Overview Architectural guidelines are one of the most misunderstood, and frequently abused, tools HOAs from HELL (i.e., bad HOAs) use to control how homeowners modify their properties. These rules were originally meant to preserve design consistency and property...
Overview Architectural approvals are one of the most common (and most abused) sources of conflict between California homeowners and their HOAs. Whether you’re replacing windows, adding a patio cover or pergola, or updating your landscaping, most HOAs require prior...
Overview The Davis-Stirling Act is the foundation of California HOA law. Found in Civil Code 4000–6150, the Davis-Stirling Act governs nearly every aspect of HOA life from how boards operate to how homeowners vote, pay assessments, and resolve disputes. Because these...
Overview California’s HOA elections are governed by Civil Code 5100–5145, which are part of the Davis-Stirling Act, and which set rules for fair nomination, voting, and ballot handling. These election-related procedures are highly complex, interwoven with multiple...
Overview Conflicts of interest arise when an HOA director’s personal or financial interests intersect with the director’s judgment as to what is best for the HOA as a whole. California law addresses these in two several places, including Civil Code 5350(b) (no voting...
Overview If you live in a community governed by an HOA, then you already understand how much power your association holds over your home, your property value, and your quality of life. A well-run HOA can maintain order and protect property values. But a bad HOA (i.e.,...
