Helpful Hints in Dealing with Non-Compliance

Folks who don't comply with Homeowner Restrictions can be frustrating.

Sometimes it may be an issue of inability -- health issues that prevent someone from mowing their grass as often as they use to. These instances are best addressed with a little tact and perhaps a dose of TLC.

In other instances, it is in blatant defiance. The neighbor in question may feel as though they are above the law, or perhaps are not well-versed in the doctorine of "majority-rule" on which this great nation was founded. Short of telling the neignbor in question "If you don't like the rules of the neighborhood, then leave the neighborhood," here are some suggestions to address the problem:

1) First: before you level a complaint against your neighbor, be sure you are compliant with the rules of the 'hood.


2) Second: Have you brought the matter to their attention? A phone call? A friendly conversation in passing? "Oh, did you realize that x goes against HOA guidelines?" Sometimes it is truly a matter of not knowing.

* Now, sometimes that friendly conversation can go south real quick. Instead of getting into a yelling match with the offender, get out of the situation. No one in the history of the world has ever changed their ways from being yelled out. Sure, you might get a short-lived change. But to get that permanent change, that person has to realize the opportunity to resolve the matter is theirs, and that they alone have the power and responsibility to affect change.

3) Third Enlist other neighbors on the street: Are you the only one bothered by the issue? Here is the opportunity to validate your complaint. Are others on your street willing to go with you to talk to the neighbor? Are they willing to go on record to the Board to support the complaint? This would only help add weight to your cause. Talk to your neighbors to be sure they are on board. After all, you know your neighbors better than any one else on your block.

4) Fourth: A written complaint to the Board. Tried #2 to no avail? It is time to put thought to paper. Beyond a phone call or conversation to a Board Member, having a written record of the complaint goes far beyond. It is a historical document that can be referenced in cases that warrant further action including legal action, if necessary. Better yet: Get others on your street to add their name to the complaint.

*This 2011-2012 Board will not divulge your name as the complaintant to the neighbor in question, unless you request it. But, we can show the neighbor in question that, "See, this is not the Board ganging up on you. These are real people on your block that are encouraging you to fix the problem."

5) Join the Brookshire HOA: We have an open seat. We welcome the help.

Seven members cannot affectively serve the needs of 85 homes without the support of the majority of the homeowners. Take control of your neighborhood. Look for ways you can help. Look for ways you can take an active part. Connect with your neighbors. Beyond paying dues, take an active role in voting measures, upkeep projects and neighborhood events.

Look for more ways to connect to your neighborhood in the coming weeks.