How to Handle an HOA Dispute

How to Handle HOA and Disputes with your Neighbors Without Destroying Relationships

Disputes are an inevitable part of community living, whether they arise between neighbors or between homeowners and the HOA board. The key to handling these conflicts lies in communication, understanding, and resolution-focused strategies. A well-managed HOA fosters strong relationships between residents by providing structure and fairness in addressing disputes. But if that’s not the case, and you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure what step to take with disputes, here’s how you can manage disagreements while preserving relationships in your community.

Disputes are a natural part of living within an HOA Community, but how they’re handled makes all the difference.

1. Managing a Dispute with a Neighbor

Conflicts between neighbors can arise over a variety of issues, such as noise levels, property boundaries, or shared spaces. When these situations occur, following a structured approach can prevent small disagreements from turning into lasting feuds.

Step 1: Direct & Respectful Communication

• Before escalating an issue, have a calm, in-person conversation with your neighbor.

• Use “I” statements to express concerns (e.g., "I’ve noticed the noise levels at night are higher than usual, and it’s been difficult to sleep."), don’t accuse your neighbor of something you suspect but don’t know. Approach your conversations with curiosity first.

• Assume positive intent and give your neighbor a chance to respond.

• Make sure you’re as calm as possible during all interactions with your neighbor. There’s nothing like a home-related dispute to bring out the worst in many of us, so keeping that in mind, do whatever you can to diffuse the tension before communicating. For example, taking several deep breaths, going on a long walk and last but not least, focusing on your desired outcome while putting it all into perspective.

Step 2. Involve the HOA Management Company

• If the dispute isn’t resolved privately, consult your HOA’s community guidelines to understand any applicable rules.

• The HOA Board, or the HOA Community Management Company can send a neutral notice about community rules, avoiding direct confrontation.

Step 3: Seek Mediation Before Legal Action

• If tensions remain high, consider third-party mediation rather than resorting to legal action.

• Many HOA management companies offer dispute resolution services to facilitate fair discussions.

2. Managing a Dispute with the HOA Board

Disagreements between homeowners and the HOA board often stem from rule enforcement, fee structures, or decision-making transparency. Handling these issues effectively ensures that all voices are heard without jeopardizing community relationships.

Step 1: Understand the HOA Rules & Governing Documents

• Review your HOA’s bylaws, CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions), and meeting minutes to understand the basis of the board’s decision.

• Many conflicts arise due to misunderstandings rather than unfair policies.

Step 2: Attend Board Meetings & Voice Concerns Professionally

• Participate in HOA board meetings to present concerns in a public, yet professional, setting.

• Come prepared with facts, solutions, and alternative perspectives, rather than just grievances.

• Engage respectfully and constructively—HOA boards are often made up of fellow homeowners volunteering their time.

Step 3: Submit a Formal Written Request

• If informal discussion doesn’t yield results, submit a formal complaint or request for reconsideration in writing.

• Keep the tone professional, solution-oriented, and based on policy rather than emotion.

Step 4: Utilize Mediation or Arbitration

• If tensions escalate, neutral third-party mediation can help find a compromise.

• Some disputes may qualify for arbitration or legal resolution if governing documents allow.

Best Practices for Avoiding Future Disputes

The best way to manage disputes is to prevent them from occurring in the first place by fostering a culture of communication, fairness, and proactive problem-solving.

Encourage Community Engagement

• A well-connected neighborhood experiences fewer disputes. Encourage community events and HOA-led discussions.

• Regularly scheduled town halls or newsletters can keep homeowners informed and engaged.

Maintain Clear HOA Policies & Fair Enforcement

• HOA management companies should ensure that rules are transparent, consistently applied, and clearly communicated to all residents.

• Homeowners should stay informed about HOA regulations to avoid unintentional violations.

Promote Respect & Understanding

• At the heart of every resolution is a commitment to respect and empathy.

• Remember that the ultimate goal is to create a harmonious living environment for everyone in the community.

Disputes are a natural part of living within an HOA Community, but how they’re handled makes all the difference. By approaching conflicts with a solution-focused mindset, maintaining open lines of communication, and involving the HOA management company when needed, you can resolve disputes without damaging relationships.

At Five Keys, we believe in fostering communities built on cooperation and mutual respect. Whether you’re dealing with a neighborly disagreement or an HOA board concern, handling disputes professionally and fairly helps maintain a strong and supportive neighborhood.

Would you like to discuss how a proactive HOA management company can help your community avoid unnecessary conflicts? Reach out to Five Keys today!