“BEST PRACTICES” FOR LIVING IN AN HOA

DO'S AND DON'TS WHEN DEALING WITH YOUR HOA

Here are some best practices you should consider If you live in an HOA, you should:

ALWAYS:

• Talk to an HOA lawyer if you have any questions or concerns

• Pay your assessments (you may want to pay them '“under protest” in certain situations)

• Read your CC&Rs and other governing documents carefully

• Consult with a lawyer before making any architectural or design changes

• Regularly inspect the HOA’s books and records

• Run for a seat on the Board of Directors

• Attend and participate at all board meetings

• Ask questions.

• Request a hearing for any alleged violations

• Meet with a lawyer (yes, it is that important)

• Know your rights

• Run your credit report regularly (is someone illegally pulling your credit?)

DO NOT:

• Don’t refuse or withhold payment of assessments

• Don’t pay fines or penalties without first speaking with a lawyer

• But don’t ignore violation letters

• Don't ignore a lawsuit; never ignore a lawsuit

NEVER:

• Never agree to a payment plan that is not in writing

• Never agree to a payment plan that does not tell you to the penny how much you will pay and over what period of time

• Never agree to a payment plan without discussing it with a lawyer first

• Never trust them when they tell you “not to worry” about answering a lawsuit

• Never ignore a lawsuit or the threat of a lawsuit

If you find yourself stuck in a difficult situation with your homeowners association, make sure you are following these best practices AND getting in contact with an attorney. This is the best way to help ensure you don’t get pulled into more fees and legal trouble.

If you are currently looking for a home owner association lawyer, make sure you contact us today - We are here to help you fight (or avoid a legal battle) with your HOA! Our Arizona homeowner HOA lawyers want to represent you.