HOA violations are among the most frequent challenges that boards must manage in their communities. These issues can disrupt harmony, reduce property values, and lead to conflict if left unchecked. To maintain standards and protect shared interests, HOA boards must take a proactive approach. Understanding the most common violations and how to reduce them is a good place to start.
What are HOA Violations?
Homeowners’ association violations occur when residents fail to comply with the community’s governing documents. These documents include the CC&Rs, bylaws, and rules and regulations. The purpose of these rules is to maintain property values, safety, and neighborhood aesthetics.
Common violations include unapproved changes to homes, excessive noise, and improper waste disposal. Boards must consistently enforce these rules to ensure fairness and preserve the community’s quality of life.
Most Common HOA Violations and How to Reduce Them
An HOA violation can be minor or significant, but when left unaddressed, even a minor issue can escalate into a more serious problem. The board’s role is to educate, communicate, and enforce in a way that prevents repeat offenses.
Here are the top HOA violations and how the board can mitigate them.
1. Exterior Changes
Homeowners often want to update their property with new paint colors, roofs, or windows, but many forget to get approval first. Unauthorized changes to the exterior can conflict with community standards and disrupt uniformity.
To reduce these violations, boards should educate residents about the architectural review process. Regular reminders in newsletters and at meetings help. Boards should also make the application process clear and easy to follow.
2. Landscaping
Overgrown lawns, dead plants, or unapproved tree removal are common landscaping violations. These issues can impact curb appeal and property values.
The board can reduce landscaping violations by offering clear landscaping guidelines and sending seasonal reminders. Some communities provide landscaping checklists or host volunteer days to help with upkeep. Consistent enforcement can also send a message that rules apply equally to everyone.
3. Vehicles and Parking
Parking in restricted areas, abandoning cars, or using guest spots for an extended period can lead to serious disputes. These violations can block emergency access or create visual clutter.
Associations can post clear signs around the community and mark designated areas with paint. Boards should also work with towing providers or security to enforce parking rules. Communication helps, too. Remind residents of rules during holidays or events when extra vehicles are expected.
4. Fencing
Unapproved fence installations, changes in height, and materials that do not comply with guidelines can lead to complaints. Fence rules exist to maintain sightlines, safety, and neighborhood consistency.
To prevent fencing issues, the board should ensure the architectural guidelines clearly explain what is allowed. Fast responses to architectural requests also encourage compliance. When delays happen, homeowners may proceed without approval.
5. Noise 
Loud music, barking dogs, or late-night parties can disturb neighbors. While some noise is expected, repeated disruptions reduce residents’ enjoyment of their homes.
To manage noise complaints, boards can adopt quiet hours and clearly communicate these rules. Boards should also encourage neighbors to speak with each other before reporting issues. When necessary, the board can step in with formal warnings or fines.
6. Rentals
Unauthorized short-term rentals or long-term leases that violate the rules can harm a community. They may lead to increased wear and tear or safety concerns.
The board should make the rental policy widely available and include it in welcome packets. Boards can also request copies of lease agreements or maintain a rental cap. By enforcing violations quickly, the association can deter others from breaking the rules.
7. Trash and Recycling
Leaving bins out too long, failing to use the proper containers, or not disposing of waste correctly are all trash-related HOA violations. These can lead to pest problems or a messy community.
To reduce violations, the board should post collection schedules and provide clear instructions for disposing of trash and recycling. Some HOAs also offer bulk pick-up days or partner with local waste services for educational purposes.
8. Exterior Storage
Storing items like kayaks, ladders, or grills on porches, balconies, or lawns can make the community look cluttered. Many associations restrict where and how outdoor items are stored.
Boards should remind homeowners of the storage rules often. Photos in newsletters showing proper storage can also be effective. For repeat offenders, a formal warning may be followed by a fine.
9. Holiday Decorations
While decorations can bring joy, issues arise when residents leave them up too long or use distracting features like flashing lights or inflatable displays.
The board should adopt seasonal decoration policies that specify start and removal dates. Include rules for lights, sound, and placement. A friendly reminder before each holiday season goes a long way.
10. Pets 
Pet violations include failing to pick up waste, violating leash rules, and having unauthorized animals. These issues can cause health concerns or tension among neighbors.
To reduce pet HOA violations, the board can place waste stations around the property and post leash reminders. Some associations require pet registration, which helps enforce limits and track issues.
11. Social Gatherings
Large gatherings can lead to noise, trash, and parking problems. If guests break the rules, the homeowner may still be held responsible.
Boards should create guidelines for hosting events in shared spaces or homes. These can include time limits, capacity rules, and cleanup expectations. Clear signage in community areas can also help prevent misuse.
12. Commercial Use
Running a visible or disruptive business from a home may violate zoning laws or HOA rules. These activities can increase traffic or cause nuisances.
The board should clearly define what types of home-based businesses are allowed. If a particular business activity is prohibited, the board must closely monitor it and take prompt action when violations occur. Enforcement should include a written notice and an opportunity for the respondent to respond.
How to Address HOA Violations
Handling violations fairly and consistently will protect the board from claims of bias and maintain harmonious community relations. The process typically begins with a violation notice, followed by an opportunity to be heard. After that, the HOA board can decide on a penalty (if warranted).
1. HOA Violation Letter or HOA Citation
The first step in enforcement is often a written warning or citation. This letter should include the specific rule, details of the violation, and instructions on how to correct the issue.
The tone should be respectful. Avoid accusatory language and provide a deadline for correction. Boards should also keep records of all notices for future reference.
2. Opportunity to be Heard
Before any fine or penalty is imposed, homeowners must be given the chance to share their side. This step ensures due process and fairness.
Boards should invite homeowners to a hearing and allow them to present evidence or explanations in support of their claims. After the hearing, the board can decide whether to enforce the fine, issue a warning, or drop the case.
Most states require HOAs to offer this step. In North Carolina, Section 47F-3-107.1 specifically states that association boards must provide homeowners with an opportunity to be heard before issuing a penalty.
3. HOA Violation Fines
When warnings and hearings don’t resolve the issue, fines may soon follow. These fines should be reasonable and listed in the governing documents.
Fines should also increase with each repeat violation. For example, a first offense may result in a warning, while a third offense may lead to a fine. The amount can also vary depending on the severity of the violation. For example, a violatioh that jeopardizes the health and safety of residents should naturally carry a heftier fine.
4. Suspension of Privilege
Another way to penalize violations is to suspend member privileges. This includes access to amenities and services as well as voting rights. Whether or not an HOA can use this penalty depends on state laws and the governing documents.
5. Liens and Foreclosure
Some associations can place liens when unpaid fines accumulate. Liens can lead to foreclosure. That said, it ultimately depends on state laws and the governing documents. In select states, the law explicitly prohibits associations from issuing liens that consist solely of fines.
Reporting HOA Violations
Encouraging residents to report violations will help create a shared sense of responsibility. But, without structure, it can also lead to conflict or false claims.
First, the board should create a transparent reporting process. This could include a secure online form, an email address, or a reporting hotline. Require details such as date, time, and location. Anonymous reporting may also help some residents speak up.
Boards should then investigate all reports fairly and refrain from taking action without sufficient proof. It helps to create a checklist for common violations, ensuring consistent responses.
The Right Balance
HOA violations can disrupt community harmony, but strong communication and fair enforcement make a difference. By staying proactive, boards can reduce rule-breaking and build trust among homeowners. A balanced approach keeps the community running smoothly.
Clark Simson Miller offers remote HOA management services to communities across the nation. Call us today at 865.315.7505 or email us at help@csmhoa.com to get started!
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