Overview Civil Code 5930 requires an offer of Alternative Dispute Resolutions (ADR), typically mediation, before certain HOA enforcement lawsuits are filed. ADR is legally required only in defined situations, and is therefore optional in all others. Regardless, ADR is...
Overview California homeowners facing disputes with their HOA sometimes have a choice: file in small claims court or bring a case in superior court (i.e., a “normal” lawsuit). Each forum has strict limits on what types of cases it can handle. Small claims court is...
TRIGGER WARNING FOLLOWING CHARLIE KIRK’S MURDER TO MY READERS: I wrote this article more than two weeks before the tragic and horrifying events of September 10, 2025, in which Charlie Kirk was murdered. We are deeply saddened and outraged by this cowardly act of...
HOA POLITICAL SIGNS IN CALIFORNIA: FREE SPEECH RIGHTS VS. HOA AUTHORITY OVERVIEW Few issues spark more conflict in HOA communities than signs and banners containing political and social expression. A Trump campaign sign, a Pride flag, or a Black Lives Matter poster...
Overview Can California HOAs block ADUs? The short answer is no. California law, especially Civil Code 4751, prohibits associations from adopting or enforcing rules that unreasonably restrict Accessory Dwelling Units (“ADUs”) or Junior ADUs. While limited California...
