Lien Process Limitations: In Arizona, an HOA cannot foreclose on a home solely for unpaid fines (Arizona Revised Statutes 33-1807). While unpaid fines can lead to legal action or liens on the property, foreclosure is only permitted for unpaid assessments (like maintenance fees or dues), not fines alone.
The Homeowners Association Dispute Process is administered by the Arizona Department of Real Estate, which has the statutory jurisdiction to hear issues between residents and homeowner or inium associations.
Many HOAs maintain a website where governing documents are posted. To find HOA rules and regulations online: Navigate to the HOA's official website. Look for sections labeled “Documents,” “Governing Documents,” or “Rules and Regulations.”
The Supreme Court held that an HOA may not rely on a general amendment power provision in its covenants, conditions, and restrictions to place restrictions on landowners' use of their land only as to those restrictions for which the HOA's original declaration has provided sufficient notice.
Except in cases where the governing documents specify otherwise, the request for dissolution must be approved by a majority of the votes or a majority of the voting power, whichever is less.
Under Arizona law, an HOA may not issue a fine until it first offers you a hearing before the board of directors. If the HOA fails to provide you an opportunity for a hearing before the fine is imposed, the fine is illegal and not enforceable. Arizona law also requires that fines be reasonable.
State laws. Some states have laws that prohibit raising fees over a certain percentage. For instance, in Arizona, ing to Revised Statutes §33-1803, HOAs may not hike up fees by over 20% per year without a majority vote from the members of the community.
How to Seek Legal Action Consultation with an Attorney: Start by scheduling a consultation with an experienced Arizona HOA lawyer. Letter of Demand: In many cases, a letter of demand from your attorney to the HOA may lead to a resolution without going to court.
Homeowners should direct their complaints against a board member to the HOA board or the community manager. An effective board or manager will handle the complaint properly, even if it concerns one of their own. If need be, homeowners can request to enter dispute resolution.