HOAs in Virginia have the right to establish reasonable restrictions to maintain property values and ensure uniformity in the community. If a community member violates its rules and regulations, an HOA may impose a fine. In Virginia, a HOA can punish a homeowner for breaking its regulations.
Many associations have communication channels in place so that homeowners can talk to the board or the community manager about any issues. However, if you wish to file a complaint against your HOA, you can do so with the Office of the Common Interest Community Ombudsman.
Who governs homeowners associations in Virginia? HOAs are subject to a number of state, federal, and local laws and are governed by a common interest community board that creates and enforces certain rules and regulations contained in the HOA's governing documents.
Homeowners can sue a board member of an HOA in Virginia if they believe there has been a violation of the governing documents or state law. Legal action must be based on specific grievances, such as breach of fiduciary duty or failure to follow the association's rules.
The association will likely go into receivership. Any homeowner or creditor can take legal action against the HOA. Once it is clear that no one on the board will serve as the association's representative, the court will appoint a receiver.
In these situations, you can complain directly to this office by filing the CIC Complaint Form, which you can find under the “Forms and Applications” tab here: .dpor.virginia/cic-ombudsman.
The local law supersedes the rules and regulations of the HOA, meaning that HOAs must ensure they are operating under the law.
In some states, such as California, HOA bylaws are considered public record and must be made available upon request.
For questions or additional information, please contact the Office of the Common Interest Community Ombudsman at (804) 367-2941 or cicombudsman@dpor.virginia.