Experienced in All Real Estate Matters

HOA Conflict Attorneys in Fairfax

Working to Resolve Disputes Between Homeowners and Associations

You might have purchased a home that sits in a community governed by a homeowner’s association (HOA). The role of the HOA is to make sure residents are abiding by the legal rules developed by the property owner. These rules are set up to ensure safety and a sense of uniformity in the community, and you should have been given a Declaration, of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) upon moving in so you would know what was expected of you. However, these rules are not static, and they can change after periodic HOA board meetings, and conflicts can occur between yourself and the HOA expectations.

If you’re having a dispute with your HOA, it’s important to have a knowledgeable lawyer on your side to guide you through the legal process. At Keithley Law, we have over 50 years of combined experience practicing law and have an in-depth understanding of the various legal issues that can arise between homeowners and HOAs. When you hire our team, you will have an advocate in your corner providing skilled legal advice and effective representation to help you through the matter.

Get started with your case today by calling us at (703) 454-5147.

Understanding Your HOA Rules

When you first move into a place that is governed by an HOA, it’s crucial to read the CC&Rs so you know what your obligations are as a resident and you understand what the property owner is responsible for.

There are various requirements and limitations set forth in this contract, which could include, but are not limited to:

  • Maintaining a well-manicured lawn
  • Parking your car in the garage and not in the street overnight
  • Refraining from building a fence around your property
  • Keeping the exterior of your home in good condition
  • Painting your house a certain color
  • Not owning a particular breed of dog

Penalties for Violating CC&Rs

In some cases, the expectations of you as a homeowner can be reasonable; however, in others, you might find that the CC&Rs and the HOA’s enforcement of them conflict with your personal beliefs or wishes. For instance, you might want to adopt a German Shepard, but the community rules prohibit owning large dogs. If you take in the new animal anyway, you might be penalized.

If you actively disregard a specific rule, you could violate your contract and be subject to penalties, such as:

  • A fine
  • Restricted from using common areas
  • Forced compliance
  • A lawsuit filed against you

As with the rules, some of the punishments may seem unfair, or they might be imposed for something that was not covered in your original contract. If you have a conflict with your HOA, you can try to work it out with the association first. You might have to attend a mediation hearing to see if a compromise could be made. However, some issues can’t be resolved during arbitration with the HOA, and need to be handled by an experienced attorney. That is where our Fairfax lawyers come in. We will review your contract, take the time to learn about the dispute, and answer any questions you might have. Our goal is to work toward an outcome focused on your best interests.

Get Skilled Legal Advocacy from Our Team Today!

If you feel your HOA is unfairly enforcing a rule or is trying to make you do (or refrain from doing something) that is not in your contract, seek legal help as soon as possible. At Keithley Law, we have extensive experience in tenant and real estate law, and we can provide insightful guidance from the beginning of your case to its end.

Discuss your legal options by calling us at (703) 454-5147, or schedule a consultation by filling out an online contact form.

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See What Our Clients Have to Say
  • “She understood the root of my problems and didn't just give me what I wanted to hear. Her knowledge and understanding of Family Law is clearly shown when talking to her.”

    Nat

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  • “Using her background and experience dealing with high-conflict people, she was aggressive when necessary and conciliatory when necessary.”

    Terrie

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  • “I can't say enough about my experience with the Keithley Law firm. During a very dark time, their professionalism and expertise was perfectly balanced with understanding and compassion.”

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    Regby

  • “After a great consultation I decided to have this law firm represent me and from that day forward my experience was top-tier.”

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  • “She is very honest and always is very forthright about any options you have as a client. I would recommend her to anyone. Top notch!”

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    Former Client

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