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Mediations in the Community

Mediation is one of the most effective ways to deal with disagreements with neighbors. It certainly has advantages over calling the police or suing, given that you will possibly be living in close proximity for years to come.

Types of Community/Neighborhood Mediations

Homeowner Associations

A Homeowner Association (HOA) is an organization that manages a residential community, such as a neighborhood or condominium complex, on behalf of its residents. A board of directors typically governs the HOA, composed of elected residents, and is responsible for enforcing rules and regulations, maintaining common areas, and collecting dues from residents.

See below for more information.

Townships

It can be challenging navigating township rules.  Mediation can help bring clarity and find a solution for all parties.  

Some common topics for township mediations are:

  • Blight

  • Taxes

  • Property/Boundary Issues

  • Permitting/Zoning 

  • Neighbor/Neighborhood Concerns

  • Noise Complaints

Neighborhood

Do you and your neighbor share a fence line, driveway, or lake access? Do you need help talking about the expectations you each have or the expenses involved with maintaining a shared resource?

Having trouble with a pet disturbance? Barking dogs, dogs running loose, rooster/chicken mayhem?

Mediation can help!

Homeowner Associations

Some common HOA problems include:

  • Disagreements over rules and regulations: HOAs enforce a set of rules and regulations that all residents must abide by. However, disagreements can arise between residents and the HOA board over these rules, including issues related to noise, parking, or pet ownership, paint colors, storage sheds/garages, fences, and more.

  • Dues and assessments: HOAs collect dues and assessments from residents to cover the cost of maintaining common areas and amenities. Problems may arise when residents become unhappy with the amount they are paying or how the money is being spent.

  • Management issues: Poor management by the board can lead to a host of HOA issues, including mismanagement of funds, lack of transparency, and unresponsiveness to resident concerns.

  • Maintenance and repair issues: HOAs are responsible for maintaining and repairing common areas, but delays or poor work can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction among residents.

  • Enforcement issues: Some residents may violate HOA rules, leading the HOA to take action and enforce these rules. However, unequal or unfair enforcement can lead to complaints and dissatisfaction among residents.

What can you do? First review your Homeowners Association Rules and Handbook or Bylaws or Procedures, secondly attend Board Meetings or request a meeting, thirdly we can help either by setting up a mediator or assisting a Board Meeting by having a neutral Facilitator present. A Facilitator will ensure everyone has a voice, there is a better understanding and concerns or points are documented for further discussion. 

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