Category Archives: Enforcement of Rules, Covenants & Deed Restrictions

Should cities adopt HOA-like restrictions?

Posted on by
Rules-banner-man-red-pen

By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities   In today’s post, IAC considers the question: in the relentless quest for protecting property values, haven’t some cities gone too far?   Beware: Some cities turning into HOAs on steroids Several city and county governments in Georgia are up in arms about proposed restrictions on their power to dictate design elements of single-family and duplex homes. Five House representatives are sponsoring a bill that would prohibit local governments from Continue ReadingShould cities adopt HOA-like restrictions?→

Don’t count on your HOA to enforce nuisance rules

Posted on by
Brooks-neighbor-dogs-barking

By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities Do you believe that HOA covenants, restrictions and rules help keep a neighborhood looking neat and tidy, discourage your neighbors from behaving badly, and foster some sense of community? If so, read on. All too often, we hear reports of overly restrictive HOA enforcement of rules. HOAs have been known to fine and sue homeowners over trivial “violations of standards” that range from painting the front door an unapproved Continue ReadingDon’t count on your HOA to enforce nuisance rules→

Andrea’s HOA battle is over. What now?

Posted on by
Red Rose closeup

By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities Some of my readers know that, on January 31, advocates for rights of HOA residents lost another voice. Andrea Barnes died at the age of 46, leaving behind her husband, her parents, three children, other family members and friends. Andrea’s HOA dispute began in connection with her diagnosis of Meniere’s Disease, a disorder of the inner ear that causes problems with balance, constant ringing in the ears, and unpredictable Continue ReadingAndrea’s HOA battle is over. What now?→

HOA sues homeowner over 6-ft fence around his pool

Posted on by
Swimming-pool-feet-in-water

By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities HOA lawsuits often arise from petty rules. And sometimes HOA rules defy common sense and threaten public safety. That’s the case for Murray Randall from Wentzville, Missouri. Randall lives in Peine Lakes Estates, where he owns a spacious home with a backyard swimming pool, surrounded by a six-foot tall vinyl fence. Peine Lakes HOA requires approval for all exterior improvements, including installation of fences. The problem is, Randall decided Continue ReadingHOA sues homeowner over 6-ft fence around his pool→