members rights to see finanicals

Short answer is yes.

If your in a condominium this is based on AZ 33-1258.

If your not in a condominium this is based on AZ 33-1805.


Yes and no.

There are some limitations on what records you may see. These are typically things like your neighbors account of Assessment payments, legal issues, etc.. These are listed within the links I provided.

If there is pending or actual litigation between you and the Association, the board can force you to go through the discovery process and withhold most (if not all) information until you do. Therefore, whenever you make a request, don't mention lawyers, courts or that you might file legal action as this would place you in the this category.

Per AZ law, the Association has 10 days (typically business days - so two weeks) to comply after they receive the request.


States see this type of an issue as a civil matter. As a civil matter you would need to take the matter to court to force them to comply.

Typically, most Associations are willing to show you the information. Those who might say no initially usually are not aware of the law. Therefore, it's usually good to cite the law and the section of your governing documents when submitting your written request.

Something like:

I am the owner of lot # at address and a member of the Association. In accordance with our [name of Association Document], [article, section number] and AZ law, [statute number] I am requesting access to review the following records of the Association:
[List of documents]
I can be reached at the following [phone, e-mail, etc.]

If you do have to get legal involved, a letter from an attorney might be all that is needed.

Please note: Reviewing the records is not the same as having copies. If you want copies, you will need to ask for them. Additionally, an Association may charge you for copies (15 cents per page).

Hope this helps,

Tim

Susan,

I agree that it is certainly easier to answer a question and provide documentation to support that answer. I also agree that the individual should have some specific issue or item in mind when they request information.

I also believe that if the Board keeps the membership informed by making minutes and attachments (like balance sheets and expense reports) easily available (association web site, MC office in a binder, etc.), then the requests will be minimal - if any come in at all.

Tim