HOA duties

Started by SusanS29 • 6 replies • 358 views

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SusanS29 (California)
Posts: 5

Posted:

Hi, I have been asking the HOA to address an issue which is their responsibility. It has been a few months and the issue is not addressed - they keep saying they are working on it, but I never get a concrete answer. Does the HOA have a responsibility to address issues in a certain time?

CathyA3 (Ohio)
Posts: 6,299

Posted:

In general, no - but that will depend on the nature of the issue.

It's not unusual for boards in condominium communities to keep a list of outstanding non-urgent issues and to address them at the same time. This saves money, since vendors prefer to bid on large jobs rather than numerous small jobs that make them run around all over town. If something is urgent, though, ignoring it may result in more damage and a more expensive repair, so waiting can cost money rather than saving it.

It's not unreasonable to ask the board for an update on your issue, especially if delays will affect work that you want to do inside your home. But things rarely happen quickly in HOAs, since all discussions and decision-making have to take place in noticed open board meetings. Delays are built into the process unless the issue is an emergency.

KerryL1 (California)
Posts: 14,550

Posted:

Who in the HOA are you asking? If your HOA has a property manager, usually an email to her/him describing the problem is required. If it’s a maintenance issue, you’d HOA might have a website where you can submit a work order.

If the problem is a violation that you see, often there’s a form to fill out tp report the violation.to the Board via the PM.

You also, at the next board meeting during the required open forum, ask the Board to fix the problem.

Please tell us the nature of the problem for better ideas that might help.

MarkM19 (Texas)
Posts: 1,459

Posted:

Susan,
Once again, we are left guessing many things here. If you really want good advice you have come to the right place, but we cannot read minds and the devil is always in the details.

1) What is the issue? Is it a violation or a repair?
2) Who did you notify? Do you have a property manager?
3) How large is your HOA/COA?

SheliaH (Indiana)
Posts: 6,964

Posted:

And when did you first contact the property manager and/or board?

As Melissa noted, things don't always happen as quickly in HOA land as you'd like, especially if spending HOA money is involved. Some things might not even be a HOA issue - for example, if you're having a disagreement with another homeowner, that's really between you two. The HOA should only get involved if the matter concerns misuse or abuse of the common areas or if several homeowners are involved (who I would think would have already contacted the board anyway).

If it is not right do not do it; if it is not true do not say it. Marcus Aurelius

KevinF4 (New York)
Posts: 3

Posted:

There isn't typically a universal timeline for HOA's to fix problems. The resolution timing can indeed vary based on the nature of the problem, its severity, costs associated, board meeting schedules, or even the process of getting multiple bids from contractors.

Generally, HOAs do have a responsibility to maintain and repair common areas, and to address issues within their purview in a timely and reasonable manner.

If you feel the issue is being delayed excessively, you could write a formal letter to the board detailing the issue and the impact it's having on you. Be sure to keep records of all communication.

In extreme cases, you might want to consult with a local attorney who's familiar with HOA laws to see if legal action is warranted.

I've been working with Daisy Property Management and we often encounter scenarios where efficient problem-solving is needed. We practice proactive management, aiming to address issues swiftly while keeping all parties informed in real-time, ensuring transparency and maintaining residents' satisfaction.

JohnC46 (South Carolina)
Posts: 14,265

Posted:

Quote:

Posted By SusanS29 on 07/05/2023 10:42 PM
Hi, I have been asking the HOA to address an issue which is their responsibility. It has been a few months and the issue is not addressed - they keep saying they are working on it, but I never get a concrete answer. Does the HOA have a responsibility to address issues in a certain time?

What is the issue?

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