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We Fight to Make Sure Your HOA Works For You

A good homeowners’ association (or condominium association) can play an important role in maintaining your property values and ensuring your quiet enjoyment of your property. A bad HOA can decrease the value of your home, force you to spend a lot of money, and turn your life upside down. Good HOAs are priceless; bad ones can be a nightmare for a homeowner. If you feel your rights are being violated by your HOA or a neighbor living in your HOA, LS Carlson Law can help.

For more than 15 years, LS Carlson Law has helped homeowners across the country exercise their rights and stand up to negligent or abusive homeowner/community associations. We pioneered the successful legal strategies that many have tried to replicate, however, no law firm in the country has more experience or won more HOA-related cases.

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At LS Carlson Law, we understand the importance of a well-maintained community in upholding property values and ensuring the well-being of homeowners. When a Homeowners' Association (HOA) fails to fulfill its duty to maintain common areas, it can lead to disputes and challenges within the community. Our legal team is dedicated to advocating for your right to a well-kept environment and addressing issues related to HOA failure to maintain.

Navigating HOA Failure to Maintain Issues:

  1. The Essential Role of HOA Maintenance:
    The proper maintenance of common areas by the HOA is crucial for the overall aesthetics, functionality, and property values within the community. When maintenance lapses occur, homeowners may face various challenges.

  2. Identifying Failure to Maintain Issues:
    HOA failure to maintain can manifest in various ways, including:

  • Neglected landscaping leading to overgrown plants, dead foliage, or untrimmed trees.
  • Delayed or insufficient repairs to community structures, such as walkways, fences, or amenities.
  • Inadequate upkeep of essential infrastructure, such as lighting, drainage systems, or roadways.
  • Failure to address potential safety hazards, such as damaged pathways or poorly maintained recreational areas.
  1. Legal Implications and Homeowner Rights:
    Homeowners have the right to live in a community where the HOA fulfills its duty to maintain common areas. The failure to do so may have legal implications, and understanding the rights outlined in the CC&Rs and applicable laws is crucial.

  2. Your Advocate in HOA Failure to Maintain Disputes:
    LS Carlson Law serves as your advocate in addressing HOA failure to maintain disputes. We have over 15 years of experience in holding HOAs accountable, ensuring that necessary maintenance and repairs are carried out to preserve the integrity and value of your property.

  3. Strategies for Resolution:
    Our legal team employs effective strategies for resolving HOA failure to maintain issues, including negotiation, mediation, or legal action when necessary. We are committed to finding timely and practical solutions to address maintenance concerns within your community.

If you are facing challenges due to HOA failure to maintain common areas, contact LS Carlson Law for legal assistance. We are dedicated to preserving the well-being and property values of homeowners by ensuring that HOAs fulfill their maintenance obligations.

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At LS Carlson Law, we recognize the critical role that Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&R) play in maintaining the aesthetics, property values, and overall harmony within a community. When Homeowners' Associations (HOAs) fail to enforce CC&R or do so unfairly, it can lead to disputes among homeowners. Our legal team is dedicated to upholding the integrity of CC&R, advocating for fair enforcement, and addressing issues related to HOA CC&R violations.

Navigating HOA CC&R Violations:

  1. The Significance of CC&R in Community Living:
    CC&R serves as the guiding framework that outlines the rights and responsibilities of homeowners within an association. They address issues ranging from architectural guidelines to community aesthetics, contributing to a harmonious living environment.

  2. Identifying CC&R Violations:
    HOA CC&R violations can take various forms, including:

  • Unauthorized modifications to property structures or landscaping.
  • Violations of architectural guidelines impacting the uniformity of the community.
  • Failure to adhere to rules governing property use, such as home-based businesses or rental restrictions.
  • Disputes over aesthetic elements, such as outdoor decorations or color schemes.
  1. Legal Standards for Fair Enforcement:
    HOAs have a responsibility to enforce CC&R in a manner that is fair, consistent, and not arbitrary. Understanding the legal standards is crucial when addressing CC&R violations.

