What to Do If You Receive a Violation Notice from Your HOA
Receiving a notice from your Homeowners’ Association (HOA) or Condominium Association can be stressful, especially if you were not expecting it. Whether it is a reminder to trim overgrown landscaping, remove an unapproved structure, or correct a parking issue, understanding what to do next can help resolve the matter quickly and avoid further action.
If you live in a Washington State HOA or condo, here is what you need to know if a violation notice lands in your inbox or mailbox.
Read the Violation Notice Carefully
The first step is to read the notice thoroughly. Most violation letters will include:
- A description of the issue
- The date it was observed (often the date of the letter)
- A reference to the specific rule or section of your governing documents
- A deadline to resolve the issue
- Instructions for responding or appealing
Do not ignore the notice; treat it as an opportunity to clarify and correct the situation before it escalates.
Understand the Rule Being Cited
The notice should refer to a specific rule in your community’s Declaration, Rules and Regulations, or Architectural Guidelines. If you are unsure what the rule means or why it applies, review your documents or reach out to your Association Manager for clarification.
In Washington State, most Associations are required to follow due process when citing violations so understanding the rule can help you decide how to respond appropriately.
Assess the Situation Honestly
Ask yourself:
- Did the violation occur as described?
- Was it a misunderstanding or temporary situation?
- Could there be a valid reason for what happened (e.g., a contractor delayed your project, or you were unaware approval was needed)?
If you believe the notice is valid, move forward with correcting the issue by the stated deadline. If you disagree, you have the right to submit a written response or request a hearing.
Communicate with Your HOA
Do not let confusion turn into conflict. Most Boards and management companies are open to resolving violations through respectful communication. If you need more time or have extenuating circumstances, contact your Community Manager as soon as possible.
Washington Associations should provide a formal appeal process or hearing opportunity if you believe the violation was issued in error.
Correct the Issue Promptly (If Applicable)
If the violation is accurate and within your responsibility, taking action before the deadline shows good faith. This can help avoid fines, repeat notices, or escalation to legal enforcement.
Once resolved, consider sending photo confirmation or written notice to your Association Manager to ensure the matter is closed.
Stay Proactive to Avoid Future Issues
To prevent future violations:
- Review your Association’s rules periodically
- Submit architectural requests before starting exterior projects
- Ask your Manager if you are unsure whether something requires approval
- Stay informed by attending meetings and reading community updates
Being proactive supports a more positive relationship with your HOA and helps maintain property values for everyone.
Remember: The Goal Is Compliance, Not Conflict
Most violation notices are not personal; they are part of the Board’s duty to uphold the community’s standards fairly and consistently. A timely, respectful response helps resolve issues and keeps the community harmonious.
Trestle supports both Boards and Homeowners by promoting fair enforcement, Homeowner education, and accessible communication.
Have questions about a violation notice or your community’s rules? Visit us at Trestle Community Management, follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook., or call us at (425) 454-6404.
