding how to handle the issue.
Even people who have carefully read through and attempted to follow the HOA bylaws can find themselves in disagreements with the people running the association. Here are three things you can do if you are in this predicament.
1. Check the paper trail
The first place to look when involved in a quarrel with your HOA is at the association’s conditions, restrictions, declaration of covenants, rules, bylaws and guidelines. These documents often outline the internal protocol for members to settle controversies.
2. Meet with the leadership
To start the process of resolving a problem between yourself and an HOA, a meeting with the president or other board members often takes place. This enables the parties to discuss the issues through informal conversation and determine whether you can resolve them internally. Strive to resolve your differences with the association through the internal procedures to keep the rapport as amicable as possible. After all, unless you sell the affected property, your relationship with these people will be ongoing.
3. Contact an attorney
Since laws governing HOAs are complex, it is wise to consult with an attorney if you have questions on how to resolve an issue with your association. They can discuss a good approach for your particular situation, as many issues between homeowners and HOA can arise.
Though no one wants a conflict to materialize with their HOA, there are protocols in place to keep the process as civil as possible.