HOA Complaints Explained: How And Where To File Complaints (Per State)

Q: How do I file a complaint against my HOA?

To file a complaint against homeowners association, write a formal letter or complete an online form with the appropriate agency, depending on the nature of the complaint. For instance, for housing complaints, owners must turn to their state housing authority.

Q: My HOA is harassing me, what should I do?

To report HOA abuse or harassment, make sure to first review the governing documents and try to communicate directly with the board. If that fails, homeowners can escalate by filing a formal complaint with their state agency or local law enforcement. Legal action may also be necessary to file a cease and desist. For threats of violence, call the police.

Every now and then, homeowners are going to have HOA complaints, whether it’s about negligent maintenance or a sharp increase in dues. But who should homeowners turn to when they are unsatisfied? Are there government agencies that can help?

What are HOA Complaints?

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Homeowners associations are responsible for managing entire communities. The work involves several tasks, including collecting dues, maintaining common areas, and enforcing rules. Due to the nature of these HOAs, it is not uncommon for homeowners to feel displeased with one aspect or another.

Complaints against the HOA or its board are normal. As people have contrasting opinions and come from differing backgrounds, it is expected that some may not agree with the way board members handle things.

For boards, it is important to approach every HOA complaint with empathy and professionalism. For homeowners, escalation is not always the answer. Sometimes, all it takes is an open mind and a simple conversation.

Can You File a Complaint Against HOA?

how to report hoa abuse

In general, yes, homeowners can file a complaint against their HOA or condo association. The need to file homeowner association complaints usually arises when there is perceived misconduct, such as when the HOA breaches its own rules or enforces them inconsistently.

While the first instinct is to sue or lodge a complaint with a government agency, it isn’t always the best course of action. Lawsuits, for instance, are expensive and time-consuming. They can take years to resolve, and there’s no guarantee of winning.

Submitting an official complaint, on the other hand, can negatively impact the association. This, in turn, can indirectly affect the homeowner. When an HOA has a complaint filed against it, it may need to pay damages. If insurance can’t cover the damages, the HOA would need to raise dues or levy special assessments to meet the obligation.

Additionally, the association’s reputation could take a hit. While this may not seem serious, it can actually influence appeal and drag down property values. For these reasons, complaints and lawsuits are best reserved as last resorts for cases of abuse, discrimination, misconduct, or clear violations.

Instead, homeowners should seek to resolve the issue internally. They can approach their board or manager and explain their concern. Submitting a formal complaint in writing also helps with documentation.

If internal efforts don’t work, opt for alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Both mediation and arbitration involve a neutral third party, but they cost less and are faster than lawsuits.

How do I File a Complaint Against My HOA?

There may come a time when homeowners have no choice but to report HOA violations, but few know where to turn. To file a complaint against a homeowners’ association, write a formal letter or complete an online form with the appropriate agency, depending on the nature of the complaint. For instance, for housing complaints, owners must turn to their state housing authority.

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Frequently Asked Questions

My HOA is harassing me. What should I do?

To report HOA abuse or harassment, first review the governing documents and try to communicate directly with the board. If that fails, homeowners can escalate by filing a formal complaint with their state agency or local law enforcement. Legal action may also be necessary to file a cease-and-desist order. For threats of violence, call the police.

How to file a complaint against the condo board?

First, unit owners must attempt to resolve the issue internally. If that does not work, they may try mediation or arbitration. The last resort should be filing a complaint with a state agency or taking legal action.

How to report HOA violations?

To report an HOA violation, first check the governing documents for the specific process. Then, try a friendly chat, if appropriate. If that doesn’t resolve it, the owner may submit a formal complaint with evidence (photos, dates) via the HOA’s online portal, email, or form to the board or management.

Prioritize Internal Resolutions

In the end, HOA complaints are a normal part of shared living. When problems do arise, it is best to take the issue directly to the board or manager first before escalating to other methods. This will help keep the peace and maintain high property values.

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