Neighbor Disputes & Complaints
Constructive conflict is necessary in order to realize more harmony in our neighborhoods. Crazy as that sounds, most well run businesses will tell you they embrace vs. avoid conflict because conflict, when engaged in a constructive, respectful, non-personal way, can help organizations realize amazing outcomes that are creative, innovative and positive. Conflict when effectively undertaken makes an organization stronger. However, in our personal lives conflict can be scary. What will I be forced to compromise? What if my neighbor doesn’t respect my position? What if I’m unclear, or get emotional, or am wrong?! What if…?
If you call the HOA with a neighbor-to-neighbor dispute, we are always going to encourage you to try and work it out before the Community or Board may get involved. The outcome of seeking first to work with your neighbor to address general or subjective concerns will be far more powerful, lasting, and satisfying than if the HOA or Board gets involved as a referee or enforcer. Of course, we will handle specific concerns within the Community's scope of responsibility, but we will continually endeavor to develop the strength of the community by encouraging open and productive conversations across the backyard fence!
Six Strategies Towards Resolving a Conflict with Your Neighbor:
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Do not speak with your neighbor when you are upset.
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Be ready to listen to your neighbor’s viewpoint before expressing your own. If your neighbor feels heard and understood, he or she is more likely to listen to what you have to say.
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Help your neighbor feel heard and understood by restating what he or she said to you.
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Ask your neighbor to confirm that you understand before expressing your own perspective.
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Always speak from your experience using “I” instead of “you.” If you use the word “you,” your neighbor will have difficulty hearing you. It is okay to speak about your feelings using the “I” form.
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Once you and your neighbor feel that you understand one another, share your ideas for solving the problem. Explain what you are willing to do, now that you understand the situation.
Prior to submitting a complaint, please note the following:
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Anonymous complaints will not be accepted. Homeowners have the right to due process, which means that they have the right to know who submitted the complaint and a copy of the complaint.
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Complaints may need to be verified by a Board Member or Management.
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Some neighbor-to-neighbor disputes cannot be handled by the HOA or management.
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Please provide at least a picture if evidence by picture is possible.
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For noise complaints, we encourage you to contact local non-emergency law enforcement.
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If you feel threatened for your safety or for the safety of any member of your household, please contact local law enforcement.