Bad home owners associations or HOA management can lead to problems for you down the road. It’s probably best to steer clear of residences where you can tell HOA management isn’t up to snuff, but if you end up in a dispute with your HOA, having a legal professional on your side can help protect your interests and make it more likely the issue is resolved to your benefit.
You can’t always spot bad HOAs when you’re shopping for a residence, but some signs that things aren’t quite as they should be can be seen in the community. The right questions can also help you ferret out potential issues.
When you’re looking around the community, evaluate the state of the properties and infrastructure. HOAs are often tasked with keeping up common areas, so if you see those languishing, you can bet the HOA isn’t doing its job or is struggling with issues that get in the way of the job. Look for fences or walkways that are in disrepair, and check out areas such as the common swimming pool or playground. Are they clean and in good working condition?
Some questions you might ask include whether past lawsuits have been filed against the HOA and what exactly falls under the HOA’s responsibility. It’s good to know exactly what you’re paying for and whether the HOA has a history of living up to its responsibility.
If you’re dealing with an HOA issue already, our firm can help. We work with individuals and businesses; whatever side you’re on, we can help you understand the issue and either develop a settlement that works for you or bring the matter to court.