  2. Your Advocate in HOA CC&R Violations:
    LS Carlson Law serves as your advocate in addressing HOA CC&R violations. We have over 15 years of experience in ensuring that the enforcement of CC&R is fair, transparent, and aligns with the best interests of the community.

  3. Strategies for Resolution:
    Our legal team employs effective strategies for resolving HOA CC&R violations, including negotiation, mediation, or legal action when necessary. We are committed to finding practical and fair solutions that preserve the harmony and integrity of your community.

If you are dealing with HOA CC&R violations affecting your property or community, contact LS Carlson Law for legal assistance. We are dedicated to upholding the principles of fair enforcement, protecting your rights as a homeowner, and promoting the overall well-being of the community.

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At LS Carlson Law, we firmly believe that every homeowner deserves to live in an inclusive and respectful community free from harassment or discrimination. Unfortunately, instances of harassment or discriminatory practices within Homeowners' Associations (HOAs) can disrupt the harmony of a community. Our legal team is committed to addressing these issues, advocating for fair treatment, and fostering an environment where all homeowners feel welcome.

Navigating HOA Harassment and Discrimination:

  1. The Importance of Inclusive Communities:

Inclusivity is the cornerstone of a thriving community. HOAs play a crucial role in fostering an environment where all homeowners are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background, identity, or personal characteristics.

  1. Identifying Harassment and Discrimination:
    HOA harassment and discrimination can take various forms, including:
  • Verbal or written harassment targeting a homeowner based on their race, gender, religion, or other protected characteristics.
  • Unfair treatment or exclusion from community activities based on personal attributes.
  • Retaliation against homeowners for raising concerns about discriminatory practices.
  • Inappropriate demands or conditions imposed on homeowners based on their identity.
  1. Legal Protections Against Harassment and Discrimination:
    Homeowners are protected by anti-discrimination laws, and understanding these legal protections is crucial when addressing harassment and discrimination within an HOA. The Fair Housing Act and other relevant laws prohibit discriminatory practices in housing communities.

  2. Your Advocate Against Harassment and Discrimination:
    LS Carlson Law serves as your advocate in addressing HOA harassment and discrimination issues. We specialize in holding HOAs accountable for fostering an inclusive community and ensuring fair treatment for all homeowners.

  3. Strategies for Resolution:
    Our legal team employs effective strategies for resolving HOA harassment and discrimination issues, including negotiation, mediation, or legal action when necessary. We are committed to creating a community where all homeowners feel respected, valued, and free from discriminatory practices.

If you are experiencing harassment or discrimination within your HOA, contact LS Carlson Law for legal assistance. We are dedicated to upholding the principles of fairness, protecting your rights as a homeowner, and fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment within your community.

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At LS Carlson Law, we recognize that living in close quarters within an HOA community can sometimes lead to neighbor disputes. Resolving these conflicts harmoniously is preferable, but when intervention becomes necessary, understanding the nuances of authority is crucial. We proudly advocate for your rights to ensure equitable treatment and resolution.

Navigating the Complexities of Neighbor Disputes:

  1. Proximity and Challenges:

The close-knit nature of an HOA community often leads to proximity challenges, occasionally resulting in neighbor disputes. LS Carlson Law understands the unique dynamics and complexities that can arise.

  1. Distinct Examples of Potential Conflicts:
    Explore specific scenarios where disputes might occur:
  • Encroachment onto your property, such as a neighbor's tree branches hanging over your fence, blocking sunlight.
  • Unauthorized alterations to shared structures, like a neighbor modifying a common wall without approval.
  • Disputes over shared amenities, such as disagreements regarding the use of community spaces or shared facilities.
  1. Your Ally in Resolving Disputes:
    LS Carlson Law serves as your ally in addressing neighbor disputes. Whether it involves property boundaries, shared structures, or disagreements over community amenities, our legal team is committed to ensuring your rights are protected and a fair resolution is achieved.

We are dedicated to promoting harmony within your HOA community and providing effective legal solutions tailored to your unique circumstances.

