Can an HOA Make Exceptions to Rules?

You know we have rules to preserve the appearance of the community, protect the value of our common property and our individual homes, and make our neighborhood more harmonious for all. What you may not know is that in some rare instances, the association will waive some rules and regulations.

It’s not a decision the board takes lightly. There’s a fine line between upholding the rules and being flexible as times change and individual issues arise.

If an owner comes to the board and asks us to waive a rule, we consider the individual circumstances, the priorities of fellow owners, whether a precedent is being set and how we’ll document the waiver. The board will carefully review how the rules and restrictions are written and whether there’s any flexibility. The association has to be very careful about granting waivers so that they don’t set off a domino effect.

Some things, like assessments, will never be up for negotiation. The board may approve payment plans or waive late fees and interest depending on the circumstances, but owners must always pay their share of common expenses.

In general though, we understand the need to be flexible when circumstances warrant. We all live in this living, breathing, changing community, and issues aren’t always black and white. If you think the association should waive or relax a rule, come chat with board members or the manager. We’ll let you know whether it’s something we’ll consider.