Many residential neighborhoods in Florida have homeowner’s associations, and there can certainly be some perks to this. You may enjoy living in a neighborhood where lawns are kept to a well-manicured standard of beauty, and where you feel pet leash laws will be properly monitored and enforced.
Despite some of the advantages of an HOA, it is not uncommon for people to occasionally disagree with its rulings. If you find yourself at odds with your HOA, here are some helpful ways to resolve a disagreement in a favorable way.
Be aware of what you are up against
Your HOA has certain legal capabilities that can lead to things becoming quite costly for you if things do not work out in your favor. US News states that in some instances, the HOA can fine you to an extent that it may even lead to a lien on your home.
Petition, do not argue
If you have a problem with one of the rules set up by the HOA, you can bring the neighbors together and form a petition to have the rule changed or even lifted. If you have been accused of violating the rule, do not try to argue against the rule’s merits on your own.
Stay pleasant and professional
Instead of engaging with a tone of hostility, speak in a professional manner. This way it is much more likely that you will be listened to.
Get the rules in writing
If you are not so sure about the details of a rule, it will be much harder to argue your case. Try asking for a copy of the rules and regulations so you know what you are talking about.
This is not legal advice. It is a purely informational article.