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At LS Carlson Law, we recognize the integral role that well-maintained common areas play in fostering a sense of community and enhancing property values. Disputes over common areas within Homeowners' Associations (HOAs) can disrupt community harmony. Our legal team is dedicated to navigating the intricacies of common area disputes, advocating for fair resolutions, and preserving the overall well-being of your community.

Navigating HOA Common Area Disputes:

  1. The Heart of Community Living:
    Common areas serve as the communal heartbeat of an HOA, offering shared spaces and amenities that contribute to the quality of life for all homeowners. Disputes over these areas can impact the community's overall atmosphere.

  2. Identifying Common Area Disputes:
    HOA common area disputes can manifest in various ways, including:

  • Neglected maintenance leading to safety hazards or diminished aesthetics.
  • Disagreements over shared amenity usage, such as pools, parks, or recreational spaces.
  • Challenges related to the allocation of costs for common area repairs or improvements.
  • Disputes over exclusive use of common areas by certain homeowners.
  1. Legal Framework for Common Area Resolutions:
    Understanding the legal framework surrounding common areas, as outlined in the CC&R and relevant laws, is crucial when addressing disputes. It provides a foundation for fair and effective resolution strategies.

  2. Your Advocate in Common Area Disputes:
    LS Carlson Law serves as your advocate in addressing HOA common area disputes. We have over 16 years in finding equitable solutions that prioritize community harmony, ensuring the well-being of all homeowners.

  3. Strategies for Resolution:
    Our legal team employs effective strategies for resolving HOA common area disputes, including negotiation, mediation, or legal action when necessary. We are committed to preserving the shared spaces that make your community vibrant.

If you are facing challenges related to HOA common area disputes, contact LS Carlson Law for legal assistance. We are dedicated to upholding the principles of fair resolution, protecting the rights of homeowners, and fostering a harmonious living environment within your community.

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At LS Carlson Law, we are dedicated to fostering fairness and equality within your Homeowners' Association (HOA). Discrimination or targeting members for any reason is against the principles we uphold, and we are committed to ensuring that rules and regulations are consistently applied to all members.

Championing Equality in CC&R Enforcement:

  1. Upholding Legal Standards for Fairness:
    Your HOA is obligated to enforce CC&Rs without arbitrariness or capriciousness, following procedures that are uniformly applied (citing Liebler v. Point Loma Tennis Club (1995) 40 Cal.App.4th 1600, 1609, citing Nahrstedt v. Lakeside Village Condominium Assn. (1994) 8 Cal.4th 361, 383).

  2. Varied Examples of Unlawful Selective Enforcement:
    Examine unique scenarios illustrating potential selective enforcement disputes:

  • Allowing specific homeowners to park additional vehicles in violation of parking regulations while penalizing others for similar infractions.
  • Granting certain members exceptions to architectural guidelines for property modifications while denying the same to others.
  • Enforcing noise restrictions rigorously against one household while overlooking similar violations from neighboring homes.
  • Inconsistently applying landscape maintenance rules, penalizing some for minor infractions while neglecting severe violations by others.
  1. Your Advocate Against Injustice:

LS Carlson Law is your advocate against unjust selective enforcement practices. If you believe you are facing unequal treatment within your HOA, our legal team will vigorously address your concerns and work towards reinstating fairness and impartiality within the community.

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At LS Carlson Law, we recognize the importance of trust and accountability in your Homeowners' Association (HOA). Your commitment to your home and community should be met with an equal dedication from your HOA. Negligence in fulfilling its responsibilities not only jeopardizes your property but also erodes the foundation of a thriving community.

Understanding Negligence within Your HOA:

  1. Defining Negligence:
    Negligence is the failure to act reasonably in a given situation. When the actions of your HOA lead to damage to your property due to their unreasonable conduct, you may have grounds to file a claim for negligence.

  2. Unique Examples of Negligence Claims:
    Consider these distinct scenarios where you might have a valid negligence claim against your HOA:

  • Failure to address a hazardous tree within the community, which falls during a storm, causing damage to your property.
  • Inadequate security measures leading to a preventable break-in, causing property damage and loss for homeowners.
  • Ignoring necessary repairs to community infrastructure, such as faulty wiring, resulting in a fire that damages multiple homes.
  1. Advocating for Your Rights:
    At LS Carlson Law, we are committed to advocating for your property rights. If negligence on the part of your HOA has caused harm to your property in unique situations, our legal team is here to guide you through the process of filing a negligence claim and seeking appropriate remedies.

