Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) Division of Real Estate (DRE) HOA Center conducted a survey from August 2023 to April 2024 collecting data from homeowners and persons working professionally in the community association industry. This survey was launched in conjunction with coordination of the HOA Homeowners' Rights Task Force authorized by 2023 HB23-1105. View the Task Force final report.
Summary of the most Significant Concerns and Complaints in Survey Responses
These concerns highlight the need for improved communication, transparency, and accountability, as well as potential areas for legislative and regulatory reform for condos and HOAs (colloquially "HOAs" for purposes of this survey).
Board of Directors
Lack of communication and transparency: This includes failure to share financial information, lack of notice for meetings, and general unresponsiveness to homeowner inquiries.
Selective enforcement of rules and policies: Homeowners perceive unfair treatment, with rules applied differently to different owners.
Failure to follow governing documents and state laws: Boards accused of not adhering to bylaws, CCIOAs, and other regulations, leading to homeowner frustration and legal disputes.
Board member competence and behavior: Concerns about board members' qualifications, lack of understanding of HOA operations, and unprofessional conduct, such as bullying and harassment.
Financial mismanagement: This includes improper use of funds, inadequate reserve funding, and failure to provide budgets or explain fee increases.
Lack of homeowner input and voice: Homeowners feel excluded from decision-making processes and that their concerns are not heard or addressed.
Management Company
Poor communication and responsiveness: Management companies are often unresponsive to homeowner inquiries and fail to provide timely updates or information.
Lack of knowledge and competence: Homeowners question the qualifications and abilities of management company staff, citing lack of understanding of governing documents and state laws.
Failure to perform duties and enforce rules: Management companies are accused of neglecting maintenance, not enforcing covenants, and mishandling paperwork.
Other
Rising costs of insurance and services: Homeowners are frustrated with increasing HOA fees and special assessments, often attributed to rising insurance premiums and other costs.
State legislation impacts: Some homeowners feel that recent state laws have made HOA operations more difficult and costly, while others appreciate the increased homeowner protections.
Difficulty resolving disputes: Homeowners find it challenging to address grievances with their HOAs, often resorting to legal action due to lack of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.