Kuester Management Group Shares Tips for Handling HOA Neighbor Disputes

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Oct. 25, 2017 - PRLog -- The HOA board and property manager are responsible for overseeing the overall well-being of the community. This means ensuring that common areas are kept up, budgets are effectively managed, rules are enforced, and the community is safe and enjoyable for all. But HOA communities are fluid and people move in and out all the time. Neighbor disputes are inevitable. Kuester Management Group has released a statement to the press with insight on ways HOAs can address disagreements.

"We often don't have the option of choosing our neighbors, and sometimes disagreements arise," says Bryan Kuester, President of Kuester Management Group. "What a new neighbor finds irritating, the old neighbor may not have minded. While many people call the HOA to complain, it is not always the board's responsibility to step in if no rules have been violated. Sometimes it is up to neighbors to work out their differences."

The Association must determine if the complaint is due to an annoyance or an actual violation of the rules, says Kuester. If it is an annoyance, the board can encourage homeowners to try to work things out on their own. A neighbor may not even realize what they're doing is causing a problem. They may not think their music is that loud or that their dog barks that much. Having a civil conversation and making them aware of the issue can help to curb problems.

If it is a violation of the rules, the HOA can issue a warning or citation. This can also make homeowners more aware that there is a problem. If the problem persists, the HOA will be more involved as they enforce the rules. Being proactive by addressing the problem with the homeowner prior to reporting it can help reduce ill-will between neighbors.

"If neighbors are unable to come to a mutual agreement, they may ask the HOA to assist with mediation," says Kuester. "Some associations have a mediator they use or have a mediation committee. They can arrange for a neutral location in which homeowners can discuss their differences and try to come to a mutually agreeable solution. Some municipalities also offer mediation services to assist with neighbor disputes."

It is often better if homeowners can work out disagreements between themselves before bringing in law enforcement or the HOA. This can escalate problems and ill-will between neighbors. However, if nothing else has worked, it may be necessary to take more aggressive action.

The HOA can help to keep disputes at a minimum by consistently enforcing rules and reminding homeowners of expectations. Holding events to build a strong sense of community and encouraging neighbors to get to know one another can also reduce issues.

If problems persist, homeowners can turn to their HOA for guidance on how to tackle these issues. Community managers can also be a resource for support and advice. Kuester (http://www.kuester.com) partners with HOAs throughout North and South Carolina to promote more peaceable and well-run communities.

ABOUT:

Kuester Management Group, a division of Kuester Companies, works to protect property values and enhance the quality of life in each of its managed communities. Providing a full range of association management services, Kuester Management Group has worked to foster strong, resilient, and unified communities across North and South Carolina. The company is proud to offer on-site property managers, all zealous for building strong communities meant to stand the test of time. More information is available at www.kuester.com or @KuesterCompany.