Don't let negligence compromise the well-being of your community. Contact LS Carlson Law for legal assistance in addressing negligence issues within your HOA and safeguarding your property investment. We are dedicated to ensuring that your HOA operates responsibly and maintains the trust of its members.

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At LS Carlson Law, we understand the vital role that fair and transparent elections play in maintaining the integrity of a Homeowners' Association (HOA). Unfortunately, instances of election fraud can undermine the democratic process within an HOA, compromising the voice of its members. Our firm is committed to upholding the principles of fairness, legality, and transparency in HOA elections.

Navigating HOA Election Fraud:

  1. The Importance of Fair Elections:
    HOA elections are the cornerstone of community governance, allowing members to elect representatives who will make crucial decisions on their behalf. Fair elections are essential to ensuring the legitimacy and effectiveness of the HOA.

  2. Identifying Election Fraud:
    Election fraud within HOAs may involve various deceptive practices, such as:

  • Forged ballots or signatures affecting the outcome of the election.
  • Intimidation or coercion tactics to influence votes.
  • Unauthorized access or manipulation of election-related documents.
  • Misrepresentation of candidate qualifications or endorsements.
  1. Legal Implications of Election Fraud:
    Election fraud in HOAs is not only a breach of trust but may also have legal consequences. Understanding the applicable laws is crucial in addressing and preventing election fraud.

  2. Your Advocate Against Election Fraud:
    LS Carlson Law is dedicated to being your advocate in cases of HOA election fraud. We have over 15 years of experience in investigating and addressing fraudulent activities, ensuring that the election process remains transparent, fair, and reflective of the community's true preferences.

  3. Strategies for Prevention and Resolution:
    Our legal team employs effective strategies to prevent and resolve election fraud issues within HOAs, including thorough investigations, legal actions, and advocacy for transparent election processes.

If you suspect or have evidence of election fraud within your HOA, contact LS Carlson Law forlegal assistance. We are committed to upholding the democratic values of your community and ensuring that HOA elections remain a fair and honest representation of the collective voice of its members.

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At LS Carlson Law, we recognize the growing importance of renewable energy, particularly solar power, in today's world. Homeowners are increasingly turning to solar solutions to reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs. However, disputes within Homeowners' Associations (HOAs) regarding solar installations can arise. We are here to champion your right to harness the power of the sun while navigating the legal complexities of HOA solar disputes.

Navigating Solar Energy Rights in HOAs:

  1. Embracing Renewable Energy:

The desire to adopt solar power is a commendable choice, contributing to environmental sustainability and reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. As a homeowner, you have the right to explore solar solutions for your property.

  1. Common Solar-Related Disputes:
  • HOA solar disputes can encompass various issues, including:
  • Restrictions on the type and design of solar panels allowed within the community.
  • Placement limitations, such as rules dictating where solar panels can be installed on your property.

Disputes over the aesthetic impact of solar installations on the community's appearance.

Issues related to potential shading caused by solar panels.

  1. Legal Protections for Solar Rights:
    California law provides certain protections for homeowners seeking to install solar energy systems. The Solar Rights Act (California Civil Code, §§ 714 and 714.1) prohibits unreasonable restrictions on solar energy system installations.

  2. Your Advocate in Solar Disputes:
    LS Carlson Law stands as your advocate in HOA solar disputes. Whether you are facing resistance in installing solar panels or encountering disagreements over the aesthetics and placement, our legal team is well-versed in navigating the intricate landscape of solar rights within HOAs.

  3. Resolving Solar Disputes Effectively:
    We are committed to finding practical and amicable solutions to HOA solar disputes, ensuring that your right to embrace renewable energy is upheld while maintaining the harmony within your community.

