Condo Owners Must Stay Informed About the Rules

Robert Bruss’ response to the question about the lien recorded against a condo owner for a missed payment (“Real Estate Q&A;,” Jan. 2) may be compassionate but is uninformed.

The practice of law in the area of common-interest developments, governed by the Davis-Stirling Act and other statutes, has become a specialized area.

The letter writer stated that her mother received a late notice but didn’t know what it meant. It is her obligation as an owner of a unit in a common-interest development to know and understand the rules governing the association.

If she didn’t understand what the notice said, it was her obligation to inquire.

The association’s governing documents (the covenants, bylaws and any subsequent amendments and additions) and the Davis-Stirling Act provide for dispute resolution between associations and homeowners.

Each homeowner must be provided annually with a written delinquent assessment collection policy and an outline of the steps to be taken in the event of a dispute.

None of it is complicated. It is important to stay informed. Homeowners do have rights, but they also have obligations.

STEPHANY YABLOW

CondoConsultants

Sherman Oaks