Frequently Asked Questions for HOA Disputes

Technically, yes, but it is so difficult that it is not realistic in practice. There are both legal and practical considerations that most homeowners have not considered. We wrote an article on this very topic that can be found below that dives deeper into the process in much greater detail however, in summary, homeowners should think carefully before trying to disband their homeowners association (“HOA”) and consult with an attorney before starting the process.

Receiving a violation notice from your Association can be an intimidating and confusing situation. However, there are multiple protections in place for property owners in Florida when it comes to association violations as well as proper notice required by the Association. Homeowners should review their association’s governing documents and enforcement process of an alleged violation. A challenge to the process can protect a homeowner's rights and property interests when appropriate. It can also protect members from a homeowners' association that has overstepped its bounds or has only selectively enforced various rules and regulations. If you ever receive a Notice of Violation, talk to one of our Association attorneys to learn more.

Our headquarters is located in Aliso Viejo, CA. We also have offices in San Diego, CA and Boca Raton, FL. For those who live outside the practical travel proximity to our offices, we understand you may have concerns about the distance between our law office and your home. However, we want to assure you that this should not be a concern when considering our firm to represent you in your HOA dispute. We have successfully represented hundreds of clients throughout the state and have proven procedures in place to ensure the process is smooth and painless regardless of where you live.

First, much of the communication and document exchange between our firm and clients can be done electronically, making distance less of an issue. We have a secure client portal where you can access all the important documents and communicate with us, so you won't have to worry about travel.

Second, the legal process of resolving HOA disputes often involves a significant amount of research and document review, which can be done remotely. Our firm has the resources and expertise necessary to effectively represent clients regardless of their location.

Finally, it's important to remember that what matters most in a legal dispute is the quality of representation, not the proximity of the law office. LS Carlson Law has extensive experience in representing homeowners in HOA disputes and has a proven track record of success. We have the knowledge and skills to effectively advocate for your rights and interests, regardless of where our office is located. In fact, no other firm in California or Florida has more experience or has prevailed in more HOA cases than LS Carlson Law.

In summary, while the location of our law office may be a concern for some, it should not be a deciding factor when considering LS Carlson Law to represent you in your HOA dispute. Our firm has the resources and expertise to effectively represent clients remotely, and what's most important is the quality of representation. Rest assured that we will do everything in our power to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome in your HOA dispute.

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A Professional Strike Force for Your HOA Disputes

LS Carlson Law is comprised of battle-tested, highly skilled lawyers who operate with a single objective – to win. We prioritize efficiency and innovative strategies, and in doing so, have waged war on the “old way of doing things.”

Kirk Pearson, Esq.

Partner

Phong Tran, Esq.

Partner

Jeffrey Kominsky, Esq.

Partner

David Lehr, Esq.

Partner

Ryan Davies, Esq.

Partner

Jessica Grau, Esq.

Senior Associate

Kevin Mueller, Esq.

Senior Associate

Joseph Sarnowski, Esq.

Senior Associate

Steven Shack, Esq.

Senior Associate

Michele Hobby, Esq.

Senior Associate

Linda Honey, Esq.

Senior Associate

Keith Lehman, Esq.

Senior Associate

Brian Park, Esq.

Senior Associate

Ahmet Brown, Esq.

Associate

Richard Canada, Esq.

Associate

Dana Castruita, Esq.

Associate

Shelby Daws, Esq.

Associate

Jayme Day, Esq.

Associate

Kevin Hirsh, Esq.

Associate

Jonathan Hodges, Esq.

Associate

Stephanie Reyes, Esq.

Associate

Irasema Rocha, Esq.

Associate

Shawheen Shafizadeh, Esq.

Associate

Nicholas Tomic, Esq.

Associate

Justin Walley, Esq.

Associate

Chris Xouleis, Esq.

Associate

Tell Us About Your HOA Dispute

When you hire LS Carlson Law, you can be assured you’ll be getting an aggressive firm fully dedicated to achieving your legal objectives. Don’t take our word for it, we encourage you to take a look at the numerous five-star client reviews. If you are ready to end the nightmare with your homeowner association, call us now or fill out the form to set an appointment.

Schedule a Consultation (949) 421-